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Improper storage of hydraulic fluids can result in water and dirt contamination of the fluid which eventually ends up in an aircraft hydraulic system. This can cause premature failure of the fluid and corrosion of system components.
By following proper storage and transfer procedures of the hydraulic fluids, the contamination problem can be eliminated. The recommended practice is as follows:
- Store drums indoors whenever possible, and always keep lids securely tightened except when transferring fluid. Smaller containers such as 5 gallon, 1 gallon and quart cans should be stored indoors only.
- When transferring fluid, take care that pumps, filters and transfer lines are clean and dry.
- Store drums horizontally, if possible, to prevent water collection on the drum lid. If the drums cannont be stored horizontally, they should be blocked up and tilted so that any water collection on the lid will not cover the bungs.
- For all size containers, the use of pallets, racks or shelves is suggested to prevent contact with ground moisture.
- Fluids should be sampled and analyzed whenever there is a question of useability.
- The shelf life of all Skydrol hydraulic fluid is 10 years from the date of manufacture. This applies only to factory-sealed, unopened containers with proper storage.
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