Cavitation: The Root Cause of Hydraulic Valve Failure

02 April, 2010- Hydraulic valve failure by cavitation is a common problem with hydraulic machines hence, it is important to understand the reason of it and the requisite precautions needed to avoid the same.

Cavitation basically occurs in a situation where the hydraulic fluid supplied to a particular hydraulic circuit falls short of the amount it actually requires. This shortfall consequently leads the absolute pressure of that particular circuit to fall below the vapor pressure of the hydraulic fluid making the vapor bubbles within the fluid implode when compressed. The ultimate side-effect of cavitation is metal erosion. The degradation of metal not only contaminates the hydraulic fluid, but also damages the hydraulic components. At times, cavitation can even lead to mechanical failure of pumps and motors. Its the hydraulic pump which most often falls victim of cavitation but nevertheless, Cavitation does pose a serious threat to the complete hydraulic circuit.

Generally, hydraulic valves end to get so eroded that they just do not stand serviceable at all. Chronic cavitation render valves hollow in terms of strength and sturdiness.

Situations like these call for extra attention towards the timely check of operation and adjustment of circuit protection devices on regular intervals. The anti-cavitation and load control valves should be looked after specifically. Faulty anti-cavitation valves should be identified and replaced at the primary age of erosion itself. It would indeed prove fruitful in avoiding the expenses incurred on the hydraulic valve's replacement.