Lead levels in Hydraulic System Oil | Noria Message Boards

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billhydraulicsMember

Oil analysis from our mining trucks hydraulic systems indicates increasing Lead levels from 1 ppm when new to 10-15 ppm after 800 hours of operation.

The oils used in the hydraulic system meet either Allison C-4 and/or Cat TO-4 specifications. We have had no known component problems from many years of using these types of oils.

None of the other wear metals such as Copper, Tin, Iron, Nickle show increase along with the Lead.

The pumps are a gear pump (Parker HP-8) for the hoist system and a vane pump (Eaton 35VPF) for the steering system. These pumps have been used for many years. System pressure is 3000 psi for steering, 2500 psi for hoisting. Common hydraulic tank for both systems.

What ppm of Lead is considered to be indication of problems?

What is typically the cause for the Lead ppm increasing without other wear metals increasing?

Any suggestions of other sources of Lead besides the pumps?

Some fittings/tubing have Lead content, but it's difficult to believe that is the source of Lead showing up in the oil analysis.

Thank you for your insight and assistance.

2/19/088:45 AM

Original Post

renewaMember

You may want to speak to the equipment manufacturer about what is used. I believe that lead can come from a lead coated anti scuff agent used in assembly. It can also be some sort of bonding agent used in components as well. Some brass and bronze components can have traces of lead.

The lead showing up in the analysis report is probably an electrochemical reaction with the oil's additives rather than actual lead material wearing away.

You may want to get a filterpatch test done on the sample - view under microscope to see if there is any wear material present.

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