A properly maintained pneumatic system can last for decades before parts start to break down and require replacement. Even after a full life of service, many pneumatic parts will still be fully operational (albeit to a lower degree of efficiency)! It’s truly amazing how little invasive work needs to be done to keep pneumatic systems going.
So what finally brings them down, aside from mismanagement and poor maintenance? The answer may vary, but some of the more common causes include:
- Dirt and other contaminants within the system. Did you know a dirt particle as small as 60 microns in size can compromise a pneumatic hose? Often, it’s the smallest detractors that are responsible for the biggest damages—especially when they’ve been allowed to accumulate within the system. When a closed pneumatic circuit is broken, it’s only a matter of time before things start to go south.
- Low lubrication oil is another chief component of pneumatic system failure and generally, it’s the number one catalyst for pneumatic repair in Minnesota. Insufficient lubrication means friction, and friction in any mechanical setting means a major problem is just over the horizon.
- Damage to the glands or valves within a pneumatic system can expedite damage and cause premature breakdowns as well. Usually one of the above issues is an instigator of this problem, however a number of explanations can be present depending on the composition of your system.
After reviewing the above causes of pneumatic system breakdowns, the question becomes: how do you stave off these things and prevent them from occurring?
The answer is simple: be cognizant of your system’s Filter/Regulator/Lubricator (FRL). This single component is your first line of defense against premature pneumatic repair in Minnesota and can be the source of seamless operation by your system for years.
What is the FRL and what does it do?
The FRL is a simple component to a pneumatic system that has three chief duties:
- To filter any particulates or debris out of your system, preventing wear and tear from the inside.
- To regulate the amount of lubricant present within your system, preventing friction fro occurring.
- To properly lubricate your pneumatic system and, more importantly, sense when lubricant is low or contaminated.
A working FRL component will accomplish all of the above tasks seamlessly, which means the burden of manually doing these things is alleviated from your routine maintenance tasks. Instead of checking three things consistently, you can rely on your FRL unit to do it for you and alert you to a problem immediately.
A working FRL saves you money
At this point it goes without saying that a working FRL unit is the number one way you can prevent issues from arising within your pneumatic system. More importantly, however, this means money in your pocket as you avoid unnecessary repair costs and costly breakdowns.
If you’re operating a pneumatic system in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa or Wisconsin, consult your system’s FRL and, if it requires service, give the professionals at M & M Hydraulic Company a call immediately to regain your peace of mind!