All Airoflex dumpers run on hydraulic power. Choosing the correct hydraulic oil is important for the proper operation of your dumper.
Oil Types
There are (4) four main types of oils: Mineral oil, synthetic oil, water-based oil, and biodegradable oil.
MINERAL OIL: Mineral oils are the standard for most applications. They are made from refining crude oil and are versatile and cost-effect. Mineral oils are recommended for use in all Airoflex hydraulic cylinders.
SYNTHETIC OIL: Synthetic oils are manmade and can offer a variety of increase performance characteristic compared to mineral oils. Synthetic oils are NOT compatible with the seal material is Airoflex cylinders and should be avoided.
WATER-BASED OIL: Water-based oils contain high amounts of water and are used in applications where fire or environmental hazards are a concern. Airoflex cylinders and power units are not designed to operate with water-based oils. If you application requires these types of oils contact Airoflex for options.
BIODEGRADABLE OIL: Biodegradable oils are made from synthetic esters or from natural sources such as vegetable oil. These oils are typically used around bodies of water or where environmental contamination is a concern. Contact Airoflex before using biodegradable oils.
SEE BELOW FOR A LIST OF OIL TYPES THAT ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AIROFLEX CYLINDER SEALS.
Non-Compatible oils
- HEPG (Polyslkyleneglycol Base)
- HEPG (Polyslkyleneglycol Base)
- HEPR (Other Base Liquid – Primarily Polyalphaolefins)
- HFC (Glycol Solutions, Polyalkylene Glycol Solutions or Water Glycols)
- Typically > 35% Water Content
- HFD-R (Synthetic Phosphate Esters)
- HFD-U (Synthetic Anhydrous Liquids Other Than Phosphaste Esters)
Generally: Airoflex cylinder seals are not compatible with:
- Hot Water / Steam
- Strong Acids / Strong Alkalis
OIL TEmperatures
Airoflex dumpers and portable tippers operate in a wide range of environments and weather conditions. Always consult with a local oil supplier or Airoflex to determine the correct oil grade for your locations and application. The oil temperate range for Airoflex cylinder seals is -40 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures for power units and proper operation may vary from this range. Coolers and oil heaters should be used for extreme temperature locations or high use applications.
Cylinder Types
Standard Cylinder: Standard cylinders are typically larger (12-16″ diameter) and used on A-frame style dumpers. All current seals on standard cylinders are made from acetal plastic or thermoset polyether urethane. older model cylinders or cylinders that have not been serviced in a long time may have different seal styles and materials. All standard cylinders should use petroleum/mineral based oil with a viscosity of ISO 32-46. Oil viscosity may vary depending on dumper location. See figure 1.
Inverted Cylinders: Inverted cylinders as shown in figure 2, are typically used on trailer only tippers or on all portable models. Inverted cylinders should use mineral base oils with a 150 SSU viscosity at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. SAE 10 or SAE 20 grade oils are acceptable.
Hydraulic Maintenance
- Oil filters should be checked monthly and replaced often. Regularly changing oil filter can greatly increase the life of the hydraulic oil and the operation of the truck dumper.
- Oil should be checked quarterly to ensure it is in good condition. Signs of bad oil include, discoloration, water, separation, debris, burnt smell.
- The oil level should also be checked to ensure proper function of the power unit. The oil level should be check and filled (if necessary) when the dumper is in the down position and has been de energized.
- Old oil should be recycled or properly disposed of. Never dump old oil onto the ground.
- When refilling the oil tank, ensure that the same type of oil is being replaced. A new type of oil may not mix with residual oil in the and cause the unit to malfunction.
- Contact your local oil supplier or Airoflex with any questions about changing or inspecting hydraulic oil.
Hydraulic Oil Safety
Airoflex truck dumpers and cylinders operate with pressured hydraulic oil. pressures typically range from 500 to 1,500psi. Pressured oil is dangerous. High temperature and high-pressure oil can cause serious injury if not handled correctly. Any personnel working with a dumper hydraulic system should have/use proper training, tool, and lock-out procedure.
Have questions about the maintenance of your Airoflex truck dumper? Contact us here or give us a call at 563-264-8066.