Hydraulic
systems play a vital role in operating heavy machinery across various
industries like construction, mining, forestry and more. However, these
environments also pose serious fire risks that can threaten safety. This is
where fire resistant hydraulic fluids come in by helping protect lives and
assets.
What are Hydraulic Systems?
Fire
Resistant Hydraulic Fluid systems work by transmitting power through a
liquid called hydraulic fluid. They use hydraulic cylinders or hydraulic motors
to provide mechanical force and motion. These systems are found in equipment
that requires lifting, lowering, grasping, clamping or power assisted
movements. Common applications include excavators, cranes, bulldozers,
forklifts and industrial presses.
Hydraulic fluids are designed to deliver high pressure without compressing.
They also lubricate components and remove heat generated during operation.
Standard fluids used are petroleum-based but have drawbacks in hazardous work
zones.
Importance of Fire Resistance
Traditional hydraulic fluids are highly flammable with low flash and fire
points. Even small leaks can catch fire easily if an ignition source is
present. Considering the volatile work environments in industries, fire risks
are ever-present from sparks, hot surfaces and accidental combustions.
A fire in the hydraulic system can quickly engulf the whole machine and spread
uncontrollably. It threatens the safety of operating personnel and bystanders.
Damage to expensive equipment is another concern, with repair costs running
into thousands. Downtime further impacts productivity and project timelines.
This is where fire resistant hydraulic fluids make a difference. They have
additives that increase oxidation stability and raise combustion properties
significantly above the standards. This buys valuable time for personnel
evacuation and fire control in an emergency. It also protects the hydraulic
system integrity even in heat exposure scenarios.
Key Properties of Fire Resistant Fluids
Fire resistant hydraulic fluids are specially formulated to achieve the
following performance enhancements over ordinary oils:
- Higher flash point (260°C minimum) - Fluid does not produce flammable vapors
even when heated.
- Higher fire point (300°C minimum) - Temperature at which sustained combustion
occurs on contact with ignition source.
- Excellent thermal and oxidative stability - Prevents degradation of
properties at elevated operating temperatures.
- Reduced carbon residue formation - Lower coking tendency avoids hydraulic
circuit blockages.
- Compatibility with seals and hoses - No swelling or degradation of components
over time.
- Good hydraulic performance - Maintain fluidity, lubrication and anti-wear
characteristics under pressure.
Selection Factors
While fire resistance is a primary need, other fluid properties must also align
with the machine and environmental requirements. Factors impacting the choice
include:
- Equipment manufacturer specifications - May mandate certain brands for
warranty compliance.
- Operating temperature range - Extreme hot or cold climatic conditions require
special formulation.
- Contamination risks - Dust, water ingress etc. require filterability and
demulsibility.
- Emission compliance - Non-toxic, biodegradable and low VOC content fluids for
open areas.
- Fluid replacement schedule - Long drain intervals save on maintenance costs.
- Equipment service life - Compatibility with seals over 15-20 years of
operation.
- Budget - Premium fire resistant fluids attract higher initial outlay than
standard oils.
Fire resistant hydraulic fluids play a critical safety role in high-risk
industries involving combustible materials, hot operations or explosive
atmospheres. While upfront costs are higher, reduced fire risks more than
offset expenses against asset damage, personnel injuries and business
interruptions. Proper fluid selection and equipment maintenance ensures
hydraulic systems keep functioning reliably even in emergencies. This makes a
compelling case for their adoption across hazardous work zones.
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About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four
years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various
industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and
materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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