Case Study: Temperature Stabilization and Efficiency Improvement with HydraSUM

Client: Standens, Calgary, Alberta
Industry: Manufacturing – Heavy Equipment Components
Application: 250 Ton Hannifin Hydraulic Press
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The Challenge

Standens’ operations heavily rely on the performance of their 250 Ton Hannifin Hydraulic Press, a critical component in their production line. The press faced significant challenges due to:

  1. High Operating Temperatures:
    Excessive heat during production, especially in elevated ambient temperatures, led to operational inefficiencies and potential wear on hydraulic systems.
  2. Inconsistent Performance:
    Fluctuating temperatures depending on production demand and environmental conditions resulted in unreliable performance metrics.
  3. System Longevity Concerns:
    Elevated temperatures posed risks to system stability, increasing maintenance demands and reducing equipment life.

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The Solution
To address these issues, Standens partnered with AwSUM Outcomes to trial the HydraSUM Hydraulic Oil Additive. The solution involved:

  • Additive Integration:
    • 60 liters of HydraSUM (8% treatment rate, slightly higher than the recommended 5%) were added to the hydraulic reservoir containing 760 liters of oil.
  • Performance Monitoring:
    • Oil Analysis: Conducted by AGAT Laboratories – Tribology Division to ensure no compatibility issues and to evaluate wear metals, cleanliness, and oil degradation.
    • Temperature Tracking: Maintenance staff recorded operating temperatures at key points throughout the press during a 4-week trial.

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The Results
The HydraSUM additive delivered impressive results across multiple performance indicators:

  1. 40% Reduction in Operating Temperatures:
    Temperatures decreased significantly at all monitoring points, with consistent performance regardless of ambient conditions or production demand.
  2. Temperature Stability:
    The press achieved a flat-line operating temperature, even during periods of unusually high shop ambient temperatures, improving reliability and reducing stress on the system.
  3. Compatibility and Safety:
    Oil analysis confirmed no degradation or compatibility issues, demonstrating HydraSUM’s seamless integration with existing hydraulic oil.
  4. Future Applications:
    Encouraged by these results, Standens plans to incorporate HydraSUM into additional systems, including a new cooling system being installed.

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Key Benefits

  • Enhanced Efficiency: The reduction in temperature allowed the hydraulic press to operate at peak efficiency, reducing energy loss.
  • Improved Reliability: Flat-line temperatures minimized the risk of component wear and unplanned downtime.
  • Proven Compatibility: HydraSUM’s chemical properties ensured safe use without compromising the quality or lifespan of existing hydraulic oil.
  • Scalable Solution: Based on trial success, HydraSUM can now be expanded to other applications in the plant, offering broader operational benefits.
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Client Testimonial

“We were very pleased to note a 40% reduction in operating temperature at various points on the press. Our maintenance department highly recommends assessing the viability of HydraSUM as part of regular hydraulic maintenance practices.”
— Chris Bray, Maintenance Manager, Standens
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Conclusion

The HydraSUM Hydraulic Oil Additive not only solved Standens’ immediate challenges but also proved to be a cost-effective, scalable solution for improving hydraulic system efficiency and longevity. By integrating HydraSUM into daily operations, Standens is well-positioned to reduce maintenance costs and enhance equipment performance across their plant