To change hydraulic oil plays a crucial role in the operation of industrial equipment, as it facilitates power transmission, reduces friction between components and helps dissipate the heat generated by the system.
Proper hydraulic oil maintenance is essential to prevent failures, avoid downtime and extend machinery life.
How to change hydraulic oil step by step
The following is a detailed guide on how to change hydraulic oil safely and efficiently.
Preparing the equipment for hydraulic oil change
Before performing the hydraulic oil change, it is essential to properly prepare the equipment and ensure the safety of the procedure. The necessary elements are listed below:
- Personal protective equipment (PPE):
- Oil and chemical resistant gloves to protect the skin.
- Safety glasses to avoid splashes in the eyes.
- Suitable work clothes to prevent direct contact with the oil.
- Safety footwear to avoid accidents in case of spills.
- Tools and materials needed:
- Suitable wrenches (fixed or adjustable) to remove the drain plug and filters.
- Collection containers for used oil, avoiding spills.
- Funnel and hose for easy filling of new oil.
- New hydraulic filters, if replacement is necessary.
- Wipes and absorbent material to clean up accidental spills.
Step-by-step procedure to change hydraulic oil
- Drainage of old oil:
- Locate the hydraulic system drain plug.
- Position the collection container under the cap to avoid spillage.
- Open the plug and allow the oil to drain completely. It is advisable to let the system sit for a few minutes to ensure complete removal of contaminated oil.
- Replacement of filters (if the equipment uses them):
- Identify the location of the hydraulic filters.
- Remove old filters and clean the contact area to avoid contamination.
- Install the new filters making sure they are correctly adjusted.
- System cleaning (optional but recommended):
- Cleaning helps to remove debris, contaminants and possible sediments accumulated in the system.
- A specialized flushing fluid can be used to ensure that the system is free of contaminants prior to adding new oil.
- Filling with new oil:
- Verify the type of hydraulic oil recommended by the equipment manufacturer.
- Use a funnel to facilitate filling and avoid spills.
- Add new oil up to the level indicated by the manufacturer without overfilling.
- Start-up and verification:
- Turn on the equipment and let it run at low pressure for a few minutes.
- Check for oil leaks around the system.
- Verify that the pressure and performance of the equipment are adequate.
How to change hydraulic oil step by step in a safe way
To change hydraulic oil safely and responsibly, the following recommendations should be followed:
- Handle used oil with caution and dispose of it according to environmental regulations.
- Avoid contamination of the new oil by using clean tools and ensuring that the filling containers are free of debris.
- Store hydraulic oil properly in a cool, dry place to avoid premature degradation.
Recommended frequency to change hydraulic oil
Hydraulic oil change should be performed according to the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations and operating conditions.
In general, most manufacturers suggest changing the hydraulic oil every 1,000 to 2,000 hours of operation.
In high-demand systems, some oils can last up to 4,000 hours, provided that periodic fluid analysis is performed.
Why it is necessary to change hydraulic oil
Over time, hydraulic oil degrades due to various factors such as oxidation, varnish formation and contaminant accumulation. This can lead to:
- Loss of efficiency. Contaminated oil does not lubricate properly, affecting system performance.
- Premature component wear. The presence of abrasive particles can accelerate the wear of pumps, valves and other critical elements.
- Costly breakdowns. Lack of maintenance can lead to severe mechanical failures and costly downtime.
A regular and proper hydraulic oil change not only prolongs the life of your equipment, but also improves its efficiency and reduces long-term operating costs.
Recommended products to change hydraulic oil
At American Petroleum, we offer a wide range of hydraulic oils designed to optimize the performance of your machinery. Our products meet the highest quality standards and are formulated to provide:
- Increased protection against wear and corrosion.
- Excellent thermal stability and oxidation resistance.
- Improved filtration capacity to reduce contaminants.
Our private line, American Quality Lubricants, includes the following hydraulic oil options in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean:
- AW 32. Low viscosity, ideal for cold or moderate temperatures, with excellent oxidation stability and foam control.
- AW 46. Medium viscosity, suitable for moderate loads and variable temperatures, minimizing wear in pumps and valves.
- AW 68. Higher viscosity and oxidation resistance, ideal for industrial machinery and high performance systems.
- AW 100. High viscosity, designed for demanding conditions and high temperatures, with high resistance to thermal degradation.
- AW 150. Maximum viscosity, recommended for equipment subjected to high loads and extreme temperatures, offering superior protection against wear and corrosion.
In addition, we have options of the recognized brands Petro-Canada and Phillips 66, guaranteeing a solution for each type of operation.
At American Petroleum, your equipment is in good hands. If you need advice on the ideal hydraulic oil for your operation, our team of experts is ready to help. You can also find more information about our products here or contact your Account Representative directly.