Fire Resistance in Aircraft: The Science Behind Castrol Brayco Micronic 882 Hydraulic Fluid

Continuing our series of articles on common lubricants and fluids for aircraft systems, we are looking at Brayco Micronic 882 today. In the earlier days of powered flight, hydraulic fluid was one of the most dangerous fluids on the aircraft. Unlike conventional hydraulic fluids, modern synthetic blends are formulated with a higher fire point and very low flame propagation to make operations safer and more predictable in an emergency.

Brayco Micronic 882 is a MIL-PRF-83282 compliant fire-resistant hydraulic fluid, and Greenwood Aerospace is your preferred vendor!

Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluid

Even in recent years, occasional events on aircraft show that even with modern fire-resistant fluids, there is still a high level of risk. The B-1 fleet has suffered two catastrophic losses in the past decade, both of which involved hydraulic system fires.

Fire-resistant hydraulic fluid is a must in aircraft hydraulic systems. Although it is not fireproof, it significantly reduces the likelihood of a hydraulic fluid fire event, which is a really good thing.

When mineral oils were standard on all aircraft, a highly flammable fluid was captured in a system that might be pressurized up to 3,000 psi. When something happens, like a swage fitting decides to blow out, or worse yet, a tire blows out and debris cuts through hydraulic lines in one of the landing gear, you now have what amounts to a high-pressure hose spraying flammable fluids all over the place, including on hot brakes. This is not a good situation.

Unlike regular hydraulic fluids, fire-resistant fluids like Castrol Brayco Micronic 882 are made to meet the fluid requirements of a high flash point, low foaming fluid with good corrosion resistance.

MIL-PRF-83282D is a specification for fire-resistant hydraulic fluids, which Castrol Brayco Micronic 882 meets.

Properties of Castrol Brayco Micronic 882

Alright, let’s talk about the physical properties of Brayco 882. 

Castrol Brayco® Micronic 882 is a synthetic, fire-resistant hydraulic fluid designed for aircraft, missiles, and various industrial applications where fire safety and low toxicity are critical concerns. This red-colored fluid is based on synthetic hydrocarbons and meets the requirements of military specification MIL-PRF-83282D, Amendment 11.

Key features include:

  • Wide temperature range: Operates effectively from -40°C to 205°C.

  • High fire safety: Exhibits a high flash point (224°C), a high fire point (250°C), and a very high auto-ignition point, with minimal flame spread.

  • Compatibility: Can directly replace MIL-PRF-5606 and is fully compatible with MIL-PRF-6083 fluids.

  • Performance: Offers low foaming, strong anti-wear characteristics, good corrosion and oxidation resistance, and controlled rubber swell to extend seal life.

  • Physical properties: Has a viscosity index of 129, a pour point of -63°C, and low water content (41 ppm).

  • Cleanliness: Specially filtered to micronic specifications, ensuring low levels of solid particle contamination.

Packaging options include 55-gallon drums, 6-gallon cases, and 24-quart cases. Greenwood Aerospace is pleased to offer Brayco 882 in 55-gallon drums, so call us at (580) 762-2580 for a price quote!

Handling and safety: While classified as a non-hazardous material under NOHSC criteria, Brayco Micronic 882 is considered a C2 combustible liquid for storage. It should be kept in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from ignition sources and incompatible materials. Spills should be absorbed with inert material and disposed of at approved facilities, and the fluid must not be released into the environment.

For detailed storage, handling, and disposal instructions, users are advised to consult the product’s Material Safety Data Sheet.‍

Compared to Other Hydraulic Fluids

Compared to regular hydraulic fluids, Castrol Brayco Micronic 882 has better fire resistance and thermal stability. MIL-PRF-5606 is another spec for hydraulic fluids, but has lower fire resistance and thermal stability than MIL-PRF-83282D. However, Brayco 882 is a direct replacement for all MIL PRF 5606 applications, allowing you to update your fluids with a fluid formulated for improved fire resistance. 

This fluid’s properties, including a high flash point and low flame propagation, make it a good alternative to phosphate ester fluid.

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Maintenance and Safety for Castrol Brayco

Here are a few basic tips for maintenance and safety for Castrol Brayco 882. For a full breakdown, always refer to the SDS. 

Here is our breakdown of the key safety features of Brayco Micronic 882 hydraulic fluid:

Brayco Micronic 882 Safety Data Sheet – Key Points

  • Product Overview:
    Brayco Micronic 882 is a synthetic hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic systems. 
  • Hazard Identification:
    • Main hazard: Fatal if swallowed and enters airways (Aspiration Hazard, H304).
    • Other effects: Can cause skin dryness or irritation due to defatting. High-pressure injection injuries are a serious medical emergency.
    • No PBT/vPvB concerns: Does not contain substances classified as persistent, bioaccumulative, or toxic.
  • Composition:
    • Major component: 1-Decene, homopolymer, hydrogenated (50–75%).
    • Additives: Contains phosphate esters in low concentrations, which are hazardous to aquatic life.
  • First Aid Measures:
    • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
    • Skin contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
    • Eye contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help.
    • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention due to aspiration risk.
    • High-pressure injury: Requires immediate surgical intervention.
  • Firefighting Measures:
    • Suitable extinguishing media: Foam, dry chemical, or CO₂.
    • Do not use: Water jets as they may spread the fire.
    • Hazards: Produces carbon oxides; containers may rupture under heat.
    • Protection: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and chemical protective clothing.
  • Accidental Release Measures:
    • Personal precautions: Avoid contact and inhalation; use personal protective equipment.
    • Environmental precautions: Prevent entry into sewers and waterways; notify authorities if environmental contamination occurs.
    • Clean-up: Absorb with inert material (sand, earth, etc.) and dispose of via licensed contractor.
  • Handling and Storage:
    • Handling: Avoid swallowing, making skin and eye contact, and inhaling mist/vapours. Do not siphon by mouth. Use only in compatible containers.  
    • Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Keep containers sealed and upright.
  • Personal Protection:
    • Gloves: Nitrile gloves recommended with a minimum breakthrough time of 240 minutes.
    • Respiratory protection: Use if ventilation is inadequate.
    • General hygiene: No eating, drinking or smoking in use areas. Wash after use.
  • Disposal:
    • Dispose of contents and containers per local, national, and international regulations.

Again, reference the Bracy 882 SDS for the official breakdown of all hazards. 

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Greenwood Aerospace is your #1 Aviation Lubricants, Sealant, and Adhesive Supplier

Greenwood Aerospace has been supplying aircraft parts, accessories, and assorted support materials for over forty years. We have lasting partnerships with the industry's most respected brands, and our goal is to provide you with the best prices and the best experience when you need to source aircraft fluids and parts. 

We carry Castrol Brayco 882 hydraulic fluid in 55-gallon drums, so your supply point will always be well-stocked for whatever your mission dictates. 

Call our team at (580) 762-2580, email us at contact@governmentprocurement.com, or start an online quote right now!