What Is Biodegradable Hydraulic Oil?

Biodegradable hydraulic oil is a readily available, non-toxic fluid designed, formulated anti-wear, ecologically responsive fluid for the purposes of marine, construction, high pressure industrial and mobile hydraulic systems. It’s also meant to work in circulating oil systems and turbines operating in areas that are environmentally friendly.

Biodegradable Hydraulic Oil – Application and use

Biodegradable hydraulic oils come in categories such as bio-based. These oils use soybean, sunflower or canola oil as the base oil. When subjected under certain conditions, the properties of these oils can be the same as those of mineral oil based and anti-wear hydraulic oils. However, as a result of limited testing, a good number of hydraulic component manufacturers advice their clients to lower the maximum permissible operating load while using these hydraulic fluids. By doing this, it will guarantee no reduction in the life of the hydraulic component.

There are initiatives like non-food uses intended for agricultural production and renewable energy have led to an increase in application of technology in field of bio-based fluids. When these fluids begin competing with mineral oils on performance and prices, it increases their usage and there will be an increased life span of the hydraulic component’s life.

Performance benefits of hydraulic fluids

  • The component’s life is extended
  • Their low temperature properties are quite good
  • They have good natural lubricity
  • Strong anti-wear protection
  • Their resistance to thermal degradation and oxidation is excellent
  • Rust and corrosion protection
  • Excellent demulsibility

Biodegradable lubricants: Complications, compatibility and conversion

Biodegradable lubricants are best applicable with equipment found in most industries. Basically, they are applicable where lubricants can be exposed to the environment. For instance, oil and gas exploration, maritime, mining and forestry.

Before you convert to using biodegradable fluids, its important that you take into account the lubricating system’s design and operating characteristics. Some of the factors that might come into play include;

  • Type of hose or sealing material used
  • Operating pressure, flow rates and temperature
  • Potential for contamination. For instance, dirt, water or dust