The TAN neutralization number in hydraulic fluid indicates what?

The TAN (Total Acid Number) neutralization number in hydraulic fluid is a crucial parameter that indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the fluid. It measures the concentration of acidic components present in the hydraulic oil. A higher TAN value suggests a greater acidic nature, which could lead to potential corrosion and degradation of both the hydraulic fluid and the system components over time. By monitoring the TAN, technicians can assess fluid quality and determine when a fluid change is necessary to prevent damage and maintain system efficiency. This makes understanding TAN important for managing the health of hydraulic systems.

Moisture content is measured through different parameters, and the weight of the fluid sample is unrelated to acidity or alkalinity. Contamination level typically refers to particles or foreign substances present in the fluid, which is a separate issue from the chemical properties measured by TAN.