Increasing the Lifespan of a Hydraulic System

26 July, 2010- For any hydraulic system to have an increased functioning life, a lot of care and maintenance need to be taken. While working with hydraulic systems, it is very essential to understand the working of the various parts and tools used in the machines. Careless usage of a hydraulic machine can lead to reduction in its life to a great extent.

Cause for a hydraulic machine's shorter life span

The most common and also important cause for the deterioration of a hydraulic machine is the contamination of hydraulic fluid, which is the main source of force to the system. If regular observation is not done on to check the contamination of the fluid, if the hydraulic fluid is not replaced at the right time, there is bound to be poor performance of the system over a period of time. Most often the contaminants and other unwanted substance enter the system in form of dust with metal or rubber. The entrapped water and air too contaminate the hydraulic fluid. In order to maintain clean and clear hydraulic fluid, it is very essential to inspect the fluid samples on a regular basis. Hydraulic Fluid contamination is also referred as "additive deterioration" as additives are the basic source which provide the oil with certain distinct characteristics. Since these additives are more vulnerable to physical and chemical changes, their deterioration can result into the breakdown of the fluid. One of the basic cause of fluid deterioration is when the temperature is very high. That is why it is advised to keep the fluid operating temperatures well below 140 degree Fahrenheit or 60 degree Celsius. Now-a-days most of the hydraulic units comprise heat changers and temperature controls.

Check out our article The Importance of Hydraulic Fluid

How to increase the life span of a hydraulic system?

The life of a hydraulic machine can be maximized to the extreme level by keeping a regular check over the clarity of hydraulic fluid. The two major things which need to be looked after are the chemical composition of fluid and fluid contaminants.

The best method to inspect fluid is take a sample first and then analyze it. This gives an idea as to whether the fluids or filters needs to be replaced or not. You can also determine the exact viscosity of the fluid. The contaminants in it like water or other foreign particles can also be detected. Besides, it can also prove helpful in calculating the chemical composition of the fluid. This will help you judge whether it can still be used further or not.

A thoughtful evaluation of contaminants and its source within the hydraulic system is very important to avoid the possible dangers and elongate the working life of a hydraulic system to the utmost.