Significance and Use
4.1 Users of hydraulic equipment which includes piston pumps would like assurance that the fluids they use will allow their systems to operate safely with reasonable equipment life. This assurance is commonly provided by the fluid supplier in the form of results of standardized tests on the fluid, or demonstrated success in field use in similar systems, or both. This guide will help fluid developers and users develop testing protocols which demonstrate the suitability of a fluid for its intended use, including any required limitations on hydraulic system operating conditions.
Scope
1.1 This guide covers the establishment of test protocols and methodologies for determining the suitability of fluids for use in fluid power systems that incorporate axial or radial piston pumps. The suitability of all fluid types to meet specific levels of performance in piston pumps is addressed. These fluids include, but are not limited to formulations based on mineral, synthetic or vegetable oil base stocks. The finished fluids may be in the form of straight oils, soluble oils or invert emulsions.
1.2 The test protocols and methodologies described in this guide have been selected for their ability to distinguish between highly acceptable, acceptable and unacceptable fluid performance in piston pumps. They take into account the broad range of operating conditions piston pumps are subjected to, as well as the common variations in design and materials of construction among pump manufacturers.
1.3 This guide is intended to complement proprietary test protocols and methodologies employed by some piston pump manufacturers. The test protocols and methodologies within this guide may help pump manufacturers, fluid formulators and end users accurately screen potential fluids for specific performance characteristics. The results of this screening may be sufficient in certain instances for pump manufacturers to forego requirements for additional fluid performance tests.
