Hydraulic oil - Oils

Hydraulic Oils – What Are They Used For? 

Many drivers have heard of hydraulic oils, yet few truly understand what they are and their specific applications. As the name suggests, hydraulic oils are designed for hydraulic systems and damping mechanisms. These fluids are crucial for various vehicles, machinery, and equipment. Hydraulic system oil is characterised by its incompressibility. But what does that mean exactly? This feature allows hydraulic oil to be compressed under very high pressure, generating substantial force within a relatively small drive system.  

Due to this incompressibility, hydraulic oil also coats various metal components during operation. This is highly beneficial as it significantly reduces wear and tear. However, one drawback of hydraulic oils is their tendency to become contaminated over time. To counter this, vehicles and machines requiring hydraulic oil are often designed with protective measures or placed separately from other components. 

The range of hydraulic oils available on the market is extensive, with different products offering specific properties. Key factors include the temperature and pressure conditions under which they perform best. It’s essential to choose the right hydraulic oil that matches the requirements of your equipment. Mineral-based hydraulic oils are the most commonly used, but synthetic oils are gaining market share every year. The primary difference between these two types is the base oil – the fundamental component that forms the core of the product. 

Find Hydraulic Oils at IC24.UK! 

Choosing the right product can be challenging, especially if you’re unsure which specifications to consider. At IC24.UK, we offer a wide selection of hydraulic oils, ensuring you find the perfect match for your needs. We stock hydraulic oils from top manufacturers, including Shell, Mobil, Orlen, Castrol, Revline, Comma, and Total. Each product listing provides detailed viscosity classification information to help you make an informed decision.

Our hydraulic oils come in a variety of packaging sizes. For passenger cars and small machinery, a 1-litre or 5-litre container is usually sufficient. However, for commercial vehicles and larger machinery, a larger volume is often required. That’s why we also offer 20-litre containers, ensuring long-term usability. 

Additionally, our range includes high-quality LHM oils, which are specifically designed for vehicles with hydropneumatic suspension systems. These oils are especially popular among Citroën owners, as this brand has been a long-time advocate of such suspension technology.

How to Choose the Best Hydraulic Oil? 

When selecting the right hydraulic oil, consider its viscosity rating and the working conditions it is best suited for. The viscosity should be appropriate for the current season. For winter conditions, an oil with a viscosity class of 48 is recommended, while for summer use in higher temperatures, a class 32 oil is more suitable. 

In the UK, the most popular hydraulic oils are HL, HLP, and HV grades. HL oils are particularly suitable for use in enclosed environments.

Explore the full range at IC24.UK and find the hydraulic oil that best meets your needs. Always check the viscosity rating on the packaging. If you require a high-viscosity oil, opt for mineral-based products. Alternatively, for lower viscosity, synthetic hydraulic oils are the better choice. 

FAQ

What Is the Purpose of Hydraulic Oil? 

Hydraulic oils are functional fluids primarily used in hydraulic and damping systems. They play a crucial role in industrial machinery, mechanical vehicles, and various other equipment. Importantly, hydraulic oil is an incompressible substance, enabling it to be pressurised to extreme levels to generate significant force. 

How Do You Refill Hydraulic Oil in a Jack? 

Refilling hydraulic oil in a jack requires following these steps:
1. Open the pressure release valve.
2. Remove the protective cover shielding the internal components of the jack.
3. Clean the area around the nozzle.
4. Remove the filler cap located beneath the cover.
5. Fill the reservoir with the appropriate hydraulic oil.

Once the reservoir is full, securely tighten the filler cap, reattach the protective cover, and close the valve. The process is straightforward and ensures the proper functioning of your equipment. 

What Should You Consider Before Buying Hydraulic Oil? 

The most critical factor to check when purchasing hydraulic oil is its viscosity. If the viscosity is too low, the oil may lose its lubricating properties quickly, leading to excessive wear and potential damage to system components. Conversely, excessively high viscosity can cause cavitation. It is also essential to consider oxidation resistance and the presence of lubricating additives – the higher the additive content, the better the oil’s lubrication performance.