Biodegradable lubricants
September 1st 2006

Industry is facing a steadily increasing demand for improved profitability and efficiency. In the field of hydraulics, this has led to the design of systems which run at a higher pressure, with smaller pumps and oil reservoirs on both mobile and stationary equipment.

Under these severe conditions, the proper selection of hydraulic fluid is critical to ensure efficient equipment operation and adequate wear protection.

Viscosity is one of the most important selection criteria as it determines the efficiency of hydraulic pumps and motors, helping to prevent overheating and wear at high temperatures.

Hydraulic oils with viscosity improvers are not new to the market; however Fuchs UK says its new Plantosyn HVI 46 shows unprecedented performance levels against conventional fluids.

Two years ago, the Eden Project converted a range of equipment to Plantosyn HVI 46 hydraulic fluid, which is based entirely on renewable resources. It therefore has a high level of biodegradability when exposed to the ground.

Over a two year period, the wear of components was analysed by measuring levels of metals in the hydraulic fluid and viscosity changes, as well as monitoring contamination from dust, dirt and water. The fluid used had not been changed since the tests began, despite working in the dusty china clay environment. Wear rates of components working on Plantosyn HVI 46 were ten times lower, says Fuchs, than equipment working on conventional mineral hydraulic oil.

More articles from Fuchs Lubricants (UK) Plc: