How does temperature affect oxidation rates in hydraulic fluids?

Higher temperatures increase oxidation rates in hydraulic fluids due to the heightened kinetic energy that facilitates chemical reactions. At elevated temperatures, molecules move more rapidly, leading to increased collisions among them, which accelerates the oxidation process. This phenomenon is particularly significant in hydraulic systems, where operating at high temperatures can result in rapid deterioration of the fluid. The rate of oxidation tends to double for every 10-degree Celsius increase in temperature, emphasizing the critical impact of thermal conditions on fluid longevity and performance.

In contrast, while lower temperatures can indeed reduce oxidation rates by slowing down molecular movement, this does not negate the potential impact of other factors such as the fluid's chemical composition. Oxidation is a complex reaction influenced not just by temperature but also by the presence of contaminants and the quality of additives within the hydraulic fluid. Thus, while other factors are relevant, the correlation between higher temperatures and increased oxidation is a well-established principle in fluid dynamics and maintenance practices.