Manufacturing Methods and Processes

Hydraulic systems help generate movement in machines using pressurized hydraulic fluid. Many industrial applications use hydraulics for their operations because of the equipment's efficiency, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness. Examples of hydraulics equipment include excavators, bulldozers, tower cranes, telehandlers, loaders, etc. However, hydraulics are prone to damage like other industrial equipment, thus requiring regular maintenance and repair services. Below are some common signs of hydraulics problems and how professional repair can help solve them. 

1. Loud noises

If you hear strange and loud noises from your hydraulic system, that is a sign of a problem. That could be due to aeration or cavitation. Aeration happens when air enters the hydraulic fluid contaminating it in the process. Loud and abnormal noises occur when the air compresses and decompresses as the fluid runs through the hydraulic system. Aeration causes accelerated usage of hydraulic fluids resulting in friction, overheating, and burning of seals.

Cavitation occurs when the hydraulic system supplies less fluid than the hydraulic circuits demand, creating vapor cavities that implode, thus making an abnormal noise. Cavitation is dangerous to your hydraulic systems as it may cause mechanical failure in extreme situations. If you hear strange noises in your hydraulic system, contact a professional to check the condition of clamp fittings, shaft seals, pumps, and isolation valves.

2. Reduced operation speed

Hydraulics operate at an optimal speed to ensure efficiency and productivity. Therefore, a speed reduction is a sign of problems with the hydraulic system. Several reasons make your hydraulics operate slowly, i.e., wrong volume control, internal leakage, contamination of fluids, issues with the power unit, degradation of the suction horse, etc. If your hydraulics is suddenly running slow, call a repair company to establish the cause of the problem. They may conduct oil flow tests with a flow meter and also check if the problem results from the failure of the other hydraulic system parts.

3. Overheating of hydraulic pumps 

It is usual for hydraulic pumps to generate heat while in operation. However, if they're producing more than the expected heat, it is a sign of a problem with the hydraulic system. An overheating pump is a sign of an increase in fluid temperature, which shouldn't be beyond 82 degrees Celsius. Common causes of overheating in hydraulic fluids include aeration, contamination, and low oil reserve. Overheating also occurs when pump seals loosen, resulting in fluid leakages. A hydraulic system repair expert can help tighten and replace seals, repair the heat exchanger and replace the contaminated fluid. 

Conclusion

Problems with your hydraulics can result in low productivity, breakdown in your operations, and even accidents. Conduct regular professional repair and maintenance services to ensure your hydraulics operate efficiently and avoid long-term damages. 

For more information on hydraulics repair, contact a company like Miller Hydraulics Service, Inc.