Selection of Fire Resistant Fluids (FRF) -Component and System Criteria

Development of fire-resistant fluids increased the safety aspect of hydraulic systems. Recently, the fluids which were originally developed only for application in fire-hazardous environments are finding widespread application in other less hazardous applications. This trend is due to the advantageous operational, environmental and economical attributes of some fire-resistant fluids in comparison to mineral oil-based fluids.

This paper reviews the guidelines for selecting a fluid on the basis of fluid/ component compatibility. The effect of the physical properties of various fire-resistant fluids on the dynamic behaviour of a system is discussed and illustrated.