Blog

Choosing the Right Hydraulic Oil for Your Pump

May 10, 2023

Choosing the Right Hydraulic Oil for Your Pump: Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Operating Costs

When it comes to hydraulic pumps, selecting the right hydraulic oil is crucial for ensuring efficient operation and lower operating costs. Many people assume that any oil will work for their machines, but this isn’t the case. Choosing the wrong oil can drastically reduce the lifespan of your hydraulic pumps, causing significant damage and costs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to select the optimal hydraulic oil for your pump, the potential risks of using the wrong oil, and the benefits of using high-purity oils.

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that using the wrong oil can have significant consequences. If your oil is too thick, your system may work slower as it needs to work harder, while if your oil is too thin, you may cause wear and tear on moving components. Using the wrong oil can lead to decreased efficiency, lack of lubrication, corrosion and sludge, damage to seals, increased heat generation, and reduced component life.

To ensure optimal performance, consider using high-purity oils that strike a good balance between cost and lifespan. When selecting an oil, focus on two main things: viscosity grade and oil type. Viscosity is a measure of the liquid’s flowability, and you should select an oil that is thin enough to lubricate the moving parts without being forced out. The oil’s viscosity index (VI) is also crucial as it indicates the effect of temperature on the viscosity. For extreme temperature changes, choose an oil with a higher viscosity index.

Additionally, there are three main types of hydraulic oil: synthetic, mineral-based, and water-based. You should select an oil that is specially formulated for your hand pump. The oil should state on the packaging that it can be used with a hand-operated pump. Moreover, additives can help improve an oil’s performance by preventing metal-to-metal contact, oxidation, corrosion, and foam.

The risks of using the wrong hydraulic oil are substantial. A machine may run using a particular oil, but it doesn’t mean that oil is optimal for the application. If you use the wrong oil, you could drastically shorten the lifespan of your hydraulic pumps. Not only will this cause significant damage and costs, but it may also lead to decreased efficiency and reduced component life.

In conclusion, selecting the right hydraulic oil is essential for ensuring efficient operation and lower operating costs. Using the wrong oil can cause significant damage and costs, while using the right oil can improve efficiency and prolong the lifespan of your hydraulic pumps. When selecting an oil, focus on viscosity grade, oil type, and additives. Consider using high-purity oils that strike a good balance between cost and lifespan. By following these tips, you can ensure the optimal performance of your hydraulic pump, reduce operating costs, and increase efficiency.

The SPX 9639 and 9538 are standard hydraulic oils.

For dependable performance of all your hydraulic pumps and cylinders.
Contains foam suppressant additives and has a high viscosity index.

Flame-Out® 220 fire resistant hydraulic fluid*

Contains anti-rust, anti-foam and antisludge additives.
Provides fire resistant protection.
(Note: Will burn if heat source is extreme enough. Will not, however, propagate the flame and is self-extinguishing when there is no ignition source.)
Provides maximum lubrication and heat transfer.
Offers a wider operating temperature range.
No need to change seals in your Bolting Systems and Power Team equipment. Just drain the standard oil and replace it with Flame-Out® 220.

Low Temperature Oil

Provides smooth, reliable operation in the coldest climate conditions.

Biodegradable Hydraulic Fluid

Biodegradable, non-toxic fluid withstands moderate to severe operating conditions; provides excellent protection against rust.
Offers superior anti-wear properties, has excellent multi-metal compatibility.

Developed to meet stringent performance requirements and satisfy growing environmental needs for hydraulic fluids which are readily biodegradable and non-toxic. Can be used with all Bolting Systems and Power Team pumps, cylinders, valves and other accessories using standard seals. Depending on the contamination or degradation levels which might be present in used fluid, small amounts of this substance, if spilled, will not affect ground water or the environment. Acceptable methods of disposal include use as a fuel supplement.

Since this fluid will not typically be hazardous waste, additional disposal options may be available, including land farming or processing through sewage treatment facilities, if necessary approvals are obtained from appropriate regulatory authorities. This fluid has been tested against EPA 560/6-82-003 and OECD 301 for biodegradability, and toxicity has been tested against EPA 560/6-82-002 and OECD 203: 1-12. Not recommended for operation in temperatures below 20°F (-7°C) or above 160°F (71°C).

Recommended storage temperatures not below – 10°F (-23°C) or above 170°F (77°C).

About TJI Solutions.

Official Distributors Of SPX Bolting,
SPX Powerteam & Suppliers Of Norbar Products.

View our other Power Team Products

View the SPX Power Team Resources

View our other Norbar Products
View our other Power Team Products
Other SPX Power Team Resources

TJI Solutions specialise in the Sale, Hire and Repair of hydraulic torque and tensioning equipment along with hand, pneumatic and electric torque tooling.

With our extensive knowledge of the industry we are committed to customers supplying innovated solutions alongside commercial initiatives which are complimented by outstanding customer service 24/7 365 days a year. As a close knit family business, we are extremely proud of our moral values and commitment to take personal responsibility for your needs.