Hydraulic Oil

Hydraulic Oil for Industrial and Mobile Equipment

Hydraulic oil performs multiple critical functions in a hydraulic system beyond simply transmitting power — it lubricates pump components, cylinders, valves, and motors; carries heat away from high-work-rate components; prevents corrosion on internal metal surfaces; and maintains a stable film between moving parts to minimise wear. Selecting the right hydraulic oil viscosity grade and formulation for the operating conditions is fundamental to maximising system efficiency, component life, and reliability. AIMS stocks a comprehensive range of hydraulic oils from leading lubricant brands in standard anti-wear, fire-resistant, and biodegradable grades.

Viscosity Grades

ISO VG 46 is the most common hydraulic oil viscosity grade used in industrial hydraulic systems operating in typical ambient temperature conditions. ISO VG 32 is specified for systems operating in cold conditions or at high speeds where lower viscosity improves efficiency and cold-start performance. ISO VG 68 is used in high-temperature environments, heavily loaded systems, or applications where higher viscosity is required to maintain adequate film thickness at operating temperature. Always refer to the equipment manufacturer's specification for the required viscosity grade — using an incorrect grade affects system efficiency and can lead to excessive component wear or inadequate lubrication.

Anti-Wear Hydraulic Oils

Premium anti-wear hydraulic oils (designated AW or HM to ISO 11158) contain zinc-based (ZDDP) or zinc-free anti-wear additive packages that protect pump components from wear under high-load and high-pressure conditions. AW hydraulic oils are the standard specification for most industrial hydraulic systems with vane, piston, and gear pumps. Zinc-free anti-wear hydraulic oils are available for systems using servo valves and other sensitive components where zinc-based additives may cause deposits or valve sticking. High-performance and long-life hydraulic oils with extended oxidation stability are specified for systems with longer oil change intervals.

Fire-Resistant and Biodegradable Grades

Fire-resistant hydraulic fluids are required in applications involving hot surfaces, open flames, or molten metal — such as steel mills, die casting machines, and underground mining equipment. Water-glycol and phosphate ester fire-resistant fluids have different handling and compatibility requirements from mineral oil; always verify seal, hose, and paint compatibility before converting a system from mineral oil to fire-resistant fluid. Biodegradable hydraulic oils based on synthetic esters or vegetable oils are specified for forestry, marine, and other environmentally sensitive applications where fluid spills could cause environmental contamination.

For product selection, technical data sheets, or bulk supply pricing, contact our team.

AIMS supplies hydraulic oil in drum and IBC quantities for industrial and commercial customers. Technical data sheets and safety data sheets are available for all products. For volume pricing or specific grade enquiries, contact our team.