Are All Hydraulic Oils The Same?

No, all hydraulic oils are not the same. Hydraulic oils vary by type and viscosity, and using the correct oil is especially important for heavy-duty truck applications. The most common types are mineral-based, synthetic, and water-based hydraulic oils, with water-based oils being the least used. Mineral-based oils come from crude oil, while synthetic oils are manmade and known for their longer lifespan.

Hydraulic oils are also classified by ISO viscosity grades, which determine where the oil should be used. Oil that is too thick can cause high power consumption and sluggish operation, while oil that is too thin can lead to internal leakage, reduced protection, and excessive wear.

 

What is Hydraulic Oil?

In heavy duty truck applications, hydraulic oil also plays an important role in protecting the system. The correct hydraulic oil helps manage heat, maintain proper viscosity, and reduce wear on internal components. Using the right type and viscosity of hydraulic oil is essential for reliable operation and long system life, especially in demanding or high-use applications.

 

Is Hydraulic Oil Flammable?

Yes, hydraulic oil can be flammable, but the level of flammability depends on the type of oil being used and the conditions it is exposed to. Most hydraulic oils used in heavy-duty truck applications are designed to operate safely under normal working temperatures, but they can pose a fire risk if they leak onto hot surfaces or are exposed to extreme heat.

 

Choosing A Hydraulic Oil

When choosing a hydraulic oil for your specific application, it’s important to remember the differences between each ISO grade. This grading system is based on the viscosity of the oil which determines where the given oil should be used. With a higher viscosity, high power consumption and sluggish operation may result in some systems, but too low of oil viscosity can result in internal leakage and a lack of protection which will lead to excessive wear.

Contact Hydraulic Specialty Inc.

If you’re needing a hydraulic system servicing for your heavy duty truck, contact the Hydraulic Specialty Inc. team today!