Conventional petroleum based, mineral oil can ignite and burn if sprayed, poured, or otherwise permitted to come into contact with hot surfaces, open flames, molten metal, or electric arcs. Accidental leaks pose a serious threat to property, jobs and the lives of persons working in its vicinity.
FRHF are based on media more difficult to ignite than mineral oil. They are less likely to continue burning out of or beyond the area of intense heat. They normally will not continue to burn once the source of ignition has been removed - i.e. - they self-extinguish.
They are not fire-proof and some types may ignite and burn if the ignition source is higher than 700oC. However, if burning occurs only in the areas of intense heat, it would have offered an advantage over mineral oil. Employees must be protected from direct exposure to the heat and flame whether it be momentary or sustained.
There are two main groups or four main types of FRHF. These are:
Water containing fluids
1. HF-A 95% high water based fluid
2. HF-B 35% water in oil emulsion
3. HF-C 35% water-glycol,
and
Anhydrous fluids
4. HF-D phosphate-esters, and others
The use of FRHF however should not give one a sense of false security. One must use good design practices and common sense when making decisions regarding hydraulic systems in high fire danger areas. Effort must be made to assure a leak-tight system. Special attention should be given to the types and positioning of hydraulic lines and hoses. When lines are located directly over or very close to a potential fire source, they should be guarded or shielded. FRHFs should be monitored in service on a regular basis to ensure that they are being maintained in good condition.
|
This guide contains a comprehensive coverage of
issues regarding the use of Fire Resistant Fluids. The information contained under different section
headings in this guide is applicable in other sections. For example, the
information on Fluid Management under the Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid
section is applicable to all other sections. Likewise, the fire prevention guidelines under the
Heat Transfer Section is applicable in all other sections. |
|
|
|
Fire
Resistant Hydraulic Fluid Criteria This selection criteria explains the issues involved
when using fire resistant hydraulic fluid |
|
|
|
Fire
Safe Fluid Selection Guide This selection criteria compares the merits and
de-merit of various fire resistant hydraulic fluids assisting the user to
choose an appropriate fire resistant hydraulic fluid for a particular
situation |
|
|
|
TROUBLE
SHOOTING GUIDE FOR HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS Diagnostic
Hints: Hydraulic systems do not normally fail overnight.
There are usually symptoms of an approaching problem. If the “Suggested
Remedies” do not correct the trouble and you need to refer to
Oiltech’s hydraulic specialists, always give as much background to the
trouble as possible. Get to know the operation of the equipment you’re
maintaining. Read manufacturers’ instructions and study circuit diagrams
carefully, particularly recommended start-up procedures. Use the right tools – some hydraulic components are
delicate and it can take just the right touch to make them tick. Don’t take shortcuts – it rarely works Play it safe. Most modern hydraulic equipment works
in the range of 1 Mpa to over 100 Mpa (150 – 15000 psi) and high
pressures can be dangerous. The safest way to work on any machine is to
shut it down first. Analyse the system and develop a logical sequence for
setting valves, mechanical stops, interlocks and electrical controls. Don’t experiment unless it’s your last resort.
Manufacturers spend experienced time designing, building and testing
equipment. Take it easy when making any improvements. |