How It Works
Heat Generation in Hydraulic Systems
Every hydraulic system converts some input power to heat. The heat generated equals the wasted power:
Heat (BTU/hr) = HP × 2545 × (1 - efficiency)
- HP = Input horsepower to pump
- 2545 = BTU per HP-hour
- efficiency = Overall system efficiency (decimal)
Cooler Sizing
The oil cooler must reject at least the heat generated. Cooler capacity depends on the temperature differential between oil and ambient:
Cooler Flow = Heat / (500 × delta-T) GPM through cooler
where 500 = specific heat factor for petroleum oil (BTU/hr per GPM per deg F).
Cooling Capacity Calculator
Size hydraulic oil coolers based on system horsepower, efficiency, and temperature limits.
Typical: 60-85% overall
Power Distribution
Useful: -- HPWaste Heat: -- HP
Cooling Results
Heat Generated--
Recommended Cooler--
Oil Flow Through Cooler--
Heat in kW--
Temperature Rise Allowance--
Wasted HP--
Cooler Safety Margin (1.25x)--
Cooler Sizing Guide
| Heat Load | Cooler Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| <10,000 BTU/hr | Air-oil, small | Fan cooled |
| 10-50k BTU/hr | Air-oil, medium | Industrial |
| 50-200k BTU/hr | Water-oil | Shell & tube |
| >200k BTU/hr | Large water-oil | Plate type |