HLP 46 Hydraulic Oil Explained: Everything You Need to Know
By Travis Knappett, Kompo® Oil & Grease Specialist at HTS Spares.
Hydraulic oil plays a critical role in keeping industrial and mobile machinery operating efficiently, safely, and reliably. One of the most widely used grades across Europe and beyond is HLP 46 hydraulic oil.
But what does HLP 46 actually mean, and how do you know if it’s the right choice for your equipment?
At HTS Spares, we have been supplying the plant hire industry with premium lubrication solutions for decades. This guide explains everything you need to know about HLP 46 hydraulic oil and where it fits in modern hydraulic systems.
What Is HLP 46 Hydraulic Oil?
HLP 46 is a mineral-based, anti-wear hydraulic oil that complies with DIN 51524 Part 2 - one of the most recognised international standards for hydraulic lubricants.
The designation breaks down as follows:
- HLP: Hydraulic oil with anti-wear (AW) additives, oxidation inhibitors, and corrosion protection
- 46: The oil’s ISO viscosity grade (ISO VG 46), indicating its thickness at operating temperature
This combination makes HLP 46 a reliable, all-round hydraulic oil suitable for a wide range of applications.
What Does ISO VG 46 Mean?
The ISO VG (Viscosity Grade) system classifies oils by their resistance to flow at 40°C.
- ISO VG 46 has a kinematic viscosity of approximately 46 mm²/s at 40°C
- It offers an excellent balance between:
- Smooth pump operation
- Strong lubricating film
- Efficient power transmission
Because of this balance, HLP 46 hydraulic oil is one of the most commonly specified grades for both industrial and mobile hydraulic systems.
Key Benefits of HLP46 Hydraulic Oil
High-quality HLP 46 hydraulic oils (such as those in the KOMPO® range from HTS Spares) deliver several critical performance benefits:
- Excellent Anti-Wear Protection - Protects pumps, valves, pistons, and bearings from premature wear, extending component life.
- Strong Oxidation Stability - Resists oil breakdown at high operating temperatures, helping to maintain performance over extended service intervals.
- Corrosion & Rust Protection - Safeguards internal system components, even in environments exposed to moisture or humidity.
- Reliable Film Strength - Maintains consistent lubrication under pressure, reducing friction and energy loss.
Typical Applications for HLP46 Hydraulic Oil
HLP 46 is suitable for a broad range of industrial and mobile equipment, including:
- Hydraulic presses and power units
- Scissor lifts and lifting platforms
- CNC and machine tools
- Forklifts and warehouse equipment
- Excavators, loaders, and agricultural machinery
- Injection moulding machines
The KOMPO® HLP 46 hydraulic oil supplied by HTS Spares is formulated to meet these demands, making it a dependable choice for both OEMs and maintenance teams.
Why Choose KOMPO® Hydraulic Oils from HTS Spares?
At HTS Spares, we understand that lubrication is critical to equipment reliability and operating efficiency. That’s why our KOMPO® range of oils and greases is engineered to deliver:
- Compliance with DIN 51524 Part 2 standards
- Consistent quality and performance
- Excellent wear protection and system cleanliness
- Compatibility with seals and system components
Whether you’re maintaining industrial machinery, mobile plant, or agricultural equipment, KOMPO® hydraulic oils provide dependable protection you can trust.
Final Thoughts: Is HLP46 Right for Your System?
If your hydraulic system operates in moderate temperature conditions and requires a reliable, anti-wear hydraulic oil, HLP 46 is often the ideal choice. Its balance of viscosity, protection, and stability explains why it remains one of the most widely used hydraulic oils across multiple industries.
For more advice, or to source high-quality HLP 46 hydraulic oil, please contact me, I would be pleased to assist - travis.knappett@htsspares.com / 01432 373350
