How to prevent damage to hydraulic systems with these 5 insights
How do you prevent hydraulic systems from malfunctioning or even breaking down prematurely? In fact, how do you extend the lifespan of your hydraulic system? Read on for 5 insights and tips to prevent your hydraulic systems from breaking down prematurely.
Insight 1: Contaminated or incorrect oil is the cause of a problem in 90% of cases
A common error is using contaminated oil or the wrong oil. Did you know that up to 90% of all failures in hydraulic systems are caused by contaminants in the hydraulic oil? Hydraulic oil is essential for any hydraulic system and ensures the transport of energy, lubrication of pump bearings, valves and other components, cooling of the system, protection against corrosion and the removal of dirt. It doesn't take much to jeopardise your company's most important machines. Choose the right oil and the right oil filtration for a healthy hydraulic system!
Find out more about contamination here.
Insight 2: Check the oil regularly
Just like a car engine, dirty oil causes problems. There are many reasons why the quality of oil deteriorates, but sometimes this happens faster than other times. So, it makes little sense to change the oil at fixed times. Always check the current condition and then decide whether or not to change the oil.
Insight 3: Check and replace filters, and use mount indicators
Just as with changing oil, when changing a filter you cannot always predict when that change is needed, or rely on a single measurement at a single moment. One moment a filter does need to be replaced, the next it does not. Mount an indicator on a filter and read it regularly. Replace a filter when the indicator shows that you should. This way you don't replace too soon, but prevent damage effectively.
In mobile and industrial applications, we often see hydraulic circuits that are not equipped with effective fluid filtration. Good filtration in the hydraulic circuit is crucial to ensure a long life and proper operation of the pumps, valves and motors.
Insight 4: Prevent overheating
Too high a temperature is one of the fastest ways to cause irreparable damage to hydraulic systems. Hoses, pumps, bearings and other materials may break down prematurely in the event of overheating. How can you prevent this? Make sure the system is correctly dimensioned to prevent heat generation as much as possible. If this is not possible, install an oil cooler so that the temperature in the system remains balanced.
Insight 5: Comply with the regulations for your installation, such as maximum pressure
What is the best way to operate a hydraulic system safely? Consult the equipment manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure that the maximum pressure is limited and that all components in the system can withstand this maximum pressure.
Ask an expert
If you would like more information about maintaining hydraulic systems or reassurance that you are making the right decisions, you are not alone. Call an account manager or a product specialist at Kramp for reliable advice on everything to do with hydraulics. We are always here to help you.
