Hydraulic Oil Coolers

Hydraulic oil coolers are essential devices designed to prevent the hydraulic fluid used in a variety of industrial equipment from overheating. In many cases, this overheating is caused by energy losses in a system as well as high ambient temperatures and other external sources of heat. Over time, overheated hydraulic oil can cause excessive wear on seals and other components, causing performance issues or even failure of the whole system.

Cooling the hydraulic oil is a key component in a system to ensure that it operates within an optimal working temperature range, protecting all components of the equipment and extending its life span. There are a number of different types of hydraulic oil coolers available, from air to water based, but they all operate on the same principle of cooling by passing heated oil through a coil or core in a heat exchanger to remove excess thermal energy.

Most hydraulic systems use pressurised oil to actuate machine parts or lift heavy loads. During this operation, friction and compression are unavoidable and generate thermal energy in the form of heat which is transferred to the oil. The cooling capacity of the oil is typically limited and overheating can occur if the system is operated for prolonged periods or in hot environments.

Hydraulic cooling is therefore an important part of any hydraulic system and is often integrated in a pump to ensure that the oil is cooled before it is used. The best way to achieve this is through the use of a hydraulic oil cooler or heat exchanger. The heat exchanger consists of a series of tubes which are exposed to a constant flow of low temperature cooling medium, such as water or air. The cooling medium absorbs the heat and sheds it into the atmosphere. The resulting cooled fluid then flows back into the hydraulic system.

Bowman manufacture a large range of hydraulic coolers for a wide variety of applications. All our models are suitable for marine use and if properly maintained can be expected to operate reliably for decades. In fact, we regularly hear of customers who have Bowman marine oil coolers operating for over 40 years!

We offer a wide range of sizes, cooling capacities and power outputs of our Hydraulic Oil Coolers to suit all budgets. If you are unsure of which model is best for your application, please feel free to contact one of our technical experts who will be happy to help.

A mobile hydraulic oil cooler can be fitted to a range of machinery including Hydraulic Power Packs, Power Washers and Engines. Our standard OC and HC Series coolers can be used in either air or forced-air versions depending on application and operating conditions. Air cooled coolers pass the hydraulic fluid through a radiator-like core with finned tubes, allowing air to flow over and around the tubes to remove heat. Forced-air coolers have a fan that creates powered air flow to the radiator-like core and are usually used in slow moving or stationary mobile applications. For a more tailored solution, we also offer a full range of brazed plate and shell and tube coolers that can be built to customer specification.hydraulic oil coolers