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
Further reading:
Hydraulic pumps deliver high flow, convenience and precision
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Hydraulic systems & components
BMG’s range of high-performance hydraulic electric Enerpac E-pulse pumps is critical to all 700 bar operating hydraulic systems. These portable E-pulse pumps have intelligent auto-cycle functionality and an efficient power-to-weight ratio to ensure dependable operation and high productivity in challenging industrial applications.
Read more...
Precision, control and performance in regulators and control valves
Valve & Automation
Hydraulic systems & components
Cashco has long been a trusted name in industrial control solutions, offering a broad range of regulators and control valves designed to meet the rigorous demands of various industries.There are two key Cashco product lines, its regulators and the Ranger QCT control valve.
Read more...
New-generation drill rig
Hydraulic systems & components
Epiroc is launching the new-generation PowerROC T35, offering both increased fuel efficiency and faster operations.
Read more...
Electrohydraulic shredding
Hydraulic systems & components
Galvanised parts are among the last big challenges for recycling. ImpulsTec is implementing shockwave or electrohydraulic shredding technology, for the separation of complex material compounds in industrial processes.
Read more...
Revealing the value of filtration
Hydrasales
Hydraulic systems & components
The life and reliability of hydraulic systems are greatly affected by the presence of particulate contamination in the lubricant. However, in the face of potential contamination there is hope. The cleaner the fluid, the more reliable the system or process, and the longer the lifespan of its components.
Read more...
Flat face and flat face screw couplings for mining
Hydraulic systems & components
Quick couplings are the critical connectors that keep mining systems running. Within the mining industry, the choice of coupling can significantly impact equipment performance, downtime, and maintenance costs. Stucchi offers flat face and flat face screw couplings that are designed to withstand mining’s unique challenges.
Read more...
Hytec Engineering and Power Team collaborate on water tank project
Hydraulic systems & components
Hytec Engineering and Power Team have collaborated on an innovative water tank project featuring advanced engineering and a specialised synchronised mobile lifting system.
Read more...
Decades of excellence in mobile and industrial hydraulic solutions
Axiom Hydraulics
Hydraulic systems & components
For over four decades, Impro Fluidtek has been at the forefront of hydraulic solutions in mobile and industrial applications. This is borne out by four patents and the sale of over three million hydraulic orbital motors across three continents.
Read more...
Acoustic imaging detector for gas leaks and partial discharge
Artic Driers International
Hydraulic systems & components
The new SUTO iTEC S532 acoustic imaging detector provides an easy and effective way to locate pressurised air and gas leaks and partial discharge (PD) in industrial high-voltage environments.
Read more...
Bending the law of size, power and speed
Hagglunds Drives SA
Hydraulic systems & components
The Hägglunds Quantum hydraulic motor range exceeds previous performance limits in torque, speed and efficiency. Hägglunds Quantum is the new name for the Hägglunds CB range, and these direct drives can be used in heavy-duty and mobile applications.
Read more...
printer friendly version