This moisture decreases the fluid's stability and therefore reduces its service life. Sensitive hydraulic components are very susceptible to these contaminants. Expensive valves, seals, and other system parts require clean and dry fluid to function at peak efficiency and to prevent excessive maintenance costs. When the fluid level in the reservoir changes, air is drawn in through openings under the breather's top cap. The silica gel chamber adsorbs and traps moisture.
Air entering the system is clean and dry.