When you consider the pressure and weight facing the hydraulic components on your heavy work machinery or equipment, it’s easy to understand why failures happen. Generally speaking, hydraulics are used to move, lift or support the things we can’t. They do the heavy, more difficult duties so we don’t have to put ourselves in harm’s way. But when they are not properly maintained or damage is left unfixed, there is no doubt that failures can occur, and in a number of ways—some of which can be just as dangerous to the equipment operators as they would be to bystanders.
It goes without saying that professional hydraulic service in Minnesota is an important part of regular maintenance. With that in mind, here are some of the ways you can protect your system, your investment and your staff from critical hydraulic failures:
- Check for bent rods: Bent rods are a disaster in the making for your hydraulic system. Think of a bent hydraulic rod like an old man’s cane with a crook in it. It may support light amounts of weight, but when leaned on hard, it will fail when it’s needed the most. Hydraulic rods are no different from a faulty cane. All it takes is too much weight at the wrong angle for a critical failure to happen. So, because it is a matter of personnel safety, it’s important to check for bent rods.
- Think finish first: Believe it or not, the finish of your rod matters when it comes to how your hydraulics function. An overly polished cylinder can take a toll on the seal’s proper function. On the other hand, too rough a finish, and you won’t have a successful seal. If you don’t know what you are looking for, make sure you pay careful attention to how your system is operating, and know that too little power can be an indicator of a polish issue. Be sure to have your rod finish inspected and polished as needed.
- Watch for cracks and ballooning: The driving rods in your hydraulic system are not the only things you should keep an eye on. The cylinders can weaken and fail over time. Cracks can mean leaks and structural failure, and ballooning can lead to sudden and abrupt failures when high pressure is introduced to the cylinder. When servicing any hydraulic system, be sure to check the exterior for signs of trouble. For example, you may notice small ripples or bulges on the outside of the cylinder.
- Only use purpose-built hydraulics: One of the dangers when deploying hydraulics occurs if the equipment is are not rated for the work being performed. For example, if you are using hydraulics to lift substantial weight, buy a system rated for that type of work. Skimping on capability because of cost will not only prove frustrating, but dangerous as well.
If your equipment is in need of repair, a rebuild or a little TLC, then don’t hesitate to call on the skilled team at M & M Hydraulic Company. Our superior hydraulic service in Minnesota is also available to customers in North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin. Contact us today!