Hydraulic fluids are an integral part of hydraulic machinery, allowing these systems to function properly by transmitting and controlling power through pressurized liquid. Conventional hydraulic fluids are petroleum-based and while effective, they pose flammability risks if ignition occurs. This presents a serious hazard, especially in industries where combustible materials are present. To address fire safety, fire resistant hydraulic fluids (FRHF) were developed.
What are Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluids?
Fire resistant Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid are specially engineered fluids with increased ignition resistance and self-extinguishing properties. They are produced through proprietary additive technologies that reduce volatility and suppress combustion without compromising a fluid's hydraulic performance. FRHFs have a higher flash point than mineral oils, making them less likely to ignite. If a flame is applied, they self-extinguish within a short time frame once the ignition source is removed.
meeting stringent requirements set by organizations like ISO 12922 and EN 15380. This classification system evaluates a fluid's fire resistance through tests that measure its flash point, fire point, and ability to self-extinguish. Approved FRHFs demonstrate flash points above 200°C to minimize ignition risks in normal operating conditions.
Applications for Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid
FRHF technology provides a critical layer of protection for industries where fire hazards exist. Common applications include hydraulic machinery used in hazardous locations with potential ignition sources like welding sites, paint booths, and industrial mining and construction zones. Specific equipment types that often use FRHF include:
- Hydraulic equipment on offshore oil rigs, where the risk of fire or explosion poses catastrophic dangers.
- Hydraulic systems in mining extraction machinery like draglines, excavators, and shovels. Sparks from moving parts could ignite pooled hydraulic fluid.
- Lift trucks, boom lifts, aerial work platforms, and other commercial vehicles used near flammable storage or work areas. Leaks make conventional fluids a fire risk.
- Hydraulic tools in welding shops and other industrial settings with combustion hazards like grinding sparks.
- Agriculture and forestry equipment working in dry, combustible conditions like harvesting machines.
Benefits Beyond Fire Safety
While the primary advantage of FRHF is mitigating fire and explosion risks, these fluids also provide other benefits versus standard hydraulic oils:
- Superior oxidation stability results in a longer service life as the fluid breaks down more slowly over time from heat and contaminants. This reduces downtime for fluid changes.
- Improved low temperature flow properties allow operation in colder climates without gelling or viscous thickening that can damage pumps.
- Biodegradability of certain formulations lessens environmental impact in case of accidental leaks or spills by breaking down more readily.
- Support of equipment uptime through condition monitoring programs that precisely track fluid degradation markers with tests. This enables optimized replacement intervals.
- Product labeling and certifications assure safety compliance for equipment operating in hazardous work zones subject to inspection.
Fire Resistant Fluid Selection Criteria
When choosing a FRHF, factors like the following must be considered to ensure product suitability:
- Intended machinery and its unique operating conditions/environments like temperature extremes, contamination levels, and leak potential.
- Fire protection standards the fluid must satisfy like ISO 12922, EN 15380, or individual OEM specifications.
- Compatibility with hydraulic system components like seals, hoses, and pumps which all manufacturers certify their fluids for.
- Biodegradability and environmental profile if an accidental spill could pollute sensitive areas.
- On-site storage and handling requirements per safety data sheets (SDS). Proper training reduces risks.
- Cost compared to performance gains and the value of mitigating a catastrophic fire incident.
With proper selection and maintenance practices, fire resistant hydraulic fluids deliver vital protection for at-risk hydraulic applications to help assure workplace and environmental safety. Their increased resilience against ignition sources makes them an essential consideration.
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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)