Hungry for some mind-bending nerdy awesomeness? Grab a plate, Holmes, we’re about to serve up a small portion of luke warm science. Mmmmmm science.
Lubricants have specific base oils, additives and properties depending on their application. Some are designed to keep water in suspension (emulsify) while others shed water (demulsify).
Emulsification – Some systems are designed to filter water that’s been trapped in hydraulic oils. For example, tractors that have a common sump for hydraulics, transmissions, and brakes use tractor hydraulic fluid which emulsifies water.
Demulsification – When water gets into the hydraulic system of construction equipment, it’s most often because of condensation associated with temperature changes. Generally, the reservoirs on the hydraulic tanks have a water release valve which allows for draining the water at the bottom of the tank. Hydraulic oils typically demulsify water which allows it to separate out.
