Advisor on the subject of Hydraulic Fluid

Due to this variety of tasks, there are different hydraulic oils depending on the application area. The DIN 51524 standard classifies hydraulic oils by defining minimum requirements.

Hydraulic fluids perform a wide range of tasks. Depending on the application area, these may vary further. Basically, however, the following are the main tasks of hydraulic oils:

• Transmission of power in the hydraulic system
• Lubrication
• Protect against corrosion, wear, and deposits
• Cooling and cleaning In addition

If a hydraulic oil foams, this can be prevented to a certain degree with an antifoam additive. However, it is important to note that more of this additive does not equate to better foaming behavior. Therefore, the unauthorized use of antifoam additives is rather discouraged and it is recommended to change the hydraulic oil completely. 

Foam in the hydraulic system is known to be something that is not desirable. The reason for this is that the foam can cause the oil temperature to heat up unnecessarily. In addition, the foam can cause oil loss, which leads to insufficient lubrication.

No, engine oils should not be used in the hydraulic system because they are designed for different tasks and thus cannot normally perform the tasks of the other.