The cylinders on your equipment, vehicle or machinery may not be the most expensive components, but once they no longer function or if they are not working efficiently, there will be a drop in production.
One simple solution is to take the time to maintain the hydraulic cylinders in use. Most of the equipment and vehicles will be designed with easy access to the cylinders and the hoses, but it may be more difficult to get to the pump. However, by maintaining the basics, you can extend the life of all parts of the hydraulic system, decreasing the risk of unplanned downtime.
Check Fluid
One of the biggest sources of wear and problems with any hydraulic cylinders is problems with the fluid. This often includes using the wrong hydraulic fluid for the working conditions. Different additives and combinations of components in the fluid can be used for various working environments, make sure the correct one is in use.
Be sure to check filters in the system and replace as needed. Also, check the fluid if there are any signs of problems with gaskets and seals. Moisture and debris in the fluid can cause significant damage.
Cylinder Rod and Tube Inspection
Examining the rod is important to detect any sign of pitting, roughness or signs of wear. Fluid breaching the seals can cause the pitting and corrosion on the surface. In some cases, the rod may appear to be worn on one side. This is often a misalignment of the rod and the cylinder, which will eventually lead to the rod bending and causing the cylinder tube to bulge.
Catching this early will eliminate the need to fully hydraulic cylinders. Instead, they can be repaired with new parts and components, shortening downtime as well as the cost.
