Performance Comparison of Non-Aqueous Fire-Resistant Hydraulic Fluids
SourceThe performance of a hydraulic fluid has a significant impact on the real-world behavior of the fluid in critical applications, such as electro-hydraulic control systems in nuclear facilities. This paper examines some of the critical performance parameters that determine the suitability of a fluid in these demanding environments. A representative selection of non-aqueous fluid types were chosen based on their individual chemistry and that are in use within industry today. These fluids were then subjected to a series of performance tests based on measuring their flammability, their lubricity, and their ability to function as an effective hydraulic fluid under varying conditions. The results are presented and explored in detail, with recommendations as to their suitability for use within high-risk application areas.