Hydraulic oil for trucks is an incompressible fluid that is used to transmit power in hydraulic systems of trucks. It consists of oils and additives that transmit power while also serving as a lubricant and coolant. It is effective over a wide temperature range and reduces wear, rust and corrosion of equipment. Many machines use hydraulic systems, from heavy construction equipment to automotive braking systems. In this blog, NeonPolice will help you figure out what the different types of hydraulic oil are and how you can maximize the efficiency of your truck with these.
Types of Hydraulic Oil For Trucks
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Mineral Oil Based
These are probably the most popular hydraulic oils due to their comparatively low cost and exceptional lubricating properties. Since they have the presence of minerals that can undergo chemical reactions, they are more susceptible to oxidation and thermal decomposition and may not be suitable for high temperature applications.
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Synthetic Oil Based
These fluids are made from chemically modified compounds and have some advantages over the mineral oil based ones because they can resist oxidation and thermal degradation and are suitable for both high and low temperature applications.
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Water-Based
Water-based hydraulic fluids are a mixture of water and additives such as glycols or esters that result in fluids with additional properties. The additives ensure that you get good cooling properties and work well in high temperature systems. However, it is important to note that water-based hydraulic fluids are not suitable for systems that are susceptible to rust and corrosion.
Characteristic of Hydraulic Oil For Trucks
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Incompressibility
Hydraulic oil ensures efficient power transmission and allows hydraulic systems to produce precise and consistent mechanical movements which, in turn, prevents the hydraulic system from becoming spongy and ensures precise control.
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Viscosity Stability
Hydraulic systems often operate in conditions of both extreme heat and cold because of which they require oils that have stable viscosity and do not change too much in differentiating conditions. The stability of the oil’s viscosity ensures its lubricating and flow properties, ensures smooth operation and avoids damage to components.
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Fire-Resistant
Hydraulic systems may cause the oil to overheat due to friction or other factors. Hydraulic oil then reduces the risk of fire and protects personnel and machinery.
When to Change Hydraulic Oil for Trucks
It is very important to change the hydraulic oil for trucks in regular intervals to ensure that your hardware runs smoothly and safely for longer periods of time. However, it is also important to understand that each type of hydraulic oil requires different changing intervals.
Power steering fluid, brake fluid, etc. are hydraulic fluids that need to be checked regularly to detect any irregularities. Brake oils that work on hydraulic systems help in stopping vehicles when brakes are pressed. If the brake oil drops at a level lower than the prescribed limit, the system will be contaminated by moisture and the braking prowess will be rendered faulty. This in turn increases safety risks while operating, thus it is important to check and change it regularly every two years. The power steering fluid, on the other hand, needs to be changed every 30,000 miles on the odometer or every three years.
What’s further noteworthy is that your vehicle tells you when it is time to change the oils. The oil may change shades or viscosity depending on the contamination of deformities in vehicles. Some markers that you can look out for could be that the oil may not seem to be transparent or clear or turn reddish-brown. A burnt odor in the oil could also signal that the oil needs to be replaced at the earliest .
Difference Between Hydraulic Oil and Other Engine Oils
Hydraulic oil and motor oil are made from base oils with additives mixed in. Hydraulic oils are expected to have low compressibility, predictable friction and viscosity stability while engine oils are intended to have high resistance to heat, resistance to absorption of fuels and chemical compounds produced during combustion.
Hydraulic oil for trucks is specifically designed with a natural base oil and special additives to withstand the harsh temperatures, pressures and wear of processes. Motor oil without these properties deteriorates much faster and quickly becomes ineffective. This would damage the hydraulic system, resulting in costly repairs or, in the worst case, complete replacement of equipment and loss of investment.
How to Choose the Right Hydraulic Oil for Trucks
Here are some factors that you can look out for while choosing the right hydraulic oil for your trucks-
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Operating Temperature
It is vital that the oil must be able to withstand the high temperature created by operation and running. This includes both the ambient temperature and the heat generated by hydraulic systems.
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Viscosity
A higher viscosity will entail a thicker oil that will be difficult to pump, while a lower viscosity will guarantee a smooth flow and easy pumping. The viscosity, however, depends on the requirements of your hydraulic systems.
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Additives
Hydraulic oil for trucks is often infused with additives that are mixed to improve the effect of hydraulic oil that protect it from wear and corrosion. Remember to test your hydraulic oil regularly to ensure that it is still free from any contaminants and is running smoothly.
Companies usually sell different hydraulic oil for trucks to cater to the specific needs of each variation of automobiles. For instance, you can easily use PEMCO Hydro PM2102-20 Hydraulic Oil and FANFARO Hydro, ISO 46 FF2102-5 Hydraulic oil for Mercedes Benz.
Also Read – WHY ARE TRUCK ACCESSORIES IMPORTANT FOR VEHICLE OWNERS?
Conclusion
Hydraulic oil for trucks is a vital component for the smooth functioning of your vehicles. It is also crucial that you choose the right oils for your vehicles that are fully compatible with their hydraulic systems. Before going on that route, however, educate yourself with the right techniques to choose, maintain and replace the oils for optimum execution. Check out these hydraulic oils for trucks recommended by Neon Police on Autodoc and choose the right fit for your automobiles.
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