ISO 4406 Codes

Welcome to our guide on ISO 4406 codes, which play a crucial role in determining the cleanliness levels of hydraulic components. In this video, we'll break down the ISO 4406 codes and their significance in assessing the cleanliness of hydraulic fluids and systems.

ISO 4406 is an internationally recognized standard that provides a method for quantifying the level of particulate contamination in hydraulic fluids. This standard assigns codes based on the number of particles of a certain size per milliliter of fluid.

Understanding ISO 4406 Codes

• ISO 4406 codes consist of three numbers separated by slashes, such as 18/16/13.
• The first number represents the quantity of particles larger than 4 microns per milliliter of fluid.
• The second number represents the quantity of particles larger than 6 microns per milliliter of fluid.
• The third number represents the quantity of particles larger than 14 microns per milliliter of fluid.

For example, in the ISO code 18/16/13, there are 18 particles larger than 4 microns, 16 particles larger than 6 microns, and 13 particles larger than 14 microns per milliliter of fluid.

The cleanliness level indicated by ISO 4406 codes is crucial for maintaining the performance and longevity of hydraulic components. Contaminants such as dirt, debris, and wear particles can cause premature wear and damage to hydraulic pumps, valves, cylinders, and other components.

Significance of Cleanliness Levels

Hydraulic systems operate under high pressure and precision, making cleanliness essential for optimal performance:

• Reduced Wear: Cleaner fluids reduce the risk of abrasive particles causing wear on hydraulic components, extending their lifespan.
• Improved Efficiency: Clean hydraulic fluids ensure smoother operation and reduce the risk of system inefficiencies caused by contaminants.
• Prevention of Failures: Maintaining cleanliness within specified ISO 4406 codes helps prevent costly breakdowns and downtime due to component failures.

Regular monitoring and maintenance of hydraulic fluid cleanliness are essential to ensure compliance with ISO 4406 codes. This may involve filtration, periodic fluid analysis, and adherence to best practices for fluid handling and storage.

Application in Hydraulic Systems

ISO 4406 codes are particularly important in industries where hydraulic systems play a critical role, such as:

• Automotive manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Construction
• Oil and gas
• Marine

In these industries, maintaining precise cleanliness levels in hydraulic fluids is essential for ensuring the reliability and performance of equipment and machinery.

By understanding and adhering to ISO 4406 codes, hydraulic system operators can minimize the risk of contamination-related issues, enhance system reliability, and prolong the service life of hydraulic components.