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AMSOIL offers earth-friendly biodegradable hydraulic oil


A new biodegradable hydraulic oil from AMSOIL that combines low-toxicity with high lubricity properties offers farmers and ranchers an environmentally- friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based products.

The product is made with high quality oleic vegetable oil, synthetic esters and an anti-wear additive package that contains no heavy metals, says Mike Caruso, technical product manager for AMSOIL, Inc.

"AMSOIL Biodegradable Hydraulic Oil (BHO) is a premium hydraulic oil that, in most instances, will perform as well, if not better than a conventional petroleum hydraulic oil," he says. Designed to biodegrade when subjected to sunlight, water and microbial activity, it meets the U.S. federal bio-based procurement guidelines as defined in Section 9002 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (FSRIA).

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"Its high biodegradability helps insure no long term contamination will remain in a spill area as a result of the oil, and its low toxicity reduces the risk of harming crops, livestock, and water sources should a hydraulic leak occur," Caruso says. "Because of its very high viscosity index, BHO will protect the hydraulic pump and provide better hydraulic performance over a wider temperature range than average petroleum oil. Also, its high lubricity qualities help reduce pump wear."

The product, which is compatible with common seal and hose materials, protects against corrosion, oxidation, foam, and easily separates from water, he says. The ashless (non-metal containing) additive package eliminates the possibility of heavy metal contamination, while the sheer stability of BHO helps maintain viscosity over the life of the oil. The product meets the stringent Vickers M-2950-S and I-286-S standards for quality and is recommended for applications that require an ISO VG 46 anti-wear hydraulic oil.

In tests against a leading major brand of biodegradable hydraulic oil, AMSOIL BHO was found to be more resistant to oxidation. In addition, its features compare very favorably to similar oils on the market, Caruso says.

"Like all hydraulic oils, BHO's service life depends on proper hydraulic system maintenance and proper contamination, water, and heat control," he says. "Testing indicates BHO will last as long as a conventional hydraulic fluid under normal conditions."

However, Caruso notes, AMSOIL Biodegradable Hydraulic Oil is not an STOU (Super Tractor Oil Universal) fluid or a Universal Tractor Transmission Oil (UTTO), and cannot be used in engines and transmissions.

"We encourage anyone who needs assistance determining if BHO is the correct choice for their application to contact AMSOIL technical services for expert advice," he says.

BHO is compatible with most synthetic and petroleum-based hydraulic oils. However, to insure proper performance, Caruso recommends draining and flushing the hydraulic system when switching from a conventional hydraulic oil to BHO.

"To minimize any carryover contamination, remove as much of the old oil as possible and change the filters before refilling the system with BHO," Caruso says. "Like any hydraulic fluid, BHO should be disposed of in accordance with local, federal, and state laws."

AMSOIL BHO is available in a 5-gallon pail ($177.75), a 55-gallon drum ($1,804.00) and 275 gallon tote ($8,992.50). Discounts of up 10 percent are available depending on volume.

Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the International Agri-Center and Farm Press when reprinting this item.

AmSoil Inc. BHO

COMPANY: AMSOIL INC.
CONTACT: Technical:  Mike Caruso      Sales:  Steve LePage
ADDRESS: 925 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI 54880
WEBSITE: www.amsoil.com
E-MAIL: mcaruso@amsoil.com    slepage@amsoil.com
PHONE: 715-399-6331                           715-399-6456
BOOTH SPACE: 3217

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Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the
International Agri-Center when reprinting this item.