LUBRICATION

A Technical Publication Devoted to the Selection and Use of Lubricants

Published By
Texaco Inc.
2000 Westchester Avenue
White Plains, NY 10650
Volume 87 Number 1 January, 2001
To request a new subscription or to report a change of address (enclose mailing label),
please write to: Robert J. Taylor, Texaco Inc., 1111 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002;
or by e-mail: lubricationmagazine@texaco.com
Copyright © 2001 by Texaco Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Materials may not be reproduced or reprinted without written permission of Texaco Inc.

TECHNICAL EDITOR: LYNNE L. MEGNIN

MANAGING EDITOR: JAMES B. COLEY
PRODUCED BY: BAKER PRINTING, BAKER, LA

HYDRAULIC FLUID
CLEANLINESS
INTRODUCTION
Anyone who has dealt with hydraulic sys-
tems for any length of time will admit that
hydraulic systems have evolved from a sim-
plistic, crude state into extremely complex
systems in a relatively short time. Some
essential reference points in the develop-
ment of hydraulic systems include the build-
ing of the pyramids and the scientific
research of Blaise Pascal and Albert
Einstein. The first documented use of
hydraulic technology applied as a labor sav-
ing technology occurred during the construc-
tion of the Egyptian pyramids. Over a thou-
sand years later in the 1600s, Pascal dis-
covered hydraulics as a science. Through
that discovery came Pascal’s Law which
states, “Pressure exerted on a confined fluid
is transmitted throughout the fluid, undimin-
ished, in all directions and acts with equal
force on all equal areas.”
Three hundred years later in the early
1900s, Albert Einstein said this about
hydraulics, “Why is it that this magnificent
applied science, which makes life easier and
reduces work, bring us little happiness? The
simple answer runs because we have not
yet learned to make sensible use of it.”
One look at the hydraulics equipment
associated with the PLC (programmable
logic controller) controlled robotics in use
today is all it takes to know that today’s
hydraulic systems are very sophisticated
and that we are now taking advantage of this
magnificent applied science.
Unfortunately, hydraulic fluid handling
practices have not advanced at the same
rate as the equipment. For that reason,
much of today’s sophisticated hydraulic
equipment fails prematurely and does not
live up to its projected performance poten-
tial. Close examination of failed components
has revealed that more than four times as

1
 LUBRICATION
many hydraulic system failures are caused
by improper fluid condition than all other
causes combined. This fact makes it imper-
ative that the message concerning the
importance of hydraulic fluid cleanliness and
how to achieve a state of cleanliness be
conveyed to hydraulic fluid users. This arti-
cle will examine the meaning of cleanliness,
discuss contamination sources, and offer
solutions to promote fluid and system clean-
liness.
HOW CLEAN IS CLEAN?
Cleanliness is a relative term, which
prompts us to ask, “How clean is clean?”
The degree or level of cleanliness in one
application may not be sufficient in another.
For example, the required cleanliness for the
fluid in a hydraulic floor jack is substantially
different than for the fluids used in manufac-
turing machine robotics; yet, they are both
hydraulic systems. For this reason we must
define “clean.”
The term clean, as referred to in this arti-
cle, describes the cleanliness of the
hydraulic fluid and the hydraulic system.
Clean hydraulic systems are defined by a
quantifiable, measurable level of particulate,
foreign matter, other hydraulic fluids or for-
mulas, and water or moisture. The concen-
tration of these contaminants determines the
degree of cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid.
The importance of maintaining a clean
hydraulic system cannot be ignored.
Because of the large number of contamina-
tion related system failures, the NFPA
(National Fluid Power Association) and ANSI
(American National Standards Institute)
have established minimum “system cleanli-
ness standards.” From the use of these
standards, target cleanliness levels can be
established for each application. The basis
of the individual targets must be set to the
most sensitive component in the system.
The most common cause cited for denial
of warranty claims in hydraulic systems is
contamination. Many original equipment
manufacturers are now predicating the
2
equipment warranty on the continuous main-
tenance of specified cleanliness levels. If a
system reaches unacceptable cleanliness
levels and the condition is not quickly cor-
rected, the warranty will be voided.
TYPES OF CONTAMINATION
Contamination can take several forms,
including, but not limited to:
1. Metallic Particulate is normally the
by-product of metallic component
wear. Environmental dust, dirt from
construction or maintenance, or
anything that can breakdown into
small pieces can also be classified
as particulate. Circulation of a slurry
of fluid and particulate will generate
even more particulate from abra-
sion. The particles generated inter-
nally will be harder than the sur-
faces from which they came, thus
becoming even more damaging to
machine surfaces.
2. Foreign Materials such as pieces
of gasket material, gasket sealers
such as silicone sealant, damaged
O-rings, debris from the construc-
tion or assembly process, welding
buckshot, and material introduced
during start-up and normal opera-
tion all contribute to contamination
of hydraulic systems.
3. Other Hydraulic Fluids or
Formulas are normally introduced
during the filling process. This con-
tamination can come from the
equipment used to transfer
hydraulic fluid from storage contain-
ers to the system. Hand pumps,
hoses, storage drums, and vessels
are all typical sources of fluid con-
tamination.
4. Water can form through the simple
process of atmospheric condensa-
tion in a vented-to-atmosphere sys-
tem. Maintenance personnel wash-
ing down an area can introduce
water into a hydraulic system by
 LUBRICATION
inadvertently directing the water
hose at a vent on a reservoir, or
washing a reservoir that is not com-
pletely sealed.
5. Gases caused by aeration, cavita-
tion, or poor design can contaminate
a hydraulic system. Sources for
gases can be leaking pump seals,
pump suction side leaks, or the oil
being returned to the bulk fluid
above, rather than below, oil level.
SOURCES OF CONTAMINATION
NEW HYDRAULIC OIL
New hydraulic oil is formulated to optimize
system performance by:
• Being non-compressible
• Reducing friction
• Reducing component wear
• Transferring heat easily
• Separating water easily
• Releasing entrained air quickly
• Providing a viscous seal
Each oil formulation is tested for all of
these attributes and several performance
characteristics. It is also tested for compati-
bility with other hydraulic fluids. All of these
tests are performed with clean, dry fluids,
and there is not a test that includes contam-
ination with particulate and/or water.
Therefore, for the fluid to perform in a
hydraulic system the same way it performed
in the tests, it must be kept clean and dry.
For those who might think there should be
a test that includes particulate and water,
there are simply too many different types,
amounts, and combinations of particulate
and fluids that occur in hydraulic systems for
this to be feasible. The thin fluid film is what
the moving parts are supposed to be riding
on. However, if the particulate is larger in
diameter than the thickness of the fluid film,
it is easy to see that the moving parts will be
riding on the particulate rather than the fluid
film. Any test that might be developed which
includes particulate would not be reflecting
fluid performance.
3
There is a common belief among hydraulic
fluid users that if the hydraulic fluid supplier
would just deliver clean fluid, there would
not be a problem. Unfortunately, excessive
particulate contamination can occur from
many sources. Every time a hydraulic fluid is
handled the particulate contamination
increases. For example, particulate can be
introduced when new hydraulic oil is blend-
ed, pumped, packaged, transferred,
pumped into a new system, or added to an
active system. These are not the only
sources for particulate. Each source con-
tributes a little and eventually the level of
contamination can become excessive if
measures are not taken to control it.
It is true that new hydraulic fluid should be
clean. However, a target cleanliness level
must be determined first. The fluid supplier
is trying to supply a fluid that is cost com-
petitive and will perform the desired task for
many, many applications. Supplying fluids
that are totally particulate-free would drive
the cost of the fluid excessively high. In real-
ity, the only point at which the particulate
level is truly critical is in the hydraulic system
itself. For that reason it is recommended that
the required hydraulic fluid cleanliness level
be determined and that target be met as the
fluid is pumped into the application.
Even if the new hydraulic fluid is clean
when it is delivered, if it is pumped into a
storage tank that is grossly contaminated,
any efforts to deliver clean fluid will be wast-
ed. Many end users tend to overlook the
cleanliness of their own storage tanks. They
also fail to realize that their storage tanks
can be a major source for contamination if
they are not vented properly. Also, if the stor-
age tanks are equipped with steam coils, as
many of them are, they occasionally leak
steam condensate into the hydraulic fluid.
The following is a generic, logical path to
insure the best opportunity for favorable fluid
performance:
1. Insure that the proper fluid and vis-
cosity are being used.
2. Insure that the storage container is
clean and dry.
 LUBRICATION
3. Insure that the storage container is
vented properly by using the appro-
priate vent filter.
4. Insure clean fluid is delivered by
establishing a reasonable target
cleanliness level and have the fluid
filtered to the target level, or cleaner,
when it is pumped into the storage
tank, tote, or other storage contain-
er.
5. Read the certificate of analysis (C of
A) to determine the moisture content
of the new fluid.
6. Establish the appropriate target
cleanliness level and circulate the
fluid in the storage container through
a kidney loop filtration system until
the target is met and can be main-
tained.
7. Filter the fluid any time it is trans-
ferred from the storage container.
8. Filter the fluid as it is transferred into
the active system.
9. Determine and maintain the system
target cleanliness level with either
the filtration designed into the sys-
tem or by using a kidney loop filtra-
tion system attached to the hydraulic
system.
10. Set-up a monitoring schedule and
submit representative samples of
the fluid for testing.
11. Insure that everyone that can affect
the test results sees and under-
stands the test results, including the
clean-up people and the person that
enters the results in the computer or
other data monitoring form.
If this path is taken, the particulate level of
the new fluid will be reduced because the
checks and balances will be in place to cap-
ture any contamination before it gets to the
active system.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION
When a hydraulic system is constructed,
contaminants are produced by the construc-
tion process. Cutting, grinding, welding,
4
excess gasket sealers, excess bolt thread
dressing, and general construction atmos-
pheric dust all contribute to an unclean sys-
tem. A newly constructed system must be
thoroughly cleaned and flushed to insure
maximum cleanliness. Introducing new,
clean hydraulic fluid to a dirty system will do
little, if anything, to slow component wear or
prevent system failure.
INGRESSED MATERIALS
Contamination of a hydraulic system also
occurs from ingression of materials. An
example of ingressed material is a reservoir
which has a 3” diameter oil return line, enter-
ing a 10” diameter hole in the top of the
reservoir. The 10” hole exists to allow for
return line movement during operation. This
opening offers an excellent point for contam-
ination ingression. Particulate in the atmos-
phere, water from area wash downs, and
manufacturing debris will find their way into
the opening and contaminate the fluid reser-
voir. A simple rubber or leather boot attached
to the surface of the reservoir and the return
pipe to fill the gap will solve the problem and
reduce fluid contamination.
In order to prevent ingress of particulate
through the system vent, the proper system
vent must be installed. As hydraulic system
fluid demands change, the fluid level rises
and falls causing air to enter and exit the
space above the fluid level in the reservoir.
This action is commonly referred to as
“breathing.” If the vent is not properly filtered,
particulate from the atmosphere will enter
the vent hole and contaminate the fluid.
Another example of particulate ingress is
on the rod end of a hydraulic cylinder. As the
rod is extended, it is wiped off by a wiper and
the oil seal. However, a very thin oil film will
still be present and air borne particulate will
deposit on the extended, “wet” rod. When
the rod is retracted, some of the particulate
will get past the seal and wiper and be
washed off the rod by the fluid inside the
cylinder. The better the condition of the seal,
the less likely this will be a problem.
 LUBRICATION
INTERNAL GENERATION
Internal generation of contaminants is
unavoidable in an operating system. Normal
wear of moving parts causes particulate that
will serve to reduce the efficiency of the sys-
tem. If not dealt with, the normal wear will
degrade the system and its components.
Particle concentrations in hydraulic fluid are
abrasive. Abrasive wear to components
increases the particle concentrations in the
fluid. Correct filtering and properly located
filters can dramatically reduce their damag-
ing effects.
MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES
Many times maintenance activities per-
formed on hydraulic systems produce con-
tamination. Opening a reservoir in an
extremely dusty environment will cause a
dramatic increase in particle count.
Disassembly and re-assembly of compo-
nents often introduces foreign material into
the system. Excess gasket dressing, pipe
thread sealant, thread cutting oils from
replacement piping, and old gasket material
often find their way into the hydraulic sys-
tem. The paper-like qualities of gasket mate-
rial serve to block the surface of filter media
and reduce the efficiency of the filter. Even
small quantities of thread cutting fluid or any
foreign fluids can negatively impact the
hydraulic fluid formulation. Any change to
the hydraulic fluid that alters the compress-
ibility, lubrication qualities, or particulate
concentrations will degrade the efficiency
and life of the system.
HEAT
Heat is another form of fluid contamina-
tion. Most hydraulic fluids are not designed
to operate at excessively high temperatures.
In fact, if the hydraulic fluid is allowed to
exceed critical temperature, the chemical
structure changes, viscosity varies, and
usable life is drastically reduced. This critical
temperature is typically 140ºF (60ºC). It has
5
been said that for every 18ºF (10ºC) of fluid
temperature increase above the critical tem-
perature, the fluid oxidation rate doubles
and the fluid life is cut in half. This number
can change both for the better or worse,
depending on the fluid in question, with the
extremes being synthetics and biodegrad-
ables. Heat sources include:
• Improper system design
• Pump cavitation or aeration
• Wrong fluid
• Wrong fluid viscosity
• Ingression of air and compression of
the entrained air
• Wrong application of equipment
• Failure of or absence of heat
exchanger
• Inadequate temperature differential
between ambient and heat
exchanger
• Lack of shrouding of exchanger to
force direction of cooling air
• Forcing too much oil through the
relief valve (poor system design)
MOISTURE
Moisture is a very common form of con-
tamination in hydraulic systems. Quite often,
the moisture comes from the atmosphere
around the reservoir. The moisture condens-
es in the vapor space above the oil level in
the reservoir on the cooler interior metal
walls and roof of the reservoir. If the interior
walls of the reservoir are not protected ade-
quately by an appropriate coating, the mois-
ture will cause rust to form. The rust will
flake off into the hydraulic fluid where it will
be carried into the inlet of the pump and dis-
tributed throughout the entire system.
Reservoir vent filters can aid in reducing
or eliminating the introduction of moisture
from the atmosphere by incorporating water
barrier technology in their filter matrix. Water
can also enter the system through inspec-
tion holes and through other service open-
ings, if the opening covers are not replaced
and resealed after each maintenance event.
Rain and area wash downs can introduce
 LUBRICATION
water into hydraulic systems through these
unsecured openings. Water and oil heat
exchangers, which should be pressure test-
ed before placed in service, are sometimes
used to control the hydraulic fluid tempera-
ture. If the tube bundle in the exchanger
leaks, water will enter the hydraulic fluid and
be distributed throughout the system.
Poor fluid storage practices can often
introduce water into a hydraulic system.
Many times, drums of hydraulic fluid are
stored near a hydraulic system for conven-
ience. The drum is usually unprotected from
the environment, rain, dust, dirt, and area
wash downs. The top of the drum becomes
contaminated with all these materials, and
when opened to add fluid to the system, the
contamination flows directly into the open
drum. When drums are left upright the head
(top) of the drum is often filled with rainwa-
ter. If the drum opening is not sealed prop-
erly, the naturally occurring heating and
cooling effects of the drum can cause water
on the head of the drum to be pulled through
the threads and into the fluid.
If free water is allowed to remain in the
hydraulic system, bacterial growth can
occur. Once excess moisture is present, all
the conditions required to create such a
reaction inside a normal hydraulic system
are present. Moisture, air, oil, and heat can
create some very undesirable reaction by-
products such as odor, rust, chemical
changes to additives, and increased oxida-
tion rate. Every effort should be made to
reduce the amount of moisture in a hydraulic
system. The corrosion damage caused by
moisture contamination contributes to sys-
tem failure, increased maintenance costs,
and more frequently occurring downtime.
COMMON FAILURE CONDITIONS
INADEQUATE DESIGN
Existing hydraulic systems with contami-
nation problems are frequently caused by
inadequate design. System design failures
are often the most difficult to resolve. A real
6
cost analysis must be administered to deter-
mine if a redesign of the system is the cor-
rect solution.
Consider the following example: The prob-
lem is excess contamination, overheated
fluid, and poor maintenance practices. The
system reservoir is located under the electri-
cally heated equipment where the ambient
temperature is approximately 135ºF. The
area is washed down frequently with water.
The high ambient air temperature condi-
tion was created when several units were
configured to reduce heat losses and reduce
electrical power requirements. The original
design called for the reservoirs to be posi-
tioned so that adequate heat dissipation
could be accomplished by ventilating the
space. It is important at this point to remem-
ber that one of the functions of the reservoir
is heat dissipation through the walls. The
“improved heat loss reducing” configuration
of the machines has caused the majority of
the hydraulic system failures. Because the
area is so hot, it is difficult to get mainte-
nance personnel to enter the area to work.
Those who enter the area cannot remain
very long. Hydraulic fluid leaks persist and
the oxidation rate increases because the
high ambient temperatures reduce heat radi-
ation capability.
The return line to the reservoir also intro-
duces fluid into the reservoir above the fluid
level. This causes air to become mixed into
the fluid. These air bubbles enter the pump
and are compressed. This results in adiabat-
ic compression, the results of which can be
seen in the following examples:
• Air bubble at 70ºF and 14.7 psi:
-Compressed bubble to 1,000 psi =
over 1,300ºF; a 985 psi increase
causes a 1,230ºF temperature
increase.
-Compressed bubble to 10,000 psi =
3,000ºF; a 9,930 psi increase caus-
es a 2,930ºF temperature increase.
The heat generated by adiabatic compres-
sion occurs at the surface of the bubble and
dissipates quickly in the fluid. However, if it
is allowed to continue, the effects are mani-
 LUBRICATION

fest as a steady increase in overall system component failures, increased maintenance

temperature. Once this starts occurring,
heat exchange capabilities of the system
must be adequate to handle the extra heat.
Handling of excess heat translates into
money spent unnecessarily.
One of the functions of the reservoir is to
radiate heat. It is often thought that if the
reservoir is large, then heat exchangers are
not necessary. Here is an example of why
that thinking is flawed. If a 200 gallon reser-
voir in location with a 30ºF temperature dif-
ferential (ambient cooling air is approximate-
ly 30ºF cooler than the oil during stable
operating conditions), the reservoir can only
shed approximately one-half horsepower
(Hp) of heat.
As fluid temperatures increase, the lubri-
cating qualities, viscosity, and film thickness
of the fluid diminish resulting in component
wear, particulate generation, and system
failure. The combination of high ambient
temperatures, inadequate maintenance, and
adiabatic compression produce frequent
cost, and excessive downtime resulting in
reduced profits.
In this example, it is clear that a compari-
son of the savings realized by the new “heat
loss reducing” design and the increased cost
associate with hydraulic system expense
and down time is needed. At least superfi-
cially, it appears that this system is doomed
to fail completely.
One of the best solution to an inadequate
design problem, such as the one shown in
Figure 1, is to relocate the machines so ade-
quate reservoir heat radiation and oil cooling
can occur. However, the production require-
ments and budget of the facility cannot toler-
ate shutdown, redesign, and relocation.
Situations like this demonstrate the need for
serious consideration of target cleanliness
levels and system maintenance during the
design phase of any hydraulic system. The
system in Figure 1 could be significantly
improved by the addition of a heat exchang-
er on the hydraulic fluid reservoir.

Control Panel Control Panel Control Panel

Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic

Reservoir Reservoir Reservoir
(below press) (below press) (below press)

ELECTRICALLY ELECTRICALLY ELECTRICALLY

HEATED HEATED HEATED
HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC
PRESS PRESS PRESS

Ambient Temperature in this area

(Hydraulic System Cooling Air)
PLASTIC CURTAIN ~ 135ºF PLASTIC CURTAIN

ELECTRICALLY ELECTRICALLY ELECTRICALLY

HEATED HEATED HEATED
HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC
PRESS PRESS PRESS

Hydraulic Hydraulic Hydraulic

Reservoir Reservoir Reservoir
(below press) (below press) (below press)

Control Panel Control Panel Control Panel

Figure 1 - Inadequate Design

7
 LUBRICATION
OTHER FLUIDS
Ashless (Zinc-free) Fluids
In some cases, different hydraulic fluid
formulations can contaminate the system
by creating reaction by-products. If a user
is currently using a zinc-containing
hydraulic fluid and decides to replace it
with an ashless (non-zinc containing) fluid,
the entire system must be drained and
flushed thoroughly. A mixture of a zinc-
containing fluid and an ashless fluid can
cause a reaction, which can form salts that
will eventually plug system filters. This is
primarily a function of the difference in pH
between the two products, caused by dif-
ferent additive chemistries.
The fluid and equipment suppliers
should be consulted concerning proper
flushing procedures and cleaning methods
when the user switches from one fluid to
another.
Mineral Oil and Synthetic Fluids
Another problem can occur when a
hydraulic system is switched from a miner-
al oil based hydraulic fluid to a synthetic
fluid. If the entire system is not drained
and flushed thoroughly, the expected
advantages of the synthetic fluid may be
compromised by the presence of the min-
eral oil. Changing hydraulic fluid types can
only be done properly if the system is thor-
oughly drained and cleaned of all the other
fluid prior to introducing a new fluid.
There can also be adverse effects from
introducing a synthetic fluid to a system
that has seals that are not compatible with
synthetics. The effects of the fluid on elas-
tomers should be readily available from
the system designer, seal manufacturer, or
the fluid supplier.
Biodegradables
Another cause for concern is when min-
eral oils are replaced with biodegradable
8
fluids. There is an old proverb that states,
“Be careful what you ask for, because you
just might get it.” The same holds true
here for biodegradable fluids. The primary
focus during biodegradable oil formulation
is making a product that can degrade eas-
ily. It is feasible that some of these fluids
could degrade while in storage, before
even being introduced to the hydraulic
system.
It is important to understand that all
hydraulic fluids are biodegradable. In fact,
everything is biodegradable. It is just a
matter of what conditions are necessary
and how much time it takes something to
biodegrade.
With respect to hydraulic fluids,
biodegradability is simply a matter of how
quickly it changes from its original form
into a chemical form that is environmental-
ly innocuous (water, carbon dioxide, min-
eral salts, and biomass). For something to
be classified as “readily biodegradable” it
must meet accepted standard test criteria,
which specifically state how quickly it
becomes environmentally innocuous.
Unfortunately, all the components need-
ed to promote biodegradability such as
heat, entrained air, and water are com-
monly present in hydraulic systems. This
presence directly affects the rate at which
biodegradable fluids break down. Great
care must be taken to remove air and
water from a system containing biodegrad-
able fluids. Heat buildup must also be kept
to a minimum.
If the system is not properly controlled,
biological growth and extremely noxious
odor will result. At this point, the system
must be shutdown and thoroughly cleaned
in order to meet biological cleanliness lev-
els. Above average temperature control of
biodegradable fluids should also be used.
Biodegradable fluids should operate at
temperatures at or below 140ºF. If the fluid
is allowed to exceed 140ºF, oxidation of
the fluid increases rapidly and the fluid life
is shortened dramatically. Changing to
biodegradable fluids requires a thorough
 LUBRICATION
cleaning of the system. Failure to properly
clean the system can increase biodegrad-
ability and increase toxicity of the fluid in
the system, especially if a mixture of other
fluids, air, and water can change the
biodegradability of the fluid to an undesir-
able level.
OXIDATION
Oxidation is another source of hydraulic
fluid failure. Oxidation occurs when oxy-
gen reacts with the oil to form a multitude
of compounds. The first reactions form
unstable hydroperoxides. The hydroperox-
ides react to form alcohols, aldehydes,
ketones, acids, and oxy-acids that are sol-
uble in oil. These acidic products increase
the viscosity of the oil and can be corro-
sive to metal in the system.
Polymerization and condensation reac-
tions produce insoluble gum, sludge, and
varnish. These products serve to plug
openings, increase wear, cause the sys-
tem to become sluggish in operation, and
reduce clearances making the system ulti-
mately inoperable.
Temperature is a primary accelerator of
oil oxidation, as well as moisture, dirt,
metal particles, paint, joint compounds,
and insoluble oxidation products. The rate
of oxidation will approximately double for
every 18ºF (10ºC) rise above 140ºF (60ºC)
in fluid temperature. The life of the
hydraulic fluid is cut in half with just 1%
sludge concentration because contamina-
tion makes the oxidation rate double.
Metal particulate, such as copper, iron,
nickel, brass, and steel, are known to pro-
mote catalytic reactions and accelerate oil
oxidation. This catalytic reaction is further
enhanced by the presence of water. In the
first stages of oxidation, both the viscosity
and the neutralization number of the oil
will increase. The neutralization number is
commonly used to determine when oil oxi-
dation has progressed to the point where
the oil becomes aggressive and should be
replaced. The varnishes that are formed
9
during oxidation will deposit on shiny
metal surfaces, such as directional valve
spools and the internals of servo valves.
This will result in “sticky” operation and/or
sluggish performance. The sticking of
directional valve spools causes more elec-
trical solenoid failures than all other caus-
es combined.
SETTING TARGET
CLEANLINESS LEVELS
Target cleanliness levels, in this context,
represent the maximum contamination
levels at which hydraulic fluids can be
expected to function as designed and
achieve optimum equipment performance
and reliability. The cleanliness “target”
must meet the requirements of the most
sensitive component in the system com-
bined with system pressure and safety
considerations.
The consequences of failing to set target
cleanliness levels for every hydraulic sys-
tem, and not exceeding those targets, is
reduced system life, decreased fluid life,
and greater safety risks. Down time and
overall system operation and maintenance
costs will also be higher.
Particle contamination is typically made
up of sand, silica, loam, tiny metal parti-
cles, wood fibers, rags, oil absorbent
materials, or any other solid material that
can be broken down into small particles.
Particulate can cause problems, such as
blocking small openings, if the particles
are too large. This can be especially harm-
ful if the opening is a control orifice. If the
particle is about the same size as the
clearances in pumps or motors, it may
enter the opening and then become
trapped between the moving surfaces.
This can cause abrasive wear, which pro-
duces more particulate that further con-
taminates the system.
It is also important to recognize that very
few particles are round. They are usually
irregular in shape and have many sharp
edges that create more system wear as
 LUBRICATION

they are circulated. The particulates lodge further degrade the system. This has a
themselves in valves, which can result in negative impact on system control per-
burned out electrical solenoids. formance and repeatability. The velocity
Very small particles referred to as silt through temporary or permanent orifices
flow through the system without much changes with plugging or erosion as the
restriction. Due to high velocity streams size of the hole changes. As the hole
and directional changes in flow, impinge- changes in size, the velocity of the fluid
ment of these particles on surfaces causes and particulate passing through it also
erosion that increases the clearance changes. Velocity change results in a
between moving parts and in control ori- change in the erosion dynamics.
fices. This promotes internal leakage and The size of particulate contamination
generates additional wear particles that varies from visible materials to the unaided

PUMPS <140 bar 140 - 210 bar 210+ bar

Pressure <2,000 psi 2,000 - 3,000 psi 3,000+ bar
Fixed Gear 20/18/15 19/17/15 18/16/13
Fixed Vane 20/18/15 19/17/14 18/16/13
Fixed Piston 19/17/15 18/16/14 17/15/13
Variable Vane 19/17/15 18/16/14 17/15/13
Variable Piston 18/16/14 17/15/13 16/14/12
VALVES <210 bar 210+ bar
Pressure <3,000 psi 3,000+ psi
Directional (solenoid) 20/18/15 19/17/14
Pressure Control (modulating) 19/17/14 19/17/14
Flow Controls (standard) 19/17/14 19/17/14
Check Valves 20/18/15 20/18/15
Cartridge Valves 20/18/15 19/17/14
Screw-in Valves 18/16/13 17/15/12
Prefill 20/18/15 19/17/14
Load-sensing Directional Valves 18/16/14 17/15/13
Hydraulic Remote Controls 18/16/13 17/15/12
Proportional Directional (throttle valves) 18/16/13 17/15/12*
Proportional Pressure Controls 18/16/13 17/15/12*
Proportional Cartridge Valves 18/16/13 17/15/12*
Proportional Screw-In Valves 18/16/13 17/15/12
Servo Valves 16/14/11* 15/13/10*
ACTUATORS <140 bar 140 - 210 bar 210+ bar
Pressure <2,000 bar 2,000 - 3,000 psi 3,000+ psi
Cylinders 20/18/15 20/18/15 20/18/15
Vane Motors 20/18/15 19/17/14 18/16/13
Axial Piston Motors 19/17/14 18/16/13 17/15/12
Gear Motors 21/19/17 20/18/15 19/17/14
Radial Piston Motors 20/18/14 19/17/13 18/16/13
Swash Plate Design Motors 18/16/14 17/15/13 16/14/12*
HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSIONS <210 bar 210 - 280 bar 280+ bar
Pressure <3,000 psi 3,000 - 4,000 psi 4,000+ psi

Hydrostatic Transmissions (in-loop fluids) 17/15/13 16/14/12* 16/14/11*

BEARINGS

Ball Bearing Systems 15/13/11*

Roller Bearing Systems 16/14/12*
Journal Bearings (high speed) 17/15/13
Journal Bearings (low speed) 18/16/14
General Industrial Gearboxes 17/15/13

*Requires precise sampling practices to verify cleanliness levels.

Table 1 - Cleanliness Code Chart, courtesy of Vickers, Corp.

10
 LUBRICATION

eye (approximately 40 micron or larger) to
microscopic sizes of less than 1 micron.
Particles visible to the unaided eye are
normally larger than the clearances of
most hydraulic system components.
Because those particles that will gradually
degrade the system are not visible, a visu-
al inspection of the fluid is a very poor test
of cleanliness.
TARGET CLEANLINESS
Typically, cleanliness targets are
expressed as a range. First, it must be
understood that cleanliness is not a gener-
al term used to describe the state of a
hydraulic system. Cleanliness is a quanti-
tative value based on the design and com-
ponents used in a particular hydraulic sys-
tem. The current international cleanliness
standard for lubricating or hydraulic fluid is
defined by (International Standards
Organization) ISO 4406.
Work is being done on the ISO
Cleanliness Standard, but supporting data
for the new standard does not presently
exist. Therefore, for this article the infor-
mation reflects the existing ISO 4406
Standard. As the new standard is devel-
oped and better supported, it should
supercede ISO 4406.
The number of a particular sized particle
in a stated amount of fluid (1 ml) deter-
mines the cleanliness of the fluid. The
number of particles must be determined
using an approved laboratory particle
counting procedure. This number of parti-
cles per milliliter of fluid is then plotted on
a cleanliness chart. The chart has a range
code that starts at 0 and goes to 25.
However, anything beyond 17 is unsuitable
for use in nationally published standards.
DETERMINING TARGET CLEANLINESS
CODES
There are simply too many extenuating
circumstances for any governing body to
make definitive, absolute statements con-
cerning target cleanliness codes. There is
no “official” method for determining the tar-
get; however, the following cleanliness tar-
get worksheet, shown in Figure 2, is a
good starting point.

FACTOR
SAFETY & ECONOMIC CONCERNS (Mandatory) 6 A: ______
6
PRESSURE:
Over 5,000 psi 4
3,001 - 5,000 psi 3
1,000 - 3,000 psi 2
Under 1,000 psi 1
Pressure Factor: B: ______
COMPONENTS:
Servo Valves 4
Variable Piston Pump, Proportional Valve 3
PC Flow Control, Fixed Piston Pump, Vane Pump 2
All Others 1
Components Factor: C: ______
FLUIDS:
Water Bearing Fluids or Phosphate Ester 1
All Others 0
Fluids Factor: D: ______
TOTAL OF A-D: E: ______

Conversion of Fluid Cleanliness Factor to ISO 4406 Code:

5 = 19/17/15 7 = 18/16/14 9 = 17/15/13 11 = 15/14/11 13 = 14/12/10
6 = 19/17/14 8 = 18/16/13 10 = 16/14/12 12 = 15/13/10 14 = 14/11/09

Figure 2 - Cleanliness Target Worksheet

11
 LUBRICATION
METHOD FOR READING
CLEANLINESS CODE CHART
Locate the particle size across the bot-
tom of the chart; move up the right side of
the chart to the number of particles in the
sample for that size, then move straight
across to the left side of the chart to the
corresponding range code number. For
the example sample fluid shown in Table
2, the 2 micron (µm) size is located at the
bottom of the chart. Move up the right side
of the chart to the point representing 5,120
particles. Move directly left of that point to
the range code of 20. Following this same
method for 5 and 15 micron particle sizes,
the range codes are 14 and 12 respective-
ly. The cleanliness code for this sample
then becomes 20/14/12.
The previous ISO cleanliness code only
referenced the 5 and 15 micron particle
sizes, so when only two numbers are
given, they will represent only the 5 and 15
micron particles. However, the current
ISO 4406 code, shown in Table 2, consists
of three numbers that represent the 2, 5,
and 15 micron particle sizes.
FAILURE CAUSING
CONDITIONS
In order to achieve maximum perform-
ance from a hydraulic system, the target
cleanliness level must be established dur-
ing the design phase of the system. If the
TYPICALLY
RATING
WRITTEN
Very Dirty 24/22/20
Typical "new"
19/18/14
oil cleanliness
Suitable for turbines 17/16/13
Servo valves in high
15/13/10
pressure applications
Table 2 - Typical Particle Counting Data
equipment for maintaining fluid cleanli-
ness is not included in the design phase, it
may be very difficult and expensive to
achieve the fluid cleanliness necessary for
optimal performance.
A system that includes servo valves
demands methods of filtration and filter
locations that insure fluid cleanliness.
Typical cleanliness levels for servo valves
are ISO 15/13/10. It is usually more eco-
nomical to install the equipment necessary
to achieve this cleanliness level during the
design phase of the equipment.
If a reservoir is located in a dusty envi-
ronment and the vent is unfiltered, fluid
contamination will increase with every rise
and fall of the fluid level in the reservoir. In
some cases, this one seemingly small
design flaw can eventually cause total sys-
tem failure.
Inadequate temperature control can
cause chemical breakdown of the
hydraulic fluid and alter the viscosity. The
changes caused by excess heat in the
fluid will cause reduced oil film thickness
and permit moving parts to wear more rap-
idly. This will increase the concentration of
particles in the system causing a compo-
nent or the entire system to fail. The parti-
cle size distribution is such that the popu-
lation of smaller particles is greater than
the larger particles. Consequently, the
thinner oil film means more damaging par-
ticles are present in fluid of the same
cleanliness level.
2 MICRON 5 MICRON 15 MICRON
24 22 20
19 18 14
17 16 13
15 13 10
12
 LUBRICATION
IMPROPER FILTRATION
Improper filtration includes, but is not
limited to, incorrect filter placement, inade-
quate filter flow, incorrect filter media, and
incorrect filter matrix design or construc-
tion. There is a seemingly logical tendency
for hydraulic system users to want to pro-
tect the system by placing a filter on the
suction side of the pump. The thought is
that this should effectively keep the partic-
ulate that has settled out in the reservoir
from being pulled into the pump and circu-
lated throughout the system. Current pub-
lished standards discourage this practice.
Although placing a filter on the suction
side of the pump is seemingly logical, it is
not the thing to do. If the filter is even
remotely efficient, it will eventually plug. It
does not even have to plug entirely to dam-
age the system. If it restricts the flow to the
pump at all, cavitation will occur and the
pump will be damaged. This will create
metal particulate that will circulate through
the system doing damage as it goes along
and creating more metal particulate. A
large portion of it will eventually return to
the reservoir where it will settle and then
be drawn back to the pump suction filter.
This will continue to escalate into a very
serious problem.
HYDRAULIC HYDRAULIC
RESERVOIR RESERVOIR
HYDRAULIC
PUMP
PRESSURE
RELIEF
VALVE
(A)
Figure 3 - Improper vs. Proper Filter Location
13
Filtration is necessary to achieve target
cleanliness levels within a hydraulic fluid
system. For maximum efficiency, there are
specific locations where filters should be
located such as pressure lines, return
lines, or re-circulating lines. If the filters are
not placed properly in the system, removal
of contaminants will not be effective. Filter
placement is categorized by the three
major functions they perform: ingression
prevention, system cleanliness mainte-
nance, and component isolation. Any com-
ponent that has the ability upon failure to
cause a safety hazard, or is a critical func-
tion component, should have an isolation
filter placed upstream of that component.
PROPER FILTRATION
Pumps naturally produce particulate dur-
ing normal operation. Pumps also operate
with the potential of producing large
amounts of contamination if an internal fail-
ure occurs. The pressure line filter should
be located just downstream of the pump
discharge as illustrated in Figure 3(B).
(Figure 3(A) demonstrates the improper
location of a filter.) A return line filter is nec-
essary to capture particles generated by
internal wear and collected on cylinder
rods while extended.
HYDRAULIC
PUMP PRESSURE
RELIEF
VALVE
PRESSURE
FILTER
(B)
 LUBRICATION

HYDRAULIC
RESERVOIR

HYD.
PUMP

RETURN PRESSURE
LINE RELIEF
FILTER VALVE

PRESSURE
FILTER

Figure 4 - Demonstration of Valves

Recirculating filters are included with
recirculating pumps in specific applications
where the achievement of the target clean-
liness cannot be accomplished without a
circulation loop or additional confidence is
required. Shown in Figure 4, the recircula-
tion loop can also be used when filling or
topping off the reservoir and it can be used
to clean up the oil while the system is inac-
tive. It is also the best location for heat
exchangers and filters on systems using
variable displacement pumps.
Proportional valves and servo valves are
constructed with very close tolerances
between their metering and moving parts.
Because they have to react to very small
changes in pilot flows or electrical signal
changes, small particles, called silt, can
restrict movement of the parts or even
cause valves to completely fail. In this
case, a failure could be defined as any
change in performance that results in a
reduction in productivity. This is demon-
strated in Figure 5.
High collapse elements (>2,000 psi)
should be used in all non-bypass housings.
Non-bypass filters should be used
upstream of individual valves or banks of
valves to protect the valves against pump
failure. The filter, shown in Figure 6(A), is
blocked off resulting in a differential pres-
sure increase and/or flow stop until the filter
is changed. Figure 6(B) shows a bypass fil-
ter arrangement. When the filter plugs, the
pressure overrides the spring pressure,
unseats the ball check, and allows fluid to
bypass the plugged filter.
A very common mistake made in select-
ing isolation filters is to designate a filter
with finer filtration media than the system’s
main filter. This causes shorter isolation fil-
ter life and service that is more frequent.
Each time systems are opened for mainte-
nance or service the potential for contami-
nation increases. To properly maintain effi-
cient filtration of a hydraulic fluid system the
target cleanliness levels must be estab-
lished and followed for the entire system.

14
 LUBRICATION

SECONDARY
RECIRCULATING FILTER
PRIMARY
RECIRCULATING FILTER

RECIRCULATION PUMP
(KIDNEY LOOP) HYD.
PUMP

RETURN
LINE PRESSURE
FILTER RELIEF
VALVE

PRESSURE
FILTER

Figure 5 - Demonstration of Recirculating Loop

IN-LINE SPRING-LOADED
IN-LINE BYPASS
FILTER FILTER

(A) (B)

Figure 6 - Non-bypass and Bypass Filtration

PREDICTIVE OR PREVENTIVE participant. It is vital that the introduction of

MAINTENANCE
Hydraulic fluid system failures occur in
large part due to inadequate predictive or
preventive maintenance and from a lack of
education about cleanliness. The success
of any hydraulic fluid cleanliness program is
dependent on the knowledge level of each
new oil into a system be done in accor-
dance with system cleanliness standards:
• Opening to the system must be
clean.
• Transfer device for the fluid must
be clean.
• Surface of the new oil container
must be clean.

15
 LUBRICATION
• Oil must be filtered to the target
cleanliness standards set for the
system before it is introduced.
The employee responsible for collecting
samples must be aware of the potential for
contamination during the sampling proce-
dure. The use of sampling ports and hoses
will help minimize the introduction of exter-
nal contamination. Maintenance employ-
ees involved in housekeeping activities
need to be aware of the potential for sys-
tem contamination during area wash
downs and clean-up. Maintenance person-
nel must realize that if a component expe-
riences catastrophic failure during use, it
has probably introduced metal particulate
to the system. The process of changing
that component will also introduce even
more contamination.
As a crude first line of defense, hydraulic
systems are often equipped with magnets,
usually in the reservoir. These magnets
are simply to help keep the chunks of fer-
rous metal out of the pump inlet and from
being deposited throughout the system.
Magnets are a good indicator of the
amount of magnetic metallic particulate
that is in the fluid. Too often these mag-
nets are forgotten and are never even
examined. They should be examined peri-
odically and used as a good indicator of
system wear. If proper fluid cleanliness
has been maintained, the magnets should
remain clean and free of metal particulate.
MONITORING FLUID
CONDITIONS
Once the hydraulic fluid system has
been properly designed, installed, flushed,
and filled with clean hydraulic fluid, it
becomes necessary to determine if the
system is working properly. This process
is referred to as condition monitoring.
Table 3 shows some guidelines for condi-
tion monitoring of a hydraulic fluid system.
Proper equipment design and installa-
tion are necessary to most economically
maintained fluid cleanliness. The design
16
must take into account the required clean-
liness of the individual components and
proper filtration to insure appropriate
cleanliness. However, if the design is ade-
quate and the installation acceptable for
proper operation and system cleanliness,
but the system is not monitored for actual
condition of the hydraulic fluid, the entire
effort is wasted. Hydraulic pumps and
components generate particulate naturally
during operation. Wear occurs as the sys-
tem performs the intended tasks. If the
results of this wear are not monitored and
the contamination levels controlled, sys-
tem failure is inevitable.
There are several different methods of
monitoring fluid cleanliness. Where, when,
and how the fluid is monitored determines
the method. Where the fluid sample is col-
lected, or where the monitoring is done is
determined by the information desired.
For proper system operation, bulk stor-
age sampling must be a part of maintain-
ing hydraulic fluid cleanliness in a system.
Although hydraulic fluid manufacturers
make serious efforts to produce clean flu-
ids, they will become contaminated
through handling, transfer, and storage.
Pipes or hoses, tank cars, drums, and
transfer pumps all provide sources of fluid
contamination. Typical cleanliness levels
of new hydraulic fluids from reputable sup-
pliers statistically run about ISO
Cleanliness Levels of 17/16/14 or worse.
These numbers virtually eliminate 3 levels
of system sensitivity classifications from
use with this fluid as delivered to the cus-
tomer site.
Adding to the problem of delivered
hydraulic fluid cleanliness is the casual
approach many users take to bulk storage
contamination control. Open drums of
hydraulic fluid with hand pumps inserted
can be found in process areas, in mainte-
nance shops, and near operating equip-
ment.
Sampling of the fluid in the drum should
be accomplished by using a vacuum pump
to draw a sample up out of the drum or
 LUBRICATION

sampling from the pump outlet. Proper
handling of bulk hydraulic fluid requires
the filtration of the fluid as it is being intro-
duced into the system. Fluid additions or
introducing fluid into a new system should
be done within the target cleanliness lev-
els determined for the operating system.
Portable filtration systems are available
that meet national or international stan-
dards for cleanliness. Figure 7 is an
example of such a portable filtration
device.

ALLOWABLE VARIATION AND

CONDITION STANDARD
SUGGESTED CORRECTIVE ACTION
ASTM D95 or Reclaim or remove water if over 0.05% (500
Water in Fluid
D1744 ppm). Locate and eliminate source of water.
Neutral Number Change of 0.2 above original, then be alert.
ASTM D974
(Total Acid Number) Change out if increase is above 0.5.
Increase of 10% could indicate onset of
oxidation or mixing of fluids of higher
Viscosity ASTM D445
viscosity. Determine which and take action
as required.
Two or more ISO ranges above target,
ISO 4406, ANSI
Particles check photomicrograph or microscopically
T2.24.1-1991
check for the presence of bright metals.
Hazy or cloudy appearance indicates the
Visual None presence of water or fine particles. Perform
quantitative analysis.
Oils exhibiting separation times greater than
Poor Demulsibility ASTM D1401
30 minutes should be refortified or replaced.
Fluid is probably oxidized. Perform
Burnt Odor None quantitative analysis such as RBOT (ASTM
D2272) or infrared analysis.
Do not use Specto for any wear metal
trending or analysis. Spectro analysis is
Wear Metals Spectro
particle size limited and will not see any
meaningful particles relative to wear.
Benchmark additive levels in new fluid.
Spectro or When any element of the additive package
Additive Package
Infrared loses 25% or more of the original value,
contact refiner.

Table 3 - Condition Monitoring Guidelines

17
 LUBRICATION
Figure 7 - Portable Filtration Device
SAMPLING POINTS AND
METHODS
In an operating system, the point at
which a sample is extracted is determined
by the desired information. Often the sam-
ple must be drawn from a pressure line.
This is done when specific information
about the condition of the pump, effective-
ness of filters, and levels of contamination
18
entering components is desired. The sam-
ple should be representative of the fluid
flowing through the system during normal
operation. The sample must also be taken
with the system operating and the fluid
flowing at normal operating temperature
and flow rate. The most beneficial point is
where the fluid flow is turbulent. Turbulent
flow insures even distribution of the con-
taminants throughout the fluid sample.
 LUBRICATION
Samples taken from return lines must
follow the same requirements as pressure
lines. This method of fluid sampling allows
for monitoring of contamination generation
by specific components. Fluid sampling of
the return line provides the overall indica-
tion of system contamination. The sample
must be taken upstream of the return line
filter to insure there is a representative
sample of the entire system.
If the hydraulic system does not have
provisions for extracting fluid samples
from pressure or return lines, then the
sample must be taken from the system
reservoir. Reservoir samples will provide
information on fluid viscosity, acid levels,
water content, and depletion. The samples
will not provide accurate indications of
particle contamination. Particulate in the
fluid reservoir will naturally settle to the
bottom. Residence time will determine
how many particles settle. The reservoir
will contain a particle distribution that will
vary in size and concentration at different
depths in the reservoir.
Any time a system is opened to the
atmosphere the potential for additional
contamination exists. Very few reservoirs
are equipped with sample points or valves.
This means the reservoir is typically
opened to extract the sample. This permits
outside contamination to enter the system.
The sample bottle or container is then
submerged into the fluid providing a path
for contaminant to travel into the system.
Additionally, the reservoir typically con-
tains particulate from the operating system
and any particulate that may have been
present from construction and assembly.
This means a true representation of the
operating system will not be present in the
fluid sample. It will hold contaminants that
may have originated during construction,
were stirred up during the sampling
process, and not contain particles that
were filtered out by the return line filter.
Therefore, sampling from the reservoir is
the least reliable point at which to sample
the fluid.
19
Another type of sampling is online sam-
pling. Online monitoring of hydraulic fluid
cleanliness has certain benefits over sam-
pling methods discussed earlier. The
major advantage of online sampling is the
greater accuracy of the report since there
is no opportunity for external contaminates
to be introduced to the count. Using this
method, frequently it is not necessary to
even remove the fluid from the system.
Another major advantage of online sam-
pling is that the results are delivered with-
in seconds of actual sampling. Using a
sampling process requires the sample to
be transported to a remote laboratory
either on- or off-site to a vendor laborato-
ry. Extracting a sample, transportation,
handling at the laboratory, and actual test-
ing all increase the potential for particulate
contamination.
FLUID ANALYSIS SERVICES
Unless the hydraulic system user has an
analysis laboratory on-site, hydraulic fluid
samples will normally be sent to off-site
labs for analysis. The lab report should
provide the following information:
• Performance against target clean-
liness results for all three particle
sizes-2µm, 5µm, and 15µm
• Particle count summary
• Plotted cleanliness code chart of
target levels and actual levels
• Particle count summary of previ-
ous samples and current sample
• Water concentrations
• Viscosity ratings
• Photo analysis (color) and descrip-
tion
• Historical information comparisons
of present sample to previous
sample
• Spectro analysis for additives
trending
• SEM/EDX analysis (Scanning
Electron Microscope/Energy
Dispersive X-ray) including written
explanation of analysis
 LUBRICATION
• Written recommendations and
summary of the analysis
The actual data from a lab report should
provide information showing actual fluid
condition as compared to target levels.
The format of the data should be readable,
clear, and usable by all parties involved in
the management, operation, and mainte-
nance of the hydraulic fluid system.
The frequency and depth of a report is
determined by the application. If the
results of the analysis indicate the system
is operating within the target cleanliness
levels, then the next sample analysis may
not need to be as in-depth or detailed. If
the analysis indicates target values have
been exceeded, then corrective action
should be taken to control those limits. It
would be helpful to have a detailed analy-
sis following corrective action to deter-
mine if the desired results have been
achieved.
The information from the analysis can
provide additional service if it is used as
part of a statistical process control (SPC)
program. The advantage of SPC is the
indications shown from historical data as
plotted on trending charts. Taking advan-
tage of this information can improve the
operating efficiency and productivity of the
hydraulic system.
To take full advantage of the fluid analy-
20
sis, everybody that can impact the test
results should see the results. This
includes, but is not limited to, the following
personnel: purchasing agent, project engi-
neer, process engineer, operator, sample
collector, housekeeping or clean-up per-
sonnel, and maintenance mechanics.
Anyone that can have a direct impact on
the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid or sys-
tem should be trained and knowledgeable
in the methods and procedures for main-
taining hydraulic fluid cleanliness.
SUMMARY
Over 80% of all hydraulic failures are
preventable if you do not use contaminat-
ed fluid. The argument can be made that
maintaining proper hydraulic fluid cleanli-
ness has the potential to reduce downtime
by approximately 80%; thus, having a
major impact on profitability.
Hydraulic fluid cleanliness is the weak
link in the progressive chain of application
and technology that has raised the science
of hydraulic fluid power. Albert Einstein
once expressed a concern that the applied
science of hydraulics offered us little hap-
piness. Today, that situation could no
longer exist if we learn to apply a system-
atic and comprehensive method to main-
taining fluid cleanliness.