Hydraulic Reservoir & Oil Cooling Calculator
Size industrial hydraulic reservoir tanks (2x to 5x pump GPM), deaeration dwell time, natural surface heat dissipation, and supplementary oil cooler capacity.
Pump Delivery & Application
Operating Temperatures
Reservoir & Cooling Sizing
Recommended Tools & Equipment
Tested hardware and components for high reliability
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the traditional 3x pump flow rule of thumb used for reservoir sizing?
A reservoir holding 3 times the pump GPM gives circulating oil a minimum of 3 minutes of residence time. This dwell time allows entrained air bubbles to separate and dissipate at the surface, heavy dirt and wear metal particles to settle to the bottom before reaching the suction strainer, and heat to radiate through the steel tank walls.
What is the purpose of an internal reservoir baffle plate?
A vertical baffle plate separates the return line discharge chamber from the pump suction chamber. It forces returning hot, aerated fluid to travel around the tank perimeter, maximizing cooling against exterior walls and preventing high-velocity turbulence from being ingested straight into the pump suction.
What maximum oil operating temperature should be maintained?
Mineral hydraulic oils should be maintained between 120°F and 140°F (49°C - 60°C). Operating above 140°F causes rapid oxidation, doubles fluid breakdown rate every 18°F rise, hardens nitrile rubber seals, and leads to valve varnish and sticking.