1. Scope

1.1 This classification covers all unused fully formulated hydraulic fluids in their original form.

1.2 This classification establishes categories for the impact of hydraulic fluids on different environmental compartments as shown in . Fluids are assigned designations within these categories; for example PwL, Pwe, and so forth, based on performance in specified tests.

1.3 In the current version of this classification the aspects of environmental impact included are environmental persistence of which biodegradability is one component and acute ecotoxicity. Although environmental persistence is discussed first, this classification does not imply that considerations of environmental persistence should take precedence over concerns for ecotoxicity.

1.4 Another important aspect of environmental impact is bioaccumulation. This aspect is not addressed in the present classification because adequate test methods do not yet exist to measure bioaccumulation of hydraulic fluids.

1.5 The present classification addresses the fresh water and soil environmental compartments. At this time marine and anaerobic environmental compartments are not included, although they are pertinent for many uses of hydraulic fluids. Hydraulic fluids are expected to have no significant impact on the atmosphere; therefore that compartment is not addressed.

1.6 This classification addresses releases to the environment which are incidental to the use of a hydraulic fluid. The classification is not intended to address environmental impact in situations of major, accidental release. Nothing in this classification should be taken to relieve the user of the responsibility to properly use and dispose of hydraulic fluids.

1.7 This classification does not cover any performance properties of a hydraulic fluid which relate to its performance in a hydraulic system.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D5291 Test Methods for Instrumental Determination of Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen in Petroleum Products and Lubricants

D5864 Test Method for Determining Aerobic Aquatic Biodegradation of Lubricants or Their Components

D6006 Guide for Assessing Biodegradability of Hydraulic Fluids

D6081 Practice for Aquatic Toxicity Testing of Lubricants: Sample Preparation and Results Interpretation

E943 Terminology Relating to Biological Effects and Environmental Fate

E1440 Guide for Acute Toxicity Test with the Rotifer Brachionus

ISO Standards

OECD Standards

US EPA Tests

Environmental Canada Test Methods

Other Standards

Keywords

biodegradation; ecotoxicity; environmental persistence; hydraulic fluid; insoluble material; Biodegradation--petroleum products; Ecotoxicity; Environmental monitoring; Hydraulic fluids/oils; Insoluble matter content--petroleum products

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 75.120 (Hydraulic fluids)

DOI: 10.1520/D6046-98A

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