For utility construction projects, hydraulic oil is the essential lifeblood that powers Vermeer equipment through challenging subsurface conditions. Utility applications place extreme demands on machinery, requiring hydraulic systems that can deliver consistent performance in variable soil conditions. The hydraulic pump circulates fluid to generate the precise control needed for drilling and excavation operations. Beyond power transmission, this specialized fluid provides critical lubrication for components working in high-pressure environments, removes heat from critical components during sustained drilling operations and controls subsurface contaminants including soil particles, acids, varnish and air that can impact utility equipment.
Hydraulic fluid properties can vary greatly from product to product. While there are only a few common base stocks for hydraulic oils, additives vary from each supplier. These additives, as well as different oil grades, create unique performance and cost differences between hydraulic oils.
A good hydraulic oil formulation for utility applications can be just as, if not more, complex than the components that rely on it to run. That’s why most component manufacturers have distinct oil specifications. For instance, Vermeer Hy Power hydraulic fluids possess characteristics engineered to optimize component performance in utility equipment like horizontal directional drills (HDD), utility tractors, trenchers, vibratory plows and pile drivers — taking the guesswork out of selecting a hydraulic fluid.
Engineering precision hydraulic performance for utility applications
Vermeer Hy Power hydraulic oils deliver specialized protection for Vermeer utility equipment, providing the reliability contractors need for completing complex installations. These advanced formulations are specifically engineered to maintain precise control during critical operations while withstanding the pressure fluctuations and sustained loads experienced while drilling and trenching. The exceptional stability of these purpose-designed oils minimizes downtime for maintenance — a crucial advantage on utility projects where equipment accessibility for service can be limited and where performance of HDD, utility tractors, trenchers, vibratory plows and pile drivers directly impacts project timelines.
Matching hydraulic oils to utility applications
It all starts with the right oil viscosity. Oil viscosity refers to how easily an oil pours at a specified temperature. The correct viscosity grade needs to be selected for the machine and the temperature. The appropriate viscosity provides hydrodynamic film protection which prevents metal-to-metal contact. Too low of viscosity increases wear and inefficiency from internal leakage, while too high of viscosity decreases efficiency and can cause starting issues.
The hydraulic oil must also have the correct viscosity index for utility equipment. The viscosity index is a measurement of a hydraulic fluid’s resistance to losing viscosity at increasing temperatures. Two oils with the same viscosity grade can have different viscosities at the same operating temperature — a crucial consideration for equipment like HDD and pile drivers that operate under variable load conditions.
Testing determines the right formulation for underground equipment
Wear protection in hydraulic components and gear scuffing characteristics vary by formulation. Thermal stability, hydrolytic stability, filterability and air release are all determined by the specific formulation — factors that directly impact the performance of utility machinery.
The right combination of these characteristics determines the best oil for specific utility applications. Engineers use industry-standard tests to determine the benchmark for each characteristic. Comprehensive research ensures that Hy Power hydraulic fluid is optimized for high performance and to help protect Vermeer utility equipment, including HDD, utility tractors, trenchers, vibratory plows and pile drivers.
Avoid mixing oils in your underground equipment
When topping off oils in the field, it may be tempting to use a hydraulic fluid that is conveniently available. However, you should avoid doing just that. Many hydraulic oil additives are not compatible with those from different oils. Don’t mix Hy Power hydraulic oil with other brands, as it could have negative impacts on machine performance and warranty coverage for your utility equipment.
Selecting a hydraulic oil that meets all of the criteria for utility applications is a complex task. Vermeer engineers have done all the homework for you, providing an optimized solution: Hy Power hydraulic oil. Take the guesswork out of hydraulic oil selection to drive uptime and help protect your utility equipment investment.
Contact your Vermeer dealer to learn which Hy Power hydraulic oil is right for your utility application.
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