Viscosity index is a dimensionless number that represents how the viscosity of a hydraulic fluid changes with temperature. (It also applies to fluids like engine and automatic transmission oils, gear lubricants, and power-steering fluids.) The greater the viscosity index (VI), the smaller the change in fluid viscosity for a given change in temperature, and vice […]
Why is viscosity important in hydraulic fluids?
Viscosity, according to Webster’s Dictionary, is the property of fluids and semi-fluids that defines its internal resistance to flow and shear. Or, in more simple terms, how thick or thin a fluid is. For example, water is less viscous than tar. (Fluids that have no resistance to shear stress are known as ideal fluids or […]
How hydraulic fluids affect energy efficiency
The fluid is a key part of any hydraulic system. It transmits power, lubricates components, transfers heat, acts as a sealing agent, and helps minimize the harmful effects of contamination like dirt and water. And hydraulic fluid has become increasingly important when it comes to overall system efficiency. That’s because OEMs and equipment users are […]
Fluid power spurs ag machinery innovations
Fluid power was well-represented at Agritechnica, the world’s largest agricultural-machinery trade fair held last month in Hannover, Germany. Fluid Power World recently noted that Linde Hydraulics received the Agritechnica Silver Innovation Medal for its HMV105D drive motor. Here are five more companies that earned Agritechnica prizes for new-product developments, centered on fluid power, that offer […]
How do hydraulic cylinders fail—contamination
Today’s fluid-power users, for the most part, are well aware that keeping hydraulic fluid clean is essential in preventing premature failures and unexpected downtime. Nonetheless, contamination remains a major cause of hydraulic-cylinder failure, particularly because it leads to seal failure and leaks. And it can come from several different and unexpected sources. Internal contamination is […]
Perception of China meets reality
Americans like to celebrate successful entrepreneurs who started out with little more than the shirt on their back. But most of us have never heard of Liping Wong. Like a Steve Jobs of the fluid-power world, Mr. Wong started out making pneumatic cylinders in his garage near Shanghai with just two employees. Twenty-five years later […]
Six take-aways from ICUEE 2015
The biennial International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE), held in Louisville, Ky., wrapped up October 1st. Here are six quick observations. 1. Positive reviews. Exhibitors and attendees across the board said the show was a successful endeavor. Record-breaking attendance topped 18,000 this year, up 13% from the 2013 gathering, and 950 exhibitors included more […]