Overheating is a common, constant issue for hydraulic equipment, especially when working in scorching summer conditions. Over time, this can have negative consequences for critical machinery:
Overheating accelerates oil degradation, causing varnish and sludge to coalesce in the system and cause blockages and reduce operating efficiency.
Shortened oil lifespan forces more frequent oil change-outs, increasing both downtime and oil-related expenses for new purchases and recycling.
Oil degradation products can damage system components and force the equipmentโs engine to overcompensate.
Keep Cool and Collected with the FTC
Schroederโs new Filter Tank Cooling Unit (FTC) is a compact solution for mobile fleet vehicles that combines a hydraulic tank assembly and cooling unit in one complete package.
Condensed, efficient footprint ideal for the space limitations of mobile vehicles; most optimized tank/cooler combination currently available
Integrated cooling unit maintains safe operating temperature, extending fluid life and preventing overheating in the hydraulic system
Reduces weight, space utilization, and oil usage; provides associated cost savings
Air Fusion Technology filtration and a robust, rotomolded 7-gallon TNK design to reduce weight and increase the efficiency of the reservoirโs performance and deaeration capabilities
Schroeder Success: FTC Unit Increases Machine Space on Mobile Fleet Vehicles
An OEM producing mobile fleet units sought a lighter, more space-efficient alternative for their 25 gallon hydraulic unit and separate cooling unit, which took up considerable room on the mobile unit.
Schroeder Industries engineered the FTC unit to utilize space as efficiently as possible while delivering optimal performance from the hydraulic reservoir and cooling unit, allowing OEMs to further streamline and improve their equipment designs.
Here’s how this customer benefited!
Tank + Cooling Assembly Footprint Substantially Downsized
18 Gallon Reduction in Reservoir Size; Reduced Oil Usage Per Unit
Increased Machine Space for Further Design Improvements
Can the FTC Unit help you beat the heat? Ask the experts!
The product experts at Schroeder Industries can help you find the optimal solution for your application. Let us know how we can help!
Equipment failures within warranty and product recalls are a major headache for both end users and manufacturers, ranging from costly and inconvenient to downright dangerous. One common cause of issues and even catastrophic failures is contamination present in the equipment the moment it exits the assembly line.
The risks of contamination-related, premature equipment failures to both end users and original equipment manufacturers are clear. So, how can these issues be prevented?
What is Roll Off Cleanliness?
Roll off cleanliness is commonly referred to as the overall contamination level of the fuel system, hydraulic system, and hydraulic fluid in the equipment at the time of release from an assembly line or re-build line, after testing and before shipping to customers and/or end users.
Built-in contamination, or contamination that enters a vehicle or piece of equipment during assembly, is a common cause of premature failure. A high standard of roll-off cleanliness ensures that new equipment is free of contamination which can cause failures within warranty, triggering returns, recalls, and other negative outcomes that inconvenience consumers and impact a brandโs reputation.
Where Does Built-In Contamination Come From?
For hydraulic, lubrication, and fuel systems with sensitive components, even contaminants measured in microns can cause damage. For optimal roll-off cleanliness, there are several avenues of contamination that must be monitored and addressed, depending on the application:
Machining Debris
As the automotive manufacturers mentioned above are all too aware, machining debris, or particulates left over from the process of manufacturing and assembling components, can be catastrophic.
Tiny fragments of metal and other particulates produced in the manufacturing process can cause both localized damage to engines or critical system components and spread downstream of the original contamination source, causing wear and tear throughout the system.
Environmental Component Contamination
The overall cleanliness of the manufacturing setting at every stage of production is also vital for ensuring overall roll-off cleanliness. Dust, debris, and moisture present in the environment can settle into components as they are being manufactured, packaged, transferred, or assembled.
Most manufacturers source at least some components from third party vendors, so the condition of other facilities should also be examined, and incoming components should be tested to ensure they comply with a manufacturerโs standard of cleanliness.
Contaminated Hydraulic and Lubricating Fluid
Contamination from newly added hydraulic or lubricating fluids is another common source of contamination at the start of a machineโs life. Oil producers generally adhere to strict ISO standards, but throughout the process of production, transfer, and filling, contaminants may ingress into the hydraulic fluid.
New oil should be tested before being added to any system. It is also recommended to utilize an offline filtration system or kidney loop filter to cycle the oil through the system and ensure its cleanliness.
Contaminated Fuel
For plants which produce diesel-powered mobile equipment, fuel management for on-site testing and end-of-line filling equipment is a critical part of their operations. Fuel is a common vector for water, bacteria, and particulate contamination to enter a fuel system, as there are many potential points of exposure throughout the fuel production and transfer processes.
Inbound fuel, on-site storage tanks, and distribution systems should be carefully monitored and filtered. Filtration units specialized for maintaining diesel quality are a must to ensure clean fuel, protecting new equipment from an influx of contamination into the fuel system.
Schroeder Industries’ Roll Off Cleanliness Arsenal
Schroeder Industries understands the importance of setting end users up for success through roll-off cleanliness. We offer a variety of filtration solutions and diagnostic tools that ensure your equipment is putting its best foot forward from a cleanliness standpoint when it leaves the assembly line.
Testing cabinets like Schroeder’s CTU 1000, CTU-SC, and CTU-EB are used to analyze individual machine components and provide detailed analysis of the type, size, and quantity of contaminants. Analyzing components throughout the production, storage, and system assembly process ensures that individual contaminants are clean when entering the equipment.
If a testing cabinet is outside your budget, Schroeder Industries offers turnkey testing services and expert analysis!
Contaminated hydraulic fluid or oil is a common cause of premature machine failure. Offline filtrations systems such as Schroeder’s array of filter carts (including the MFS, FS, and AMFS) allow for flexibility and mobility when testing the hydraulic fluid and lubricating oil across a variety of machines.
Ranging from streamlined-but-reliable basic cart systems to advanced systems with onboard particle counting and recording capabilities, these filter carts ensure the cleanliness of fluid within the equipment and can be customized for your specific needs.
Diagnostic tools like the TFC are used for establishing ISO counts for fluids in real-time. Due to the technology included in the TFC, it is able to distinguish air bubbles from particulate contamination, removing the counted air from the particle count, thus providing a more accurate ISO code. With shape and size recognition software, determining the type of the contamination present in the hydraulic fluid is now even easier.
Schroeder’s Fuel Filtration division specializes in coalescing and particulate filtration for diesel fuel.
Products like the BDF, GHCF, and more provide superior filtration at every stage of the fuel supply chain, including during transfer, point of fueling, and kidney loop circulating filtration for bulk storage tanks.
Fuel filtration carts like the BDFC combine our world-class fuel filters with integrated pumps, hoses, and a mobile cart chassis.
These turn-key, complete systems offer increased flexibility and enable easy transitions from application to application around a manufacturing plant or storage facility.
As a provider of critical filtration components and accessories, Schroeder Industries is all-too aware of the importance of providing clean parts to our manufacturing partners.
Our manufacturing facilities in Leetsdale, PA and Cumberland, MD maintain high standards of cleanliness, creating a comfortable working environment and minimizing the risk of particulate contamination.
Our products are subject to stringent standards which include proprietary, rigorous testing and cleaning methods that ensure our filters, rotomolded reservoirs, and other components arrive to our partners in clean condition.
Let the experts at Schroeder Industries help you reach your roll off cleanliness goals!
Years of careful research and thoughtful development have yielded the new HY-HV-S120, the latest in Schroeder’s diagnostic arsenal. This revolutionary sensor is much more than just a digital particle counter, offering detailed insights into the possible source of contaminants.
As hydraulic oil oxidizes and degrades, a sticky substance known as varnish is deposited throughout the hydraulic system. Changing oil chemistry in modern hydraulic systems and the high pressure & temperatures achieved during equipment operation are leading to increased varnish deposits.
How Does Varnish Affect Your Hydraulic System?
Varnish accumulation in a hydraulic system causes a variety of potentially serious issues:
Varnish deposits on hydraulic valves and other components can cause the components to stick, or even become fully jammed.
The operating temperature of the machine may increase as the machine tries to compensate for its reduced efficiency, which can accelerate oil degradation and cause overheating.
Machines may malfunction at critical moments as components lose efficiency or fail entirely, leading to lost productivity or safety hazards.
Hydraulic filters and filter elements may become prematurely blocked due to varnish buildup.
Lost productivity and frequent repairs or part replacements due to varnish buildup can become very costly.
VEU Compact: Bust Varnish Before It Can Tarnish Your Equipment!
The new VEU Compact has been specially engineered to tackle varnish and protect hydraulic systems from its harmful effects. As the risk of varnish contamination and related problems proliferate, having a specialized filtration solution can save you and your system considerable trouble.
A cost-effective, accessible varnish mitigation solution
Compact design and small footprint makes installation simpler on machines with smaller reservoirs or in areas with limited space
Dual stage filtration combines ultra-efficient synthetic media and a high density cellulose layer for maximized particulate capture while maintaining filter efficiency
Does not require a cooler for optimal varnish extraction
Increases oil service life by removing contaminants
Backed by the technology, engineering experience, and quality assurance of Schroeder Industries
Schroeder Industries is no stranger to the effects of varnish, and the VEU Compact isn’t the only solution we have to offer. Learn more about our other specialized varnish removal systems!
VEU – Varnish Elimination Unit
The service-friendly Varnish Elimination Unit (VEU) is used to prepare mineral oils and is particularly effective at removing varnish. By reducing the oil temperature with an onboard cooler, the VEU allows for exceptional varnish precursor extraction.
Available as both a complete service unit and modular system for retrofits, the VMU traps varnish particulates on the surface of an active filter element via adsorption
One of the most debilitating problems a vessel can face at sea is an unexpected loss of control. In rough seas, working engines can mean weathering the storm or succumbing to it. Shipping delays due to engine failures and repairs can have an impact on supply chains, and result in major disruptions and financial loss. More importantly, loss of control can have devastating consequences on crew and bystander safety.
When considering ways to prevent an unexpected loss of power for marine applications, controlling fuel contamination is an effective way to eliminate one of the greatest factors affecting diesel engine reliability today.
What Causes Fuel Contamination in Marine Applications?
Fuel systems in marine applications are vulnerable to water contamination due to the operating environment and liabilities in the fuel supply chain.
By virtue of operating at sea, on the coast, or in rivers, ships are exposed to high levels of humidity and water, which is the most common type of contamination that sea-going fuel systems face.
Diesel fuel is transported through a long network of refineries, bulk fuel suppliers, and dispensing stations before reaching its destination. At every stage, water, humidity, bacteria, pollen, and other contaminants can enter through open breathers, improperly sealed vessels, and other points of ingress.
Fluctuations in temperature can result in high levels of free water in a fuel system, which is more damaging than water that has dissolved into the fuel.
How Can Fuel Contamination Cause Engine Failure?
Contamination can affect engine operations in a variety of ways:
Buildup of bacterial sludge in the fuel due to water and bacterial contamination, also called diesel bug, can plug the engine filtration system and starve it of fuel
Small amounts of particulates and water can wear out an engine’s components over time, reducing its overall efficiency and eventually causing the engine to fail.
What Other Impacts Can Contamination and Contamination-Related Damage Have?
Besides total engine failure and its potential consequences, contamination has a range of direct and indirect impacts on equipment and operations:
Costly maintenance and repair of engines and equipment
Increased fuel-related expenses between acquiring clean fuel, disposing of contaminated fuel, and remediating/polishing contaminated fuel
Reduced fuel economy due to inefficiencies in the engine/high pressure common rail injection systems caused by contamination
Reduced engine and equipment longevity
Overall reductions in vessel or fleet profitability due to compounding expenses and downtime for repairs
How Can I Control Diesel Contamination?
Having a system in place to proactively monitor and prevent contamination where possible, plus a solution to remediate whatever contamination occurs, is key for controlling fuel contamination and protecting your engine.
Obtain fuel from a reputable source. Fuel is often contaminated before it enters a shipโs fuel system, but reputable suppliers who are familiar with contamination and take fuel cleanliness into consideration will provide higher quality fuel and prevent large, immediate influxes of contamination.
Ensure storage/fuel tank cleanliness. Before filling a fuel tank or bulk storage tank, be sure the tank is clean and dry.
Take precautions when transferring fuel/filling your system. Water and other contaminants are most likely to ingress during fuel transfer, so ensure that your transfer system is properly sealed.
Monitor the fuel quality levels of your storage tanks to determine the condition of the fuel being delivered to your engine and remediate or replace contaminated fuel before it can affect your equipment. Test kits such as Schroeder’s Diesel Fuel Quality Analysis Kits can provide important insights into the condition of your fuel, especially if you’re experiencing issues consistent with fuel contamination.
Closely monitor your fuel water separators and engine filters and empty them as often as needed. But remember: don’t rely solely on these separators and filters to completely resolve your contamination issues!
Acquire a fuel polishing system. A fuel polishing system/kidney loop attached to your system or to your storage tanks can help address contamination in real time.
Some degree of water contamination is inevitable, especially in a marine setting. However, proactive maintenance and preventative measures will significantly reduce your chances of catastrophic contamination-related equipment failure!
Schroeder Solutions for Diesel Contamination Control
Schroeder Industries understands all too well the negative impacts of fuel contamination. Our fuel filtration experts have developed a range of filtration products and services to maintain diesel fuel quality, with proven success in the maritime industry and beyond.
Here are just a few of our featured solutions:
BDFP – Bulk Diesel Filtration Panel
BDFP: Exceptional Quality, Turn-Key Stationary Fuel Filtration System
This simple-but-mighty filtration panel combines the power of our particulate GHPF filter and the exceptional water removal capabilities of our coalescing GHCF filter to defend against particulate and water contamination.
With an integrated pump, the BDFP is ready to use without requiring a new pump purchase for the filter panel.
The streamlined BDFP design is easy to integrate into new and existing fuel storage systems, and the minimal element change clearance makes maintenance easy.
Flow Rating (Electric Motor Option):
14 gpm or 25 gpm (53 or 95 L/min)
Flow Rating (Air-Operated Option):
16 or 25 gpm (53 or 95 L/min)
Ambient Temperature Range:
32ยฐF to 104ยฐF (0ยฐC to 40ยฐC) Standard; -20ยฐF to 140ยฐF (-29ยฐC to 40ยฐC) Heater Option
BDFP Prevents Water Contamination-Related Engine Failures in Workboat Fleet
When a fleet operator in the Mississippi River region launched a new pushboat with a brand new engine, the pushboat experienced sudden engine failure just a single mile into its maiden voyage.
Analysis revealed water contamination in the fuel source as the primary cause of this failure. When the customer approached Schroeder Industries for help, our experts recommended a kidney loop setup featuring the BDFP to ensure fuel quality, reduce engine maintenance, and protect against further costly, dangerous failures. Its performance was so outstanding that the customer implemented the BDFP across their three fleets.
Here’s how the BDFP helped this customer save money and protect their assets!
Reduced Downtime & Maintenance
Eliminated Contamination-Related Engine Failures
Prevented Major Engine Repairs (Saving Up To 100K+)
Schroeder’s particulate GHPF filter and coalescing GHCF filter combine for exceptional defense against particulate and water contamination. With the option of adding a second GHCF in parallel on the BDF, flow rate and coalescing capabilities can be doubled!
This compact filter excels in marine applications, fleet and mobile vehicle applications, railroad applications, and much more!
Flow Rating:
BDF1: up to 25gpm (95 L/min) BDF2: up to 50gpm (189 L/min)
Max Operating Pressure:
150 psi (10 bar)
Temperature Range:
w/ water sump heater: -20ยฐF to 225ยฐF (-29ยฐC to 107ยฐC); w/out heater: 32ยฐF to 225ยฐF (0ยฐC to 107ยฐC)
Due to poor fuel quality, a Class 1 Rail Carrier was experiencing frequent in-field failures of their MOW (Maintenance-of-Way) equipment, including their Fuel & Lube Trucks.
This lack of fuel quality control was costing the customer thousands of dollars in parts and labor, downtime, and lost revenue overall. Schroeder’s experts retrofitted the customer’s MOW fleet with BDF2 filters (BDF with dual GHCF filters), providing immediate improvements.
Here’s how the BDF2 helped this customer save money and protect their assets!
57% Increase in Particulate Filtration Efficiency
19% Reduction in Absolute Water Content (52ppm Below World Wide Fuel Charter Maximum Water Content)
BestFitยฎ Elements: Superior Coalescing & Particulate Filtration
With options for both coalescing and particulate filtration and all the advantages of Schroeder’s powerful filter element technology, the BestFitยฎ series provides improved diesel filtration performance.
SBFC element uses patented, three stage coalescing filtration technology
Synthetic filtration media eliminates degradation due to high water content fuel
Use of stainless steel support structure and polymer components prevent corrosion from high water content exposure
Direct fitment into existing installations allow for immediate performance improvements with no modifications
Differential Pressure Rating:
75 psid
Max. Operating Temperature Range:
225ยฐF (107ยฐC)
Filtration Rating:
225ยฐF (-29ยฐC to 107ยฐC); w/out heater: 32ยฐF to 225ยฐF (0ยฐC to 107ยฐC)
BestFitยฎ Elements Stabilize Inventory Crisis & Improve ROI
An oil & gas drilling contractor struggled to source a critical diesel fuel filter element required on all their job sites, resulting in company-wide operational impacts.
Not only was Schroeder Industries able to provide a seamless transition and stable supply of vital elements using our BestFitยฎ Element series: The BestFitยฎ Elements ended up outperforming the drilling company’s previous elements!
Here’s how BestFitยฎ Elements improved ROI and helped this customer’s business return to smooth sailing!
Element Inventory & Supply Stabilized
Increased Service Life of Filter Elements vs. Previous Elements
Competitive Price Point & Improved Element Performance Provided Immediate ROI Increases
Damp, Dirty Diesel Deals Damage: Fix It with Fuel Filtration Solutions from Schroeder Industries!
Our experts can help you monitor and decontaminate your marine vessel fuel supply and prevent the costly, potentially dangerous effects of water contamination and more. Contact us for a consultation, quote, or more information!
Contact-Blog-Water Contaminated Diesel In Marine Applications: Fix It With Filtration!
Compressed Natural Gas, or CNG, is one of the best known and most widely used alternative fuel options currently available. As CNG and CNG-powered technology escalates, filtration is necessary to ensure optimal fuel quality and operational efficiency.
In this post, we will explore:
The projected growth of CNG
Examples of CNG applications
The unique considerations of CNG filtration
The products that Schroeder Industries has engineered for excellence in the realm of CNG filtration
CNG Surge: Compressed Natural Gas Market Projected to Grow
According to a June 2023 report from The Business Research Company, Compressed Natural Gas Global Market Report 2023, the global CNG market was valued at 147.16 billion USD in 2022. By 2027, the market is expected to grow 83.5%, for a total estimated value of 269 billion USD.
CNG is one of the major players in alternative fuels for several reasons, including:
1. Improved sustainability compared to traditional fuels.
It also delivers comparable torque and power to traditional diesel engines, making it viable for intensive work such as construction and mining.
3. Relative ease of integration into current systems.
CNG can largely utilize existing technology such as vehicle designs and transportation infrastructure, making transitions and retrofits more straightforward compared to other alternative fuel sources, such as electric power.
Part of this growth in the compressed natural gas market is being driven by CNG fueling and other related applications, including power generation and fueling CNG-powered vehicles for commercial fleets. Delivery vehicles, refuse collection trucks, and other commercial vehicles are seeing increased adoption of CNG. Compressed gas dispensing stations and virtual pipelines are expanding to satisfy the growing need for CNG fuel.
In order to ensure optimal performance of both CNG dispensing units and the vehicles that utilize it, CNG must be filtered to remove damaging contamination such as water vapor, residual oils, and solid particulates.
CNG Filtration 101
Despite being a compressed gas, CNG is also susceptible to contamination and requires filtration just like diesel and conventional liquid fuel to maintain its quality.
Water Vapor: Water vapor is found in all compressed gases and air. When under pressure, the water vapor becomes more concentrated.
Oil: Oil can leach into the compressed gas via lubrication in the compressor system. Hydrocarbon contamination is also present even in gas drawn through oil-free compressors.
Solid Particulates: Compressed gas systems can also ingest particles of rust, dirt, and other solid contaminants, just like a liquid fuel application.
Just like conventional fuel contamination, contaminated CNG can negatively impact equipment and its performance:
Reduced Desiccant/Dehydrator Absorption: Compressed gas systems include dehydrating components, but high contamination levels can more quickly overwhelm these dehydrators.
System Component Wear: Sensitive system components, fuel injectors, and seals can be abraded and damaged overtime by contaminants, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
Reduced Efficiency Overall: Worn components reduce operational efficiency and increase maintenance-related downtime for CNG-powered equipment.
And More!
However, filtering compressed gas requires extra consideration compared to conventional liquid fuel. Adequate gas filtration must, among other things:
Account For Different Gas Types. Filter housings size selection must consider not only the system flow but also the type of gas as well as the operating pressure and temperature of the system.
Account For Smaller Gas Molecules. Gas molecules are much smaller than liquid fuel molecules, so material selection and porosity are a major consideration in filter construction. A gas filter must be exceptionally well-sealed and utilize low porosity materials. Ductile iron and aluminum are common material choices for CNG filters.
Tackle Ultra-Fine Particulates. Contamination in compressed air is often under 1 micron in size, which is substantially smaller than typical contamination in liquid fuels. Gas filters must be capable of trapping tiny particulates without compromising the differential pressure in the compressor system.
CNG Filtration Solutions from Schroeder Industries: Engineered for Excellence
Schroeder Industries offers comprehensive solutions for CNG filtration and filling stations, from generation to dispensing.
Generation
Transportation
Storage
Dispensing
Learn more about our CGF Series for CNG filtration, as well as our premium replacement elements!
Compressed Gas Filters
Schroeder’s premier filtration series for compressed air and compressed gases like CNG
CGF filter series provides cost-effective, robust filtration solutions for a broad range of applications.
Unlike other compressed gas filters, the CGF series utilizes pleated microglass media construction for more reliable performance and greater capacity.
CGF50
CGF8
CGF1.5
up to 5,000 psi
up to 800 psi
up to 150 psi
Compressed Gas Filter Panel
The CGFP50 provides twice the filtration power for your bulk filtration needs!
High Pressure Compressed Gas Polishing Panel for dispensing & transfer filtration
Uses two stages of the Schroeder CGF50 Compressed Gas Filters to remove particles and aerosols of oil and water.
Stainless Steel valves, connections, and tubing with flareless crimp connections are used for longevity and durability.
Replacement Elements
Premium replacement filter elements for the CGF series and more!
Replacement element kits designed for competitor housings in common sizes and media grade equivalents.
Currently available in 4C, 10C, and WS media grade equivalents, using pleated microglass media for extended service life with exceptional performance.
The element kits include the replacement bowl seals, designed to fit the competitor housings in the full range of sizes.
CGF Series: Beyond CNG
The versatile CGF Series also offers exceptional performance in other compressed gas applications besides just CNG!
Air Dryer Pre-Filtration
Paint Sprayer Booths
Air Cylinder / Air Valve Protection
And More!
The filtration experts at Schroeder Industries can help find the perfect filtration fit for your CNG or compressed gas application! Let us know how we can help:
Over the last decade, users of hydraulic systems noticed a sharp increase in unusual failures and contamination within their equipment, including:
Burned and discolored filter elements
Rapid oil degradation
Prematurely worn, damaged components
Electrical arcing outside of the system
The culprit? Electrostatic discharge, also known as ESD, was becoming more frequent within hydraulic equipment. Static buildup is already a known issue, but why was it suddenly happening more often, and to greater extremes?
Behind the ‘Electrifying’ Increase in ESD
Fundamentally, static discharge in a hydraulic system is caused by frictionโjust like how shuffling across carpet in thick socks allows you to lightly zap someone else with static electricity. Oil may be a lubricant, but there is still some friction between hydraulic fluid and the filter media it passes through, and thus, static buildup can occur.
In a system with highly conductive hydraulic fluid or oil, this static buildup is more easily absorbed and evenly distributed. This prevents the worst effects of electrostatic discharge. However, environmental standards driving changes in oil composition meant that low conductivity oil was becoming more widespread.
Group I โLightly Refinedโ Oils were once the most common class of hydraulic fluid.
These oils contained aromatics and heavy metals. Due to the presence of heavy metals, Group I oils have high electrical conductivity.
However, the heavy metals within Group 1 oils are mostly toxic. Due to this toxicity and the potential threat to the environment, Group 1 oils do not comply with newer, international environmental standards.
Group II & III โHydrocrackedโ or โSyntheticโ oils are replacing Group I oils as a more eco-friendly alternative.
Group II and III oils contain no toxins or carcinogens, as the toxic heavy metals have been removed.
Due to the lack of heavy metals, these oils have much lower electrical conductivity than Group 1 oils.
Between 2012 and 2020, the global market share of Group 1 oils fell by half, from 51% to roughly 26% of hydraulic oils in use. This trend is expected to continue. While moving away from Group I oils is much better for the environment, the proliferation of low conductivity oils led to more electrostatic discharge in hydraulic systems.
Effects of Electrostatic Discharge on Hydraulic Systems
Electrostatic discharge and static cause a variety of serious issues in hydraulic systems, including:
Damaged elements. Scorched, degraded filter elements are a hallmark of static buildup in a hydraulic system.
Increased contamination. When damaged, filter elements become unable to filter out contamination as intended, and the filter element itself may become a source of contamination as it degrades.
Reduced oil and component life. The increase in contamination and compromised filtration drastically reduces oil life and increases component wear.
Formation of sludge and varnish. As oil rapidly degrades, varnish is deposited in the system, affecting system function.
Fire risk. High amounts of ESD can potentially cause deflagration, or combustion of gas within the hydraulic reservoir.
Arcing and discharge outside of the system. In extreme cases, the electrostatic discharge can become so intense that it becomes an electrocution hazard to workers, as well as damaging to surrounding equipment.
Anti-Static Solutions from Schroeder Industries
Anti-Stat Premium and Anti-Stat Media from Schroeder industries are engineered to combat static buildup while providing robust filtration. Because levels of ESD can vary based on factors like fluid type and temperature, two levels of protection are available.
Both offer virtually the same efficiency as Schroederโs standard, exceptionally powerful microglass media. For superior protection from both typical particulate contamination and the effects of electrostatic discharge, look no further!
NEW: Anti-Stat Premium
Anti-Stat Premium: Supercharged Static-Busting Capabilities For Extreme ESD
Specially formulated media dissipates electric charges before they can begin damaging your system
Eliminates all static buildup at the source
Effective for even the most critical cases of ESD, tackling conductivity values lower than 100 pS/m
See how these customers benefited from the static-suppressing characteristics of Anti-Stat Media!
When a paper mill was experiencing a shortened filter element life of just 30 days, Schroeder Industries stepped in to extend the filter life, reduce oil waste, and reduce unscheduled downtime.
A Schroeder expert immediately identified the signs of static discharge in the hydraulic system. As the elements were burned and degraded by the electrostatic buildup, they failed prematurely, forcing the customer to swap out elements much sooner than usual.
Switching to Anti-Stat Media took the shock out of their system, extending their filter life and leading to substantial savings!
An automotive plant contacted Schroeder Industries when, after switching to a new hydraulic oil, their oil lifespan dropped by as much as 80%.
The customer’s new oil blend was zinc and ash-free, meaning its conductivity was lower than their previous hydraulic oil. As we’ve discussed, the lower a hydraulic fluid’s conductivity, the more likely static buildup is to occur!
Burn marks and varnish on the customer’s used elements confirmed that electrostatic discharge was building up in the customer’s system. By switching to Anti-Stat Media, the customer was able to get the most out of their oil and more!
Introducing the latest in Schroeder Industriesโ line of powerful in-tank filters!
Using the same cutting edge technology as the Schroeder AFT, the new AFTF provides all the best qualities of Air Fusion Technology with stabilized, fixed-head porting.
Hereโs just some of what makes the AFTF one of the most powerful deaerating in-tank hydraulic filters available:
Exceptional deaeration capabilities. Air Fusion Technology reduces fluid velocity and encourages bubble coalescence for substantially more effecting deaeration than other in-tank filters currently available.
Fixed head allows for a breather attachment. The stabilized porting allows the addition of an external breather, further increasing the deaeration potential.
Provides filtration even in bypass. The specialized bypass valve in the head of the filter allows the filter to function even while in bypass for greater filtration efficiency.
Potential for reservoir downsizing. The deaeration of the Air Fusion Technology is so efficient that it may be possible to downsize your hydraulic reservoir by up to 60%!
Most hydraulic reservoirs in major industries including pulp & paper, primary metals, and more feature a pocket of open space between the fluid level and the top of the reservoir. This open space, known as head space, fills with moisture as humid air ingresses via faulty seals, vents, and other entry points.
As the moisture builds in the head space, water condenses at the top of the reservoir, eventually coalescing and falling into the oil.
This water contamination can cause a range of serious problems which can impact your equipmentโs efficiency and may require repairs, including:
Rust
Cavitation
Sensor failures
Reduced oil lubricity
How Schroeder’s Head Space Dehydrator Helps:
Dewatering units such as the Triton Dehydration Stations are excellent for targeting water contamination when oil has already become saturated, but preventing contamination before it reaches critical levels is ideal.
The new Head Space Dehydrator is designed to combat moisture in the head space of a hydraulic reservoir before it contaminates the oil. This unit is permanently installed on a hydraulic reservoir so that humidity inside the reservoir can be managed continuously.
Here’s how it works:
The Head Space Dehydrator assembly pulls ambient air into the chamber through a series of particulate breathers.
The clean, dry air is then blown through the head space above the fluid level, displacing and venting the moist internal air though existing ventilation points.
As the moist air is displaced, the opportunity for water contamination via condensation is reduced.
Specifications:
Flow Rating:
Max flow rate 282 cfm (7985 lpm)
Blower:
1/2HP blower with 220-275/380-480V-60Hz-3 phase motor
Breathers:
Uses 4 breathers which include -0.5 psi (-0.035 bar) differential pressure indicators
Features & Benefits
Cost effective, reliable solution for water ingression
Improved oil cleanliness
Increased lifespan of oil and components
Markets & Applications
Ideal for industrial applications where water contamination may be introduced to the reservoir head space, particularly:
Steel & Primary Metals
Pulp & Paper Production
Bulk Storage
and more!
Ask the experts at Schroeder what the HSD can do for your application!
Water Contamination Can Damage Your Hydraulic System
Water contamination in hydraulic systems is a common problem, which can severely reduce the life of hydraulic systems and fluids. If your hydraulic fluid appears milky when sampled, itโs likely that your system is experiencing high levels of water contamination.
Water ingression can occur in two primary ways:
Ambient humidity, which can ingress into the reservoir headspace and condense into the oil. Humidity can vary depending on the location and season, so pay attention to the conditions your equipment operates in and monitor your fluid condition accordingly.
Pre-contamination of new fluid due to poor storage. Be sure to examine any new fluid for water contamination before introducing it into your hydraulic reservoir.
Liquid contamination in your hydraulic reservoir can cause a variety of serious problems, some irreversible.
You can expect the following if water contamination isnโt controlled:
Due to its chemical composition and density differing from oil, water can affect compressibility, impacting operational efficiency.
Water reduces oil lubricity and can lead to varnish buildup.
Water can also cause corrosion and oxidization in the system. Cavitation and damage to metal surfaces in the system may lead to costly replacements and increased downtime.
Trust the Experts in Water Removal & Dewatering Filtration
Schroeder Industries offers various products for targeting water contamination in hydraulic systems, backed by our vast expertise in fluid conditioning solutions. Our Triton Dehydrators, the TDSA and TDSE, bring proven performance across a wide range of applications where oil dehydration is needed.
The Triton Dehydration Stationยฎ series uses patented mass transfer dewatering technology to eliminate 100% of free water and up to 90% of dissolved water.
Ambient air is conditioned to increase its water holding capability before injecting to the reaction chamber.
Fluid is equally distributed and cascaded down through reticulated media and the conditioned air stream.
Water is transformed to water vapor and is expelled from the unit as moist air/stream.
View the specifications of our TDSA and TDSE units below!
Features:
Patented mass transfer technology uses ambient air to optimize and control dewatering rates
High Dewatering Rates and particulate removal in one system
2.4kW heater option for unheated reservoirs
Simple Controls; RUN/DRAIN modes
Reduce fluid recycling cost
No expensive vacuum pump to service and replace
Compact, efficient footprint
Remove free and dissolved water
Highly effective in low and high humidity environments
Specifications:
Dimensions:
45.2โ(H) x 36.7″(W) x 20.3โ(D)
Dry Mass:
295 lbs (134 kg)
Inlet Connections:
1″ SAE
Outlet Connections:
1″ SAE
Flow Rate:
120 gallons/hour or 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/min)
Permissible Inlet Pressure Range:
-5.8 psig (-0.4 bar) to 32 psia (2.2 bar)
Max. Permissible Outlet Pressure:
75 psig (5 bar)
Fluid Service Temperature:
100ยฐ F to 150ยฐF (40ยฐC to 65.5ยฐC)
Fluid Viscosity:
70- 1000 SUS (13 – 215 cSt), Explosion-proof: 500 SUS maximum
Standard, 0-99% Range Base Frame:โCarbon Steel Vessel:โStainless Steel Seals:โVitonยฎ
Protection Class:
NEMAโ2
Schroeder Success: See How This Customer Saved!
Don’t just take our word on the effectiveness of the Triton Dehydration Stationยฎ series. Review the case study below to see how a real customer benefited from these advanced dehydrators!
When an automotive parts manufacturer found high water levels in the hydraulics of a critical hydraulic press in their facility, they needed a solution quickly.
With the very close timetables of automotive part production, any downtime could be devastating to their operationsโbut solving their water contamination issues required an unobtrusive fix, too.
With a rental TDSE from Schroeder Industries, the customer was able to resolve their contamination issues, reduce their oil consumption, and maintain uptime without unduly interrupting operations.
In fact, the performance of the TDSE was so impressive that the customer ultimately purchased their own TDSA to maintain fluid quality and ensure continued high performance!
