What is hydraulic fluid and why can it be dangerous?

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Just read about this the other day and I still don’t understand

1. what hydraulic fluid exactly is and what it’s for

2. why it can be so dangerous when you mess with it

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13 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Hydraulic fluid can be most any fluid. Liquids don’t compress like air and are useful for brakes, jacks, lifts, and similar items. When it’s pumped into the expansion chamber it doesn’t compress so raises the ram/lift in a consistent and predictable manner.

Most hydraulic fluid is an oil. Doesn’t cause rust, self lubricates, and doesn’t have issues with seals or hoses made for it.

Most petroleum oils are toxic to humans.
It isn’t easy to catch on fire but messy when it is.
If there is a leak it could allow a heavy opbjecto to fall, or if a car or motorcycle brake, it could be the reason for an accident.

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