How to avoid hydraulic component failure
4th Quarter 2012
Hydraulic systems & components
The three main reasons why hydraulic components fail are contamination, cavitation and excessive pressure.
As hydraulic components wear, they release tiny metal particles into the hydraulic oil. The abrasive action between piston and cylinder barrel also releases metal particles which act as a grinding compound as they flow through the system. Dirt and water are also common contaminants. Any one of these will contribute to premature failure of a hydraulic component. It is good practice to flush and clean your hydraulic system and install new filter elements before installing a new or rebuilt hydraulic pump. It is also good practice to test the oil periodically for correct viscosity.
Cavitation normally develops on the suction side of the pump, indicating that the available fluid is insufficient to fill the pump’s internal space. Usual causes are low oil level in the reservoir; high oil viscosity; restriction in the suction line; excessive operating speed; and air in the hydraulic oil. A suction line which is too small in diameter can also cause cavitation and severe pump damage.
Hydraulic relief can malfunction and permit excessive hydraulic pressure buildup. Before using a new or rebuilt pump it is advisable to back off the systems relief valve to zero, install a pressure gauge between pump and relief valve, start the pump, move a control handle to a cylinder to bottom out, and reset the relief valve to relieve at maximum pressure, as recommended in the equipment maintenance manual.
When a hydraulic system begins to lose efficiency and the ability to do its work, some operators may screw down the relief valve adjustment, increase pump speed or both. Either of these moves will hasten costly failures throughout the hydraulic system.
For more information contact Ken Beaumont, Commercial Shearing, +27 (0)11 397 4264, [email protected], www.commercialshearing.co.za
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