Gday all , Ive got a half a 44galon drum of hydraulic fluid that got clean rain water in it through the lid . the water is mostly on the bottom . Can I still use it ,and what will happen if a few very small droplets of water do get in Most will stay on the bottom but a few tiny ones might get in .??? thanks ---- mat
I would think if you let it sit for some time, all the water will go to the bottom as water is heavier than oil. It's only when water get's emulsified with oil that it's a problem because it won't seperate. I guess we just need to determine the best way for you to recover the oil and not get any water.
We have a filter cart with water separator elements not sure how good they work maybe you can find somone whos got one there
I would siphon the water from the bottem of the barrel, making sure it has plenty of time to settle.
If you do not need the drum just drill a 1/4 diameter hole in the side above the bottom lip and drain the water off. Then put a spout in the small bung and turn it on it's side to use the oil.
In most cases, the water should go to the bottom. But some hydraulic fluid products, such as CAT HYDO, disperse the water throughout the fluid. You should look at the technical spec sheet for the particular type of oil that you have. If in doubt, don't use the oil.
How much water is there? If you leave the drum out in the sun to get warm, the water will settle to the bottom and you should be able to drain the water off the bottom either by drilling a hole or using one the holes. The important thing is to not disturb it for a long time before you drain it off. Once you move the drum some of the water will mix with the oil again - especially near the bottom.