A fire resistant hydraulic fluid complies with the latest Group 1-Factory Mutual standard 6930 that becomes effective from July 1st 2003 and offers double the in-service life of comparable products.

Castrol has launched a new fire resistant hydraulic fluid to comply with the latest Group 1-Factory Mutual standard 6930 that becomes effective from July 1st 2003. The new fluid combines a best-in-class fire protection rating with more than double the in-service life of comparable products. Called Anvol SWX, the new Polyol Ester fluid offers significantly higher fire protection than traditional mineral hydraulic fluids and a 12% higher fire point than any other Group 1 fluid.

Tests also showed that Castrol Anvol SWX lasted two-and-a-half times longer than comparable fluids, significantly extending its operational life.

Commenting on the launch, Daryl Luke Castrol European Product Manager - lubricants says fluids such as Anvol SWX are essential for the safe, cost-effective operation of hydraulic systems in any plant where there is a risk of fire.

'In a steel mill, for example, a broken hydraulic hose could cause fluid to leak at pressures of up to 5,000psi, with potentially disastrous results if a traditional fluid came into contact with a naked flame or a hot or molten metal.' He says.

Castrol Anvol SWX also offers the potential for cost savings in areas of fire risk as Factory Mutual does not require expensive secondary fire-suppression equipment to be installed if a Group 0 or Group 1 fluid is used.

Other important benefits include a safer working environment for staff and, by minimising sludging and varnishing, a lower risk of damage to vital equipment such as valves and pumps, with a resultant reduction in production stoppages.

Improved corrosion protection, even in the worst water conditions, limits the threat to internal ferrous components in the hydraulic system and better wear protection properties for moving parts helps to reduce hydraulic pump maintenance and replacement costs.