Hydraulics Face Tough Times in The Mines
100% Synthetic Oil and Sub-Micron Filtration Pays Big Dividends
The Australian mining environment is one of the toughest challenges for heavy equipment that relies on efficient hydraulics.
“While 100 percent synthetic hydraulic oils may cost more initially, their performance delivers surprising reductions in wear on hoses, cylinders, valve banks and other system components, “ said Laurie Hyland of Amsoil distributor, Enginecare Systems Australasia.
“Hydraulic oil not only provides the medium for hydraulic power. It is also responsible for lubricating and protecting hydraulic components, cooling the system by transferring heat and minimising wear, friction, deposits, rust and corrosion.
“We find many operators buy the cheapest oil for hydraulic systems, only to be disappointed when they incur unscheduled downtime due to system failures.
“A variety of different additive packages are used in different hydraulic fluids, therefore selection of the most appropriate package is critical. Hoses alone can last three to four times longer by using correctly specified synthetic oils.
“100 percent synthetic anti-wear hydraulic oils such as the Amsoil range are shear stable, long life lubricants formulated with premium synthetic base oils and additive systems that inhibit oxidation, rust and foam.
“These oils also contain a very effective zinc-based anti-wear/antioxidant additive that prevents wear in high-speed, high pressure vane and gear pumps while meeting the lubrication requirements of axial piston pumps with bronze-on-steel metallurgy.
“Users of these lubricants and a quality oil sampling program have reported significant oil drain interval extension and reduced labour costs associated with repairs, downtime and parts replacement. The return on the extra investment in quality oil is easily measured,” Laurie said.
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