Different Types of Hydraulic Fluid?

[jesutton3]

I'm working on a project where I am considering using hydraulic cylinders. The problem is regular hydraulic fluid is not very desierable in this application. I would like to know if there is anyother type of fluid that could be used without compromising the pump, cylinder, or other componets?

I would like to use the normal commercially availble pumps and cylinders. As for the fluid I would like to have something that is water soluble, non-staining, and non-toxic. This will be used around a marine enviornment so any leaks or spills from normal fluid would be unacceptable. Just plain water would be ideal but I would think that would cause corrosion issues with normal cylinders and pumps. Does anyone know if this is possible and if so any suggestions?

 

[hydtools]

You can use biodegradable fluids.
Check out Terresolve's offerings:

http://www.terresolve.com/body.html

Here is a link to desriptions of various hydraulic fluids.

http://www.fpweb.com/200/TechZone/HydraulicFluids/Article/True/6449/TechZone-HydraulicFluids

You could use water if you select components that resist corrosion and pumps that handle water. Remember that the water drawback is it freezes in the normal range of outdoor applications.

Ted

 

[IceStationZebra]

I agree with Hydtools. Two other applications that share your concerns are the food industry and golf courses. (blow a hose and kill a green - then try to charge $100 per round!!)

I have heard of water systems - but it will take $$$. You need all stainless steel components and seals designed for water. And the pump needs to operate with a fluid that has very little lubrication.

ISZ

 

[kcj]

vegetable based oils, mobil has one. I have not used, and they have some cold temperature issues.

Water Glycol, we use Citgo HP5046Fr, or is it FR5046HP....mainly for fire resistance but it is biodegradeable also and spills are not considered EPA hazmat cleanups. Running up to 5000 psi in hst occasionally, but 2500 psi in open loops is routine.

pure water, Danfoss Nessie, and some others, but high buck and many drawbacks.

k

 

[hydtools]

kcj, you might want to check on the cleanup requirement.

The msds from Citgo recommends cleanup of spills.

http://www.docs.citgo.com/msds_pi/648346001.pdf

Ted

 

[kcj]

yes, I should clarify. We do clean up spills, normal good housekeeping, etc. Just that they are not considered hazmat spills into ditches or water and don't get the EPA attention that oil can. Cleanup and disposal of dirt or rags is way different. (Mobile equipment)

For many years, (for several fluids) we have had what is referred to as the 'fish letter'. A form from the vendor listing fluids, the EPA trout fingerling and (??) testing indicating that it is considered a non haz material and meets the 28 day biodegrade minimums. The machines carry these letters on board and can show any concerned person that it is not a health or enviro issue. Similar deal with our fire foam concentrates.

We have found that once a complaint gets up the chain of command to higher levels in business, city gov, railroads, etc etc it is WAY harder to deal with and sooth concerns. More power = more egos, more forms, etc to deal with. If it can be prevented at low levels by showing the original officials/persons/citizens, it is less likely to be a major concern.

However, point agreed, i didn't mean dump in a ditch or pour down the drain.

k