Water and particulate matter receive much attention for their impacts on hydraulic fluid quality. But there’s another less-famous troublemaker causing problems right under OEMs’ noses. Just like any contaminant, air can be introduced into hydraulic fluid through various means. Common sources include leaks, loose connections, worn seals, and … [Read more...] about Hydraulic fluid’s overlooked saboteur
Filtration
The importance of hydraulic reservoir filtration systems
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor If you've ever been (un)lucky enough to open up a 30-year-old hydraulic reservoir, you know how shockingly grimy they can be. I've seen 3 in. of sludge, filings and particles sedimentate enough to clog the suction filter. That hydraulic power unit had a return filter in addition to its clearly unhelpful … [Read more...] about The importance of hydraulic reservoir filtration systems
Do special hydraulic fluids require special filters?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulic systems play a critical role in various industries, powering heavy machinery and equipment with precision and efficiency. The performance and longevity of these systems heavily rely on the cleanliness and quality of the hydraulic fluid. Contamination in hydraulic fluid can cause significant damage … [Read more...] about Do special hydraulic fluids require special filters?
Mechanical wear: what you can’t see can hurt you
Tiny particulates in lubricants that are invisible to the naked eye can have costly consequences in hydraulic systems. By Zach Sutton, Chevron Lubricants Industrial & Services Sector Specialist In the world of mechanical maintenance, machinery breakdowns are a reality. Mechanical wear occurs constantly, and moving parts erode in … [Read more...] about Mechanical wear: what you can’t see can hurt you
How to ensure hydraulic fluid cleanliness outside of filtration
Hydraulic fluid cleanliness is crucial for hydraulic systems' reliable operation and longevity. However, while filtration is critical in keeping hydraulic fluid clean, it is not the only factor that impacts fluid cleanliness. This article will discuss some tips to ensure hydraulic fluid cleanliness aside from the obvious filtration … [Read more...] about How to ensure hydraulic fluid cleanliness outside of filtration
What are the least common symptoms of contamination?
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor Hydraulic oil contamination may cause significant damage to hydraulic systems and components, leading to reduced performance and productivity and increased maintenance and repair costs. Therefore, it's crucial that you identify the symptoms of hydraulic oil contamination to prevent further damage and ensure … [Read more...] about What are the least common symptoms of contamination?
Alpha-Web media technology provides up to four-times cleaner hydraulic fluid
Donaldson Company Inc. has released Alpha-Web filtration media. This new hydraulic filtration technology significantly improves hydraulic fluid cleanliness which can extend hydraulic component life, decrease downtime and lower the cost of equipment ownership. Filters must stand up to the challenge of maintaining fluid cleanliness … [Read more...] about Alpha-Web media technology provides up to four-times cleaner hydraulic fluid
TTI launches SmartFlow media and filter element lines for parallel flow
TTI is excited to announce its newest innovation, its patented SmartFlow Media Technology and PowerGuard SmartFlow Filter Element Line. This media technology is an optimization that is available across every filter element TTI manufactures and allows TTI to pair any two or more filtration medias together in parallel flow. This technology allows … [Read more...] about TTI launches SmartFlow media and filter element lines for parallel flow
Hydraulic filters continue to evolve
By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor The evolution of hydraulic filters from basic, pleated cellulose or paper into today’s synthetic depth media material has been slow but sure. This is because there are only so many ways to trap microscopic particles while offering little resistance to even smaller oil molecules. But engineers are continuing the … [Read more...] about Hydraulic filters continue to evolve
Contamination control system provides real-time snapshot of hydraulic fluid health
Taking contamination monitoring to the next level, the Filtration Division of energy management company Eaton introduces the CCS 5 mobile contamination control system. Suitable for both pressurized online operation and unpressurized sampling of fluids, the CCS 5 system quickly and accurately determines the solid contamination particle size … [Read more...] about Contamination control system provides real-time snapshot of hydraulic fluid health
