Zinc has been a common component of hydraulic fluids for decades due to its ability to resist wear and oxidation. But as the environmental impacts of zinc have become more evident in recent years, many are looking to alternative options.

As such, development of zinc-free hydraulic fluids is on the rise. In my conversation with Lubrizol’s Josh Dickstein, Ph.D., and Ryan Konrad, they note several advancements continue to be made in terms of additive chemistries, wear protection and more for these fluids, which is aiding their growing market adoption. While some development challenges remain, they see use of zinc-free hydraulic fluids continuing to grow in the years ahead.

Have you seen greater requests for zinc-free hydraulic fluids in the market? How, if at all, are these fluids impacting the design of hydraulic system components? Let me know your thoughts by emailing me at [email protected].

Sara Jensen, Editor, Power & Motion