Industrial hydraulic systems are used in various applications, from construction and agriculture to manufacturing and more. However, like any complex system, hydraulic systems can experience issues that can lead to downtime and lost productivity.

Here are two of the most common hydraulic system issues, along with some tips on how to fix them.

Pump Failure

Hydraulic pumps are the heart of any hydraulic system, so it's no surprise that pump failure is one of the most common issues. These pumps move hydraulic fluid through the system, so the entire system can grind to a halt when they fail.

There are a few reasons pumps fail, but one of the most common is cavitation. Cavitation happens when there is insufficient fluid in the pump, which causes bubbles to form and collapse. This causes the hydraulic pump to vibrate unexpectedly and eventually fail.

Pump failure can also occur when the hydraulic fluid is too dirty or when the wrong type of hydraulic fluid is used. Contaminants in the hydraulic fluid can cause extensive wear and tear on the pump, leading to premature failure.

In addition, using the wrong type of hydraulic fluid can cause compatibility issues. For example, using a hydraulic fluid with a low viscosity can cause overheating issues, which in turn trigger excessive wear on seals and other components. This eventually leads to pump failure.

To avoid pump failure, make sure there is always enough hydraulic fluid in the system. You should also check the hydraulic fluid regularly for contaminants and change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Hydraulic Valve Failure

Hydraulic valves are another common failure point in hydraulic systems. These valves direct the flow of hydraulic fluid and control the pressure, so when they fail, it can cause serious problems.

There are a few reasons behind valve failure, but one of the most common is dirt or debris contamination. When contaminants build up on the valve seat, they can cause the valve to stick or leak. The contaminants prevent the valve from sealing properly, which causes hydraulic fluid to leak.

In addition, hydraulic valves can fail due to wear and tear. Over time, the seals in the hydraulic valves will degrade and eventually fail after long periods of continuous use. When this happens, hydraulic fluid can leak out, causing the system to lose pressure and fail.

To avoid hydraulic valve failure, make sure the hydraulic system is clean and free of debris. You should also check the hydraulic fluid regularly for contaminants and change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

In addition, hydraulic valves should be serviced and replaced on a regular basis to prevent wear and tear. This allows you to keep unexpected issues at bay and maintain a well-running hydraulic system.

For more information, contact a local company, like Miller Hydraulics Service, Inc.