Hydraulic systems power a wide range of machinery. Keeping your hydraulic equipment functioning properly is essential. Repairs are often needed to address performance issues within a hydraulic system.
The repair process provides an opportunity for you to inspect your hydraulic cylinder for signs of damage so that you can be proactive in preventing future breakdowns from sidelining your hydraulic equipment.
1. Rod Damage
All hydraulic cylinders have a rod that helps to create compression within the cylinder itself. The rod moves through the cylinder and compresses hydraulic fluid to create power. In order for a hydraulic system to function efficiently, the rod must be intact.
The repair process usually involves the disassembly of the hydraulic cylinder. This gives you the opportunity to visually inspect the rod, which is typically enclosed within the hydraulic cylinder.
If you see any evidence of scratching or displacement, you should replace the rod with a new one to maximize performance once the repair process is complete.
2. Rod Seal Damage
Another component that plays a major role in the function of a hydraulic system is the rod seal. The fluid contained within a hydraulic cylinder must be compressed fully for the system to produce adequate power.
A damaged rod seal allows hydraulic fluid to leak out slowly over time. As the fluid level drops, the compression rate drops. While you are disassembling your hydraulic cylinder in preparation for repairs, check to ensure that the rod seal isn't warped or damaged in any way.
You can replace a damaged rod seal before putting your hydraulic cylinder back together to avoid any compression loss in the future.
3. Surface Scratches
The interior surface of a hydraulic cylinder should be smooth and free of any abrasions. Rod damage or contaminated hydraulic fluid can lead to scratching of the interior cylinder surface.
These scratches make it difficult for seals to create an effective barrier against hydraulic fluid loss. Scratching can also lead to fluid contamination, as small particles from the cylinder slough off and become suspended in the hydraulic fluid.
Since the hydraulic fluid must be emptied and the cylinder disassembled when making repairs, this is the perfect time to have your hydraulic cylinder machined to remove any interior surface scratching that may interfere with the efficiency of your hydraulic system over time.
All hydraulic repairs should be viewed as an opportunity to complete a full visual inspection of your hydraulic systems. Looking for signs of damage while making repairs gives you the ability to better maintain your hydraulic equipment.
For more information about hydraulic cylinder repair, contact a local professional.