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Hydraulic trends are affecting the lubrication market

Hydraulic equipment requires lubrication to function as well as to lessen the friction between the components ensuring a longer life span. It is no surprise then that trends within the hydraulics industry will affect the hydraulics lubrication market.

Trends within the hydraulic industry

Power Team SA, a supplier with decades of experience within the hydraulic equipment and accessories industry, has mentioned the following trends within the hydraulic industry which will impact the hydraulic lubricant market.

Hydraulic systems are being designed to be lighter which will help to increase the power density. Lighter hydraulic equipment helps to reduce fuel consumption driving the market towards smaller pumps that do not compromise on power, therefore operating at a much higher internal pressure. This can cause further increases in internal fuel leakage resulting in less clearance between moving parts causing lubrication needs to move from hydrodynamic to mixed film to help protect component parts.

Newer hydraulic systems are being designed to reduce power losses and increase machine efficiency. The number of bends, joints and filter differentials have been reduced, minimising valve losses. These energy efficient measures are always beneficial, and therefore energy-efficient hydraulic fluids will contribute to the overall efficiency.

  • The use of finer filters within the hydraulic system is done so to ensure that the fluid is ultraclean to help curb contamination. Wet filterability is also needed as a fluid performance parameter as a hydraulic fluid’s resistance to filter-clogging dropout through incubation with water tested thoroughly during development.
  • Smaller oil coolers and reservoirs are being used to save space and reduce weight. This increases the fluid operating temperature which will negatively affect the life of the fluid. Hydraulic fluids that demonstrate good thermal stability and antioxidant properties are to be used to help prevent issues from occurring. Smaller reservoirs means that less fluid is going to be doing the same amount of work as a larger reservoir, and due to this the additives will be used up more quickly. Increases in additive treat levels will need to occur.
  • There have been many changes in technology over the years which have extended to hydraulic systems. More modern hydraulic systems are operated using electronics, which can match the hydraulic pressure and flow to the exact torque requirements. Digital valves are also being used to allow for more precise control of equipment dynamically and statically. The lubricants need to have a low air content and compressibility ensuring that they don’t interfere with the valve performance.

With hydraulic systems changing over time, hydraulic lubricants and fluids need to adapt to suit these modifications which come with their own objectives. Fluids needs to be efficient, extend oil drain intervals, be sustainable and continue to provide conductivity and reduce friction.

Power Team SA is available to discuss all hydraulic needs and will be able to provide an expert opinion and solution to aid in your hydraulic journey.