Choosing the Right Reservoir

In today's industrial world, hydraulic systems play a crucial role in powering machinery and equipment. However, hydraulic systems can be complex and require careful consideration to operate efficiently and safely. One crucial component of a hydraulic system is the reservoir, which stores the hydraulic fluid that powers the system. Let’s take a look at the three key factors to consider when choosing a reservoir for an industrial application.

Fluid Compatibility

When selecting a reservoir for an industrial hydraulic system, it's essential to consider fluid compatibility. The reservoir material must be chemically compatible with the hydraulic fluid in the system. Failure to ensure compatibility can result in chemical reactions that can degrade either the reservoir material or the hydraulic fluid, leading to system failure. For instance, hydraulic fluids that contain water or glycol should not be used with steel reservoirs since they can cause corrosion, which leads to leaks and system damage. Additionally, certain additives found in hydraulic fluids may not be compatible with plastic reservoirs, making them unsuitable. Hence, it is critical to ensure compatibility by carefully reviewing the fluid and reservoir specifications to prevent system damage.

Size Matters 

Properly sizing a hydraulic reservoir is crucial for ensuring optimal system performance and longevity. If a reservoir is too small, it can lead to inadequate fluid supply, which can result in overheating and increased wear on system components. Conversely, a reservoir that is too large can lead to unnecessarily high costs and reduced efficiency. To determine the correct size of a reservoir, it's essential to consider factors such as the system's flow rate, the operating temperature range, and the required fluid volume to meet demand. Maintaining a proper fluid volume is also important as it enables absorption and heat transfer away from the system, which helps maintain a consistent temperature. By accurately sizing the reservoir, the system will have sufficient fluid capacity to meet its demands, prevent overheating, and reduce wear on components.

Environmental/Operating Conditions

The environment where the hydraulic system will operate is another important factor to consider. System that will operate in harsh environments, such as outdoors, must be made of materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, UV radiation, chemical exposure, and other environmental factors. Hydraulic systems that operate in a marine environment must use a reservoir made of materials resistant to saltwater corrosion. In addition to the material selection, the reservoir must be adequately sealed to prevent water, dust, or other contaminants from entering the hydraulic system. Failure to choose an appropriate reservoir can result in significant system damage and reduced service life. 

Expert Design for Optimal Performance

Choosing the right reservoir can make a significant difference in your hydraulic system's efficiency, maintenance costs, and lifespan. At FSC Inc., our team of experienced professionals can assist you in selecting the appropriate size and fluid volume for your hydraulic system's specific requirements. We specialize in custom fabrication of reservoirs using materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you design and install the ideal reservoir for your industrial application.

Dream it. Build it. Find it. Fix it.

When you partner with Fluid System Components (FSC), you gain access to a dedicated team that offers comprehensive support in all aspects of fluid power in the mobile and industrial industries. Backed by technical expertise, efficient distribution, precision manufacturing, and responsive service and repair, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. To learn more about our services, reach out to us at (920) 337-0234 or by email at fscinfo@fscinc.com.