Hydraulic Oil Coolers
A hydraulic oil cooler is a device that cools hydraulic oil in a hydraulic system. Commercial air cleaner This cooling is necessary because a continuous fluid flow through the system increases the fluid’s heat. If the fluid temperature reaches too high, it can cause excessive wear on hydraulic components. It is also possible for the fluid to overheat and cause cavitation. When this happens, the oil can break down and form particulates that can damage internal components.
These coolers are generally air or water-cooled. The type of cooler best suited for a hydraulic system depends on the heat load. Air-cooled units are the most common. They employ a powerful fan that forces air across a pipe coil. Water-cooled coolers are more compact and quiet.
Water-cooled units may offer various options for cooling tube sizes and baffle spacing. Some have temperature-control switches. Others come with a pressure and temperature bypass valve. You can use these products for a wide variety of applications. For example, auxiliary coolers are great for mulchers, wood splitters, and hydraulically driven attachments.
Hydraulic oil coolers are designed to minimize the deterioration of hydraulic oil. They also ensure that the temperature never reaches a point that can damage the seals or other components. Since the cooler’s temperature is always lower than the oil’s, the fluid’s viscosity is maintained at the desired level.
Choosing the right size is essential. The cooler’s capacity must be adequate to maintain the correct oil temperature. Undersized units can lead to higher temperatures. Also, a too-large cooler will increase the operation cost.
Generally, a cooler’s input power is measured in kilowatts or BTU/h. These figures are easier to understand than horsepower. To determine how much heat a unit will reject, divide the input power by the corresponding heat load. For example, if the input power is 100 kW, the amount of heat a unit will have to reject is approximately 20 kilowatts.
Depending on the type of system, you may need to install heaters. For instance, a heater may be required if your system does not reach a minimum temperature before start-up. During wintertime, a heater is necessary to prevent freezing.
Hydraulic coolers come in several different designs. Typical designs include radiators and shell and tube heat exchangers. Shell and tube types contain oil-carrying pipes enclosed in a sealed shell. Various materials are used for the tubes. Cupronickel is the standard, but titanium and stainless steel are available as options.
Choosing a suitable cooler is a complicated process. In addition to the above considerations, you should consider the environmental conditions surrounding the equipment. Typically, these factors affect the overall performance of the system. Ensure that you choose a cooler that incorporates the latest technical features. An experienced installer will help you maximize your machine’s operations.
Whether you need a single or multi-circuit cooler, it is essential to ensure that the cooling is in a separate circuit from the reservoir. The cooling unit must handle viscosity, oil pressure, and heat transfer fluids.