Oil maintenance for mobile and stationary hydraulic systems in military engineering
Military hydraulic systems are subject to extreme conditions: varying climatic zones, long periods of inactivity, high load cycles, dust, moisture and the need to be ready for action at all times. Whether in armoured vehicles, naval systems, stationary power plants or logistical facilities – the reliability of the hydraulic system determines the availability of the entire system.
Operational reliability starts with professional engine oil maintenance
Contaminated hydraulic oil is one of the main causes of wear, malfunctions and premature component failure. It is estimated that over 70–80 per cent of all hydraulic failures are attributable to particle contamination. Particles, water and oxidation products damage valves, pumps and seals – often gradually and without being noticed for a long time.
Modern oil maintenance using bypass filtration comes into play precisely here: rather than filtering only the main flow, a defined sub-flow is continuously and extremely thoroughly cleaned. This ensures that even the smallest particles and harmful ageing by-products are permanently removed from the oil – regardless of the plant’s operating
Mobile and stationary hydraulic solutions for maximum flexibility
Flexible solutions are particularly in demand in the defence sector. The product range includes:
- Stationary side-stream filtration (e.g. Argo-Hytos side-stream filtration systems) for permanently installed systems
- Mobile bypass filtration for changing locations, field repairs or service call-outs
- Portable service units, including the compact CFP 03 filter unit, for targeted oil maintenance directly on the system
Mobile service units enable targeted oil maintenance to be carried out directly on the system – even under operating conditions and without the need for external laboratory facilities. This ensures that the hydraulic system remains efficient, without lengthy downtimes or complex oil-change procedures.
Oil cleaning instead of an oil change
A key principle of modern defence maintenance is: oil purification rather than oil changes. Continuous bypass filtration ensures that:
- The oil cleanliness class (in accordance with ISO 4406 or NAS 1638) significantly improves the fluid’s service life in the long term
- reduces wear on critical components such as pumps, proportional valves and seals
- minimises the risk of unplanned downtime
The result is an efficient and sustainable fluid management system that reduces logistical burdens, conserves resources and enhances security of supply – a crucial advantage during international operations.
Benefits for military systems engineering
Improved system availability
Extended service life of oil and components
Reduced maintenance and repair costs
Minimised risks of failure during operation
Sustainable use of operating materials
A contribution to modern lifecycle strategies in the defence sector
Defence oil care products
Argo-Hytos side-stream filtration systems
Argo-Hytos’s bypass filter systems are suitable for both stationary and mobile applications. They can be operated in the bypass circuit of hydraulic and lubricating oil systems and enable continuous filtration without interrupting the main circuit.
About bypass filter systems 
CFP 03 Compact Filter Unit
The ultra-lightweight and ergonomic CFP 03 has been specially developed for the maintenance and servicing of small hydraulic power units. It offers an ideal solution for filling and flushing hydraulic systems – even where access to the oil tank is difficult or work is being carried out at height.
About compact filter units Oil maintenance through bypass filtration is more than just routine maintenance – it is a strategic contribution to the operational readiness of military systems. Reliable hydraulics start with clean oil!