Abstract
The use of lubricants and hydraulic fluids of both mineral and synthetic origin in agricultural processes could have a deep impact on the environment as a result of their possible dispersion in the ground and aquifers. Replacing them with bio-based fluids, developed to provide good tribological properties and high biodegradability, could contribute to reducing their negative effects. The evaluation of the capacity of such innovative fluids to replace the conventional ones is based on work cycles lasting as long as their lifetime, during which their characteristics must prove to be at least equal to those of the fluids they replace. To shorten the evaluation process, CREA (Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia Agraria) developed a fluid test rig (FTR) and related test method, able to apply severe work cycles on small oil volumes, thereby accelerating the aging of the fluid beyond what typically occurs. This paper reports the results of the tests on FTR’s functionality carried out comparing two UTTO (Universal Tractor Transmission Oil) fluids: a widespread conventional fluid and an experimental vegetable-based oil. The FTR will permit, in a relatively short time, the assessment of the most promising formulations to be tested later under real working conditions, e.g., in agricultural tractors, reducing the risk of damage, before their ultimate introduction into the operating reality.
Highlights
Among agricultural machines, the self-propelled ones require higher amounts of oils for operating the hydraulic system and for the lubrication of the transmissions [1]
This paper describes the fluid test rig (FTR) and the test methodology (TM) and reports the results of the tests on FTR’s functionality, carried out with two Universal Tractor Transmission Oil (UTTO) fluids: a conventional one widespread on the market and an experimental vegetable oil-based formulation provided by Novamont S.p.A
The thermal stress on the fluid within the hydraulic section of FTR seems to be more intense than in tractors: in addition to the natural 20 ◦C thermal leap caused by the instantaneous pressure increase, a further fluid thermal leap of about 20 ◦C is produced by the fluid heating system
Summary
The self-propelled ones require higher amounts of oils for operating the hydraulic system and for the lubrication of the transmissions [1]. The oils used in agricultural machines are commonly mineral or synthetic and specific fluids, defined according to SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) international standards; they are generally recommended by the manufacturers on the basis of functional tests, performed internally or entrusted to specialized test centres [2], aimed at optimizing their machines’ performances during an interval of time of the longest possible duration. Shear stress due to high temperatures and pressures in hydraulic plants [13], mechanical-thermal stress caused by power transmission inside gearboxes [14] and the presence of contaminants [15] are some of the main factors that, individually or combined, can affect oil properties and accelerate its degradation
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
