In addition to being used in construction and heavy machinery, hydraulics can even be found in some attractions at amusement parks. On the other hand, the powerful hydraulic fluid frequently comes with a cost to the environment. Throughout history, petroleum-based products have been the focus of attention. Now, the industry is beginning to recognize the possibilities of alternatives that are derived from plants.
History Lesson: We’ve Used Bio-Based Lubricants Before
before the discovery of lubricants, lubrication generated from plants and animals was prevalent in the machinery industry. A number of disadvantages were associated with these oils despite the fact that they were effective. Although they had a tendency to develop rancid, they did not have a very lengthy shelf life. The utilization of a lubricant that is generated from renewable resources, on the other hand, was a sound core concept, and it is currently getting renewed interest.
Oils derived from plants, such as canola oil, soybean oil, and rapeseed oil, are used in the production of sophisticated hydraulic fluids that are bio-based. Impurities are removed from these oils during the processing process, which also makes them more resistant to oxidation and degradation on the surface. In comparison to hydraulic fluids derived from petroleum, bio-based hydraulic fluids have a number of notable advantages. Ecologically speaking, they are renewable, biodegradable, and less hazardous. They also have a smaller impact on the surrounding environment.
Businesses are growing increasingly interested in bio-based hydraulic fluids as the price of petroleum continues to climb and as environmental rules become more stringent for the first time in a long time. They provide a lot of advantages, both economically and environmentally, in comparison to hydraulic fluids that are derived from petroleum, and they are a viable alternative to both.
Some Specific Examples Of Hydraulic Applications
Bio-based hydraulic fluids are a viable option for a variety of hydraulic applications, including:
- Forestry equipment: Bio-based hydraulic fluids are well-suited for use in forestry equipment because they are biodegradable and less toxic than petroleum-based hydraulic fluids. This makes them a safer option for use in areas where there is a risk of hydraulic fluid spills, such as forests.
- Marine applications: Bio-based hydraulic fluids are also a good choice for use in marine applications. They are resistant to corrosion and saltwater, making them a good option for use in boats and other marine vehicles.
- Systems where a leak is likely: Bio-based hydraulic fluids are a good option for use in systems where a leak is likely. This is because they are less likely to cause environmental damage than petroleum-based hydraulic fluids.
As the market for bio-based hydraulic fluids grows, it is likely that we will see these fluids used in a wider variety of applications.
Why The Sudden Interest?
Two primary factors are contributing to the resurgence of interest in hydraulic fluids derived from plants: pressure and practicality. In the first place, there has been a continuous rise in the number of hydraulic fluid spills, and older hydraulic systems frequently experience leaks. Second, the regulations that govern places that are particularly sensitive to the environment are becoming stronger.
The Bio-Based Advantage (And The Challenges)
The oils derived from plants that are utilized today are not the same as those that were used in the past. They are manufactured using superior feedstocks and cutting-edge additives, and their performance is getting closer and closer to that of conventional hydraulic fluids.
Despite the fact that bio-based hydraulic fluids have several distinct benefits, including biodegradability, decreased toxicity, and renewability, they are not without their share of difficulties. Certain oils derived from plants degrade more quickly when they are exposed to air and heat, and they can become more viscous when the temperature drops. In addition, the cost of these alternatives is typically higher than that of conventional petroleum-based alternatives.
Where The B2B Opportunity Lies
Hydraulic fluid manufacturers have the opportunity to solve these issues by producing additives that improve oxidation resistance, viscosity, and cold-weather performance. These additives can be discovered in the market. It is also possible for them to work to match the appropriate fluid to the application. Developing disposal services for used bio-based fluids is another field that presents opportunities for those who are interested.
The use of hydraulic fluids derived from biomaterials is not merely a marketing trick. There are a number of actual benefits associated with the utilization of these fluids, including the reduction of liability in the case of a spill, the future-proofing of a company against the implementation of new rules, and the increased morale of employees.
Although bio-based hydraulic fluid suppliers will not be able to replace petroleum in the near future completely, they are a realistic option for specific uses, such as marine applications and forestry equipment. From this point forward, businesses that begin to develop their knowledge in this field will be in a strong position to capitalize on the expanding market as it continues to develop.
The ‘green’ Factor Isn’t Just Marketing
Environmentally sensitive customers do constitute a market. However, you should also consider:
- Lowered risk of liability: Any significant spill of conventional hydraulic fluid is a nightmare for the cleanup process.
- The future-proofing of: Regulations are going to continue to evolve. Having a competitive advantage is achieved by being ahead of the curve.
- Employee buy-in: When people are able to work with products that are safer for both them and the environment, they feel a sense of satisfaction.
Let’s Get Real: It’s Evolution, Not Revolution
It is not possible to make a seamless transition from petroleum-based hydraulics to bio-based hydraulics. However, it is essential to take into consideration particular industries and niches, such as forestry equipment, marine applications, and systems in which the possibility of a leak is greater than the slight premium of environmentally friendly fluid. If companies start developing their expertise in this area RIGHT NOW, they will be in a position to dominate the industry as it continues to grow. This is because they will have started developing their knowledge in this subject.
