The Importance of Hydraulic Fluid

02 June, 2010- Hydraulic fluids are one of the most important parts of a hydraulic machinery. These fluids are basically the power carriers for every hydraulic machinery. Generally, hydraulic fluids are either mineral oil based or water based. Hydraulic fluids are such an integral part of a hydraulic machinery that none of the hydraulic system or equipment can work without the use of requisite hydraulic fluid. Power steering systems, excavators, brakes, aircraft flight control systems are the various examples of hydraulic machineries or hydraulic fluids. It is found better for the hydraulic fluids if they have low compressibility.



The fundamental task of hydraulic fluids is to transfer power to the entire machinery, though in practical scenario, hydraulic fluids maintain various other aspects of a given hydraulic system. Below is a table depicting the various functions of a particular hydraulic fluid and the exclusive properties of the fluid which enables it to perform those particular functions.

Function	Property
Power carrier and controller	Swift air release Lesser compressibility Lesser tendency of foaming less amount of volatility
Heat transferring agent	Decent conductivity and better thermal capacity
Sealer	Shear Stability Enough Viscosity
Added Functions	Provides fire resistance Provides radiation resistance Allows friction modifications
Environment Friendly	Less toxic Biodegradable
Lubricator	Provides viscosity Provides thermal stability and oxidative stability Possesses antiwear traits controls corrosion Eases cleanliness and filterability
Functioning period	Compatibility with the material
Pump efficient	Curbs internal leakage by proper viscosity Has high viscosity index