Why Biobased Hydraulic Fluids?

It is estimated that over 100 million gallons of fluids leak from hydraulic machinery and other lubricant equipment in North America each year! Leaking fluids from equipment used in sensitive geographical areas can have long-term negative consequences on the environment.

The 2002 US Farm Bill Act mandates government agencies to purchase environmentally safe, biobased (vegetable oil) lubricants. The challenge presented to a formulator is maintaining the performance levels while achieving biodegradability.

A solution developed with assistance from Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. LP, is the use of Synfluid™ high quality Polyalphaolefins (PAOs) combined with biobased oils and specially designed additives. While typical hydraulic fluids are not biodegradable, this new system achieves the Ultimate Biodegradation rating (ASTM D5864 — PW1) and even improves several performance parameters, not previously attainable.

Benefits of the new system are a much higher Viscosity Index (VI), superior Pour Points, and improved Low Temperature Fluidity, all of which contribute to improved energy efficiency. These new formulations allow a full range of ISO viscosity grades.

Note:  This same technology can also be beneficial for biobased gear lubricants, chain and cable lubricants, greases, and other applications for equipment used in sensitive environmental areas.

The information on this page is adapted from an article published in Lubes & Greases, an international magazine, from October to March 2003-2004, highlighting both the technology developed between RLI and Chevron Phillips Chemical along with the advanced performance feature set of biobased lubricant technology compared to conventional petroleum lubricants.