Hydraulic cylinders are important parts of many heavy-duty machines and equipment, including cranes, excavators, and bulldozers. These hydraulic cylinders are designed to convert hydraulic energy to mechanical energy, allowing these mighty machines to perform heavy-duty tasks easily.
However, like any other mechanical component, hydraulic cylinders are susceptible to wear and tear, and it is important to recognize the signs that indicate when they need repair and overhaul.
This post will look at five common signs that your hydraulic cylinder needs repair and overhaul.
1. Hydraulic ram leak
One of the most common signs that your hydraulic cylinder needs looking at is a hydraulic ram leak. A hydraulic ram leak happens when the hydraulic fluid inside the cylinder leaks out. This can be caused by a damaged or worn seal or a cracked cylinder wall. A hydraulic ram leak is easy to spot as it usually leaves a visible puddle of fluid around the base of the cylinder.
If you notice a hydraulic ram leak, it is important to take immediate action. If you keep on using a cylinder with a hydraulic ram leak, you will end up cursing further damage, which will result in expensive repairs. You should contact a specialist in hydraulic repair in Sydney to have it repaired and sorted out as soon as possible after spotting signs of a hydraulic cylinder leaking.
2. Reduced performance
Another common sign that your hydraulic cylinder needs repair and overhaul is a reduction in performance. If you notice that your machine is not performing as well as it should, it could be a sign that the hydraulic cylinder is not working correctly. This could be due to a variety of issues, including worn-out or damaged components, contamination of hydraulic acid, or a problem with the hydraulic pump.
Reduced performance can greatly impact how efficiently and productively your machine works, so it is important to have our hydraulic cylinder inspected as soon as possible.
3. Strange noises
Unusual noises from your machine can also indicate that your hydraulic cylinder needs repairing or overhauling. This could include grinding, knocking, or even screeching noises. These noises indicate that there is an issue with the hydraulic cylinder or another component of the machine.
Ignoring strange noises can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs. If you notice any unusual noises, it is important to have your machine inspected by a hydraulic repair specialist.
4. Juddering
If you have noticed that your hydraulic cylinder isn’t moving quite as smoothly as it used to be, it could be a sign that something is not right. Juddering is when the cylinder’s movements become jerky and uneven as it extends. This problem can be caused by a few factors, such as worn-out seals, poor lubrication, physical damage from increased friction, or even piston bending. If you notice jerking and uneven movements, stop using it and get it looked at before it causes more damage. Regular inspection and maintenance, such as checking the seals, ensuring proper lubrication, and monitoring for signs of physical damage can prevent this from happening
5. Overheating
Overheating is another key sign that your hydraulic cylinder needs attention. It could be due to the contamination of hydraulic fluids, damaged or worn-out components, or a problem with the hydraulic pump. Overheating can cause significant damage to your machine’s hydraulic system and other parts. Not only that, but overheating can also pose a safety risk to operators and other personnel.
The high temperatures generated by an overheating hydraulic system can cause burns, fires, and even explosions. If you notice your machine is overheating, get it checked out by a hydraulic repair specialist right away. They can also recommend upgrades to improve the system’s efficiency, such as upgrading the hydraulic fluid to a higher-quality option that better handles high temperatures.
Keep an eye out for these five common warning signs from your hydraulic cylinders, as they can indicate that something is not quite right. Being aware of these clues will help you to stay on top of your cylinder maintenance and repairs, potentially saving you both time and money.
When it comes to taking care of your hydraulic cylinder needs, you can put your trust in Fluid Kraft. With our expertise and knowledge, we can make sure your cylinders are in tip-top condition and performing at their very best.