Hydraulic
systems are in many industries, doing many different jobs. From pressing parts
to lifting heavy loads, hydraulic systems save time, make jobs safer, and allow
faster completion of work. In order for the hydraulic system to continue this,
maintenance of the system is critical. Discover what you need to keep an eye on
and check every time you run the equipment.
1.
Check the Fluid Level
Every
time you use the equipment, check the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir or tank.
The system needs to have the proper amount of fluid in it, or the hydraulics
will not build the full pressure that they need to do the job you need them to
do.
If
the oil is low in the tank, you may start to draw air into the system, causing
the pump to cavitate and the pressure in the system to drop very quickly. If
you add oil to the tank, make sure you use the same oil that is already in the
system to ensure you use the viscosity and grade of oil.
2.
Check the Filter Indicators
Most
hydraulic systems use filters with indicator windows on them to give you a
visual indicator to let you know that you need to change the filter. Check the
filter indicators before you run the equipment because dirty filters can
contaminate the entire system and cause damage to hydraulic cylinders, the
pump, and servos in the system.
3.
Check the Hydraulic Lines and Fittings
Take
a minute to visually inspect the hydraulic lines and fittings in the system.
Look for leaks in the lines, fittings that are leaking, or cracks in the hoses.
If you see any of these, make repairs before operating the machine.
Leaks
in the system may not show up while the system does not run. Start the
equipment and do your inspection while pressure is in the lines and the fluid
in the system is warm. This is the time you will most likely see a leak or drip
in the system.
4.
Check the Tank for Aeration
The
simplest way to check for air in your system is to check the hydraulic oil tank
for air bubbles in the oil. The oil should not be frothy on the surface when
the system runs. Use a flashlight to look in through the fill hole of the oil
tank. If you see air bubbles on the surface of the oil, you may have an air
leak somewhere in the system.
Other
causes of aeration can be bad seals on the cylinders, cold hydraulic oil, or
oil that is too viscous for the system. If you get air in the system, listen to
the hydraulic pump. Often, it will make a noise because it is cavitating and
unable to pressurize the system properly.
5.
Check the System Temperature
Use
an infrared thermometer and check the temperature of the pump, the servos, and
the lines regularly as well. High temperatures in the system can damage the
parts and require premature replacement of the parts. Most hydraulic systems
should run below 180 degrees Fahrenheit when the system is at full temperature.
At Quad Fluid
Dynamics, Inc.
, we specialize in rebuilding hydraulic components and
can help repair pumps, cylinders, and recommend ways to improve your hydraulic
system. Give us a call today to discuss what your needs are and how we can help
get your hydraulic system performing at its best. We look forward to helping
you improve your equipment and workflow, as well as answering your questions
and concerns about your hydraulic system and meeting your hydraulic needs.
