How To Keep Costs Low When Using Water Glycol

by: Ron Durante, Director – MRO Services

Water glycol is often used in die cast and applications that require fire-proof hydraulic fluid

Water-based hydraulic fluids, such as water glycol, are frequently used for the fire resistant capabilities. Since they tend to be more expensive, proper use and maintenance of the hydraulic fluid is critical to keep costs low. Here are some quick tips for using water glycol in your hydraulic system –

1. Oversize your filters
Water glycol fluids often create higher pressure drops through filters than would be expected from their viscosities. Filters should be oversized by 50-100%.

2. Use distilled water
Water glycol has a thinner lubrication film and higher specific gravity than mineral oil. As a result, particles that would settle or sink in oil may float in the fluid, allowing them to remain mobile and hazardous to components. Therefore, water used for mixing should be neither hard nor soft. Instead, use deionized or distilled water.

3. Control your operating temperatures
To reduce evaporation, keep system operating temperatures under 120 degrees F.

4. Use Teflon seals
Water glycol fluids are compatible with Buna seals, but not items made from polyurethane, leather or cork. Teflon shaft seals work best.

5. Remove sludge regularly
Since materials float in water glycol fluid and don’t sink, they often accumulate tramp oil or sludge on the surface. Skim the surface regularly to remove excess build-up.

6. Sample fluid quarterly
To assure the correct ratio of water to solution is running within the machine, sample your fluid on a quarterly basis. We recommend refract meter or strip testing.

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