Selecting Oils and Lubricants for Specific Environments

Hydraulic systems rely on using the right oils and lubricants for the best efficiency, reliability, and long service life.

In any industrial environment – whether extreme temperatures, food production, or outdoor plant work – choosing the correct fluid is crucial to avoiding costly downtime and premature wear.

Our Product Range

At FPS we stock oils and lubricants in pack sizes from 1L to bulk IBCs, covering:

• Hydraulic oils (ISO 32, ISO 46 and more)
• Engine and transmission oils
• Synthetic and pneumatic oils
• AdBlue, antifreeze and specialist fluids

If you need something not listed, contact our team to find out how we can help meet your requirements.

Why Your Fluid Choice Matters

The wrong fluid can result in:

• Lower efficiency from thinning or thickening oil
• Faster wear on pumps, seals and valves
• Increased risk of breakdowns or damage
• Potential safety hazards

Selecting oils carefully not only avoids failures but often reduces maintenance costs.

Matching Fluids to Conditions

Cold or Freezing Environments

Systems in outdoor plant or refrigerated warehouses demand oils that remain fluid at low temperatures. Low‑pour point oils and cold‑flow additives prevent waxing and sluggish start‑ups.

High Temperatures

Heat quickly reduces viscosity. Where operations run hot – such as quarries, recycling, or heavy industry – choose heat‑stable oils with viscosity improvers. These retain a protective film at higher operating temperatures.

Heavy‑Duty or High‑Pressure Systems

Anti‑wear (AW) oils guard against metal‑to‑metal contact under high loads. These are vital for pumps and hydraulics running at maximum pressure or in continuous duty cycles.

Environmentally Sensitive Sites

Where leaks could harm soil or waterways, biodegradable hydraulic oils are the safer option. Plant‑based fluids break down quickly and reduce environmental risk.

Food, Beverage, and Pharmaceutical Applications

Hygiene‑critical operations must use fluids certified for incidental food contact, such as NSF H1 or ISO 21469 oils. FPS can advise and supply suitable products, alongside stainless steel components for cleanroom and processing environments.

Understanding Viscosity Grades

Hydraulic fluids are classified by ISO VG (viscosity grade). Common choices include:

ISO VG 32 – thinner oil for precision equipment or air tools

ISO VG 46 – versatile, often the default in general industrial hydraulics

ISO VG 68+ – thicker oils for heavy duty or hot conditions

Choosing the wrong grade risks sluggish operation, cavitation or early wear, so align grade with both system and environment.

A Quick Checklist

Before ordering, ask:

• What environment is the system working in – cold, hot, hygiene‑critical, outdoors?
• Which base fluid fits – mineral, synthetic, or biodegradable?
• What viscosity does the system require (ISO VG grade)?
• Are any additives needed – anti‑wear, cold‑flow, stabilisers?
• Is certification required – for example NSF H1 for food areas?

How FPS Can Help

Range: Hydraulic, engine, and specialist fluids plus AdBlue and antifreeze

Flexible supply: Bottles through to IBC bulk delivery

Custom sourcing: Bespoke fluids on request

Technical advice: Our engineers match fluids to your system and compliance needs

Contact our team today for tailored advice or to request a competitive quote.