The hydraulic oil in the hydraulic system is a key element necessary for the normal operation of the system. However, in practical use, hydraulic oil may emulsify for various reasons. Will the use of emulsified hydraulic oil in hydraulic systems reduce product performance and lifespan? How to determine whether emulsified hydraulic oil can still be used? How to prevent hydraulic oil emulsification? This article provides a detailed exploration and explanation of this. What is hydraulic oil emulsification?
Hydraulic oil emulsification is the process of dissolving water in hydraulic oil to form an oil-water mixture. Generally speaking, emulsification occurs when the water content of hydraulic oil exceeds 0.2%.
There are many reasons for hydraulic oil emulsification, including possible leaks in the hydraulic system that can cause mud and water to enter the system, the presence of water in the oil during tank filling, and factors such as damage to the oil pipeline and introduction of foreign impurities during use.
The Influence of Hydraulic Oil Emulsification on Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic oil emulsification can lead to a decrease in the performance and lifespan of various components and equipment in the hydraulic system, and even lead to system failures. Generally speaking, the performance matching of hydraulic oil is based on the pure oil state, and the performance parameters of emulsified hydraulic oil will have significant changes, such as viscosity changes, density changes, oxidation stability changes, etc.
If emulsified hydraulic oil must be used, it will lead to faster aging of the hydraulic system, damage to components, and uneven working conditions.
How to determine whether emulsified hydraulic oil can be used
The use of hydraulic oil is generally judged by checking its appearance and color after emulsification. If the appearance is cloudy and appears yellow or green, it indicates that it may contain moisture. At this point, water can be separated using a separation method. After separation, the color and appearance of the oil were tested. If the color and appearance are normal after separation, it indicates that the hydraulic oil can still be used. If the color and appearance cannot be restored to normal, the hydraulic oil needs to be replaced. The purity of hydraulic oil is crucial for system operation, and it is important not to overlook the quality issues of hydraulic oil.
How to prevent hydraulic oil emulsification
The entry of mud and water into the hydraulic system is the main cause of hydraulic oil emulsification. Therefore, the key to preventing hydraulic oil emulsification is to prevent mud and water from entering the hydraulic system. The following are several measures to prevent hydraulic oil emulsification:
1. Regularly replace hydraulic oil and perform internal maintenance.
2. Regularly inspect and maintain the seals and pipelines in the hydraulic system to avoid oil leakage.
3. Ensure the quality of the oil and avoid introducing foreign impurities.
4. Regularly check the oil tank and inlet in the hydraulic system to avoid water ingress.
5. Use a filtration system to filter hydraulic oil to prevent impurities from entering the hydraulic system.
summary
Hydraulic oil emulsification can cause varying degrees of damage to the hydraulic system. Whether the emulsified hydraulic oil can be used requires testing the appearance and color of the oil by separating water. The key to preventing hydraulic oil emulsification is to prevent mud and water from entering the hydraulic system during daily use, regularly replace hydraulic oil, and perform internal maintenance. Mastering the above points will better maintain and maintain your hydraulic system, and extend its service life.