What is the shelf life of hydraulic oil?
2 Answers
The national standard shelf life of hydraulic oil is 5 years. Hydraulic oil maintenance work (provided the equipment operates normally without abnormalities). Ensure hydraulic oil is not used in high-temperature conditions; the oil oxidizes and deteriorates quickly under high temperatures. Below is an introduction to hydraulic oil: Hydraulic station filters: The air filter on the hydraulic station should be capable of filtering both particles and moisture. Use precision filter elements to filter hydraulic oil, maintaining the oil's contamination level at NAS less than 8 for an extended period. The standard filter elements that come with the equipment usually have insufficient precision and cannot guarantee the cleanliness of the hydraulic oil. Quality requirements for hydraulic oil: Suitable viscosity and good viscosity-temperature properties. The viscosity of the oil should be minimally affected by temperature changes, meaning temperature variations should not disrupt the normal operation of the hydraulic system.
I've always been using my car, especially when dealing with brake fluid, and noticed that the shelf life of hydraulic fluid is quite crucial. For unopened new oil, if stored properly, such as in a cool and dry place like a garage, it can generally last two to five years; but once opened, it's different—it's recommended to use it up within a few weeks to avoid moisture infiltration. High humidity can cause the oil to absorb water, affecting braking performance. Last time, I stored a barrel of hydraulic fluid for over two years, labeled with a three-year shelf life, but testing revealed excessive viscosity, so I had to replace it. I recommend not stockpiling too much and regularly checking storage conditions. In the system, oil isn't replaced solely based on shelf life—it also depends on mileage or time. For example, most car manufacturers suggest changing it every two years for safety, not just relying on the packaging date.
