ABSTRACT
Fluid power engineers and users have traditionally selected hydraulic –uids based on mineral oil because they have high-performance characteristics and are economically favorable. External factors, however, often dictate an alternative selection. One major concern is the potential –ammability of mineral-oil-based hydraulic –uids. Major capital and personnel losses have occurred because of hydraulic-–uid-related res [1]. More recently, potential environmental problems associated with mineral-oil –uids have gained notoriety. These problems include low rates of biodegradability, aquatic toxicity, handling of contaminated material, and high waste-treatment costs.
