What not to do with hydraulic equipment: some cardinal sins
1 August 2015
Hydraulic systems & components
This is part of a list compiled and edited by Brendan Casey from hundreds of submissions sent to Inside Hydraulics e-zine. Some are directed at operators, some are for designers, but most are for everyone involved in keeping hydraulic equipment running.
1. Applying silicone sealant to tank lids or O-rings.
2. Installing new O-rings inside dirty, damaged or corroded O-ring grooves.
3. Applying teflon tape to flare or compression joints.
4. Placing any part of your body in the path of an hydraulic actuator.
5. Failing to verify equipment fluid requirements or knowingly using an incorrect fluid.
6. Practicing diagnostics by consensus.
7. Using compressed air to disassemble hydraulic components – especially cylinders.
8. Using an air hose to blow dirt off of your skin.
9. Failing to properly document past problems and their solutions, along with machine repair history.
10. Using split washers on flange bolts.
11. Adjusting a relief valve without a gauge.
12. Not having a regular oil analysis program in place.
About the author: Brendan Casey has more than 20 years experience in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of mobile and industrial hydraulic equipment. For more information on reducing the operating cost and increasing the up-time of your hydraulic equipment, visit his web site: http://www.hydraulicsupermarket.com
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