Category Archive: Blog

Working as a Hydraulic Technician

The role of a hydraulic repair technician or fluid power technician has seen significant growth in recent years. As modern machinery relies increasingly on complex hydraulic systems for precision movement and operation, hydraulic technician jobs have risen accordingly.

Hydraulic technicians work across various industries where hydraulics are vital, including construction equipment, agriculture, material handling, mining, transportation, and manufacturing. Whether repairing hydraulic cylinders or rebuilding a pressure-compensated pump, hydraulic technicians must have the mechanical aptitude, analytical problem-solving skills, and working knowledge of fluid power principles to keep hydraulically powered machinery running smoothly and productively.

If you’re interested in this career path, let’s dive into the work performed by hydraulic technicians and explore the critical educational requirements and expected hydraulic technician salary for those interested in entering this rapidly expanding field.

The Responsibilities of a Hydraulic Repair Technician

A hydraulic technician’s primary role is maintaining and repairing equipment or machines that rely on pressurized fluid to carry power in different places. Most fluid power technician jobs include fabricating, repairing, installing, and commissioning hydraulic and mechanical systems.

Fluid power jobs entail the following responsibilities:

  • Understand blueprints while doing repairs
  • Perform preventative maintenance for hydraulic systems
  • Draw reviews and suggestions for part inspection and testing
  • Utilize hydraulic-related technology to diagnose and repair hydraulic equipment
  • Complete required documentation of testing and repairs
  • Provide cost estimates based on drawings, codes, and procedures

What Educational Training is Required for Hydraulic Technician Jobs?

Many fluid power technician jobs require at least training in a vocational school or an associate’s degree program in hydraulics or hydraulic engineering. The training or degree gives you basic knowledge and skills, which are highly recommended before applying for hydraulic technician jobs. Some employers will provide on-the-job training to familiarize you with the working environment.

Some skills you’ll be expected to have as a hydraulic repair technician:

  • Know how to use CAD software
  • Basic mechanical engineering knowledge
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints
  • Supervise construction or manufacturing projects
  • Welding, metal fabrication, and electrical assembly

Expected Salary of Hydraulic Technicians in Fluid Power Jobs

According to statistics, the average hydraulic technician salary in the United States is $43,154. The range may be between $31,000 and $59,000 yearly, with an hourly rate of around $20.75 per hour. Of course, the location, your experience, and your educational background will affect your pay.

Another factor that can impact your salary is the industry you work in. For example, hydraulic technicians in the aerospace or defense industries tend to have a higher salary than those in agriculture or construction. Additionally, experience and certifications can lead to better pay and job opportunities since they demonstrate higher expertise and skills.

Kickstart Your Career as a Hydraulic Technician Today

If you’re interested in mechanics, technology, and problem-solving, pursuing a career as a hydraulic repair technician may be the right path. With the increasing use of hydraulics in diverse industries, there’s a high demand for skilled technicians to keep these systems running seamlessly.

Who knows? You might have the chance to work with respected and reputable companies, such as M&M Hydraulic Company. Do you want to know more? Contact us today, and we’ll help you jumpstart your career as a hydraulic repair technician! What are you waiting for? Apply now!

Fan Shaft Repair

When it comes to keeping massive commercial buildings comfortable, your HVAC contractor relies on various fan systems. These pieces of ventilation equipment help circulate air throughout the building and keep temperatures where people expect them in the summer months. When these industrial fans break down, the repair isn’t as simple as hitting a restart button — that’s where M&M Hydraulic Co can help.

Over our 40-year history, we’ve honed our craft at repairing and maintaining fan shafts for industrial and commercial fans with fast turnaround times of 2 to 3 days so businesses can continue providing comfort to HVAC Contractors while avoiding any disruption or downtime they’d otherwise experience during repairs.

Fan Shaft Repair

What is a Fan Shaft and How Does it Work

A fan shaft is a component of machinery used to transfer rotational power from one end to another. It consists of two parts: the drive section, which transfers power from the motor, and the driven section, which transmits it to the fan blade or other device that needs movement.

The system works by transferring energy from the motor to the driven section via a series of belts and pulleys on the shaft. This sets up a continuous cycle where one side turns while the other remains stationary. This also ensures that as long as power is available, either end can be used for motion.

Common Causes of Fan Shaft Damage

Fan shafts are a critical component of many fans. Unfortunately, they are also prone to damage for the following reasons:

  • Bearing Failure occurs when the bearing locks up or slips this causes the inner race to press on to the shaft. When the inner race slips on the shaft this can cause wear and damage.
  • Misalignment can occur when the fan blades or impellers aren’t properly aligned with the fan shaft causing excessive stress.
  • Excessive vibration tends to be caused by an imbalance in the system components, resulting in unnecessary wear and tear on the parts.
  • Improper lubrication and overloading can lead to overheating and eventual failure due to fatigue caused by too much strain on the metal components.

Fortunately, all these common causes of fan shaft damage can be avoided with proper maintenance and repair. Professional commercial fan shaft repair services at M&M Hydraulic Co can help restore the fan shaft to its original performance levels, ensuring it remains in proper working condition and extending its lifespan.

Commercial and industrial fan shaft repair services often use specialized tools and experienced technicians to identify the root cause of the failure and make the necessary repairs.

Industrial and commercial fan shaft repair at M&M Hydraulic Co.

If you’re looking for a reliable company that focuses on fast turnaround and can help you get your fan back up and running efficiently, M&M Hydraulic Co is your most trusted partner. Contact us today for a hassle-free industrial and commercial fan repair service.

How to Bleed a Hydraulic Line in Minnesota

It is critical to keep a hydraulic system in good working order. Without adequate maintenance, you risk having an unexpected breakdown and paying for pricey repairs. Knowing how to bleed hydraulic lines safely is one component of keeping your system working at peak performance. Here are the procedures required to complete this process as quickly as possible!

What is a hydraulic line?

Hydraulic lines operate similarly to electric circuits, but in which water or another fluid replaces electric currents, as in hydraulic controls. A hydraulic line is a tube that carries pressurized fluid to power machinery. The fluid can be oil, water, or air. Hydraulic lines are often made from metal tubing but can also be made from plastic or other materials. They are typically installed in a straight line but can also be looped or coiled for special applications. Hydraulic systems are used in various machines, including cars, construction equipment, and aircraft.

Why do you need to bleed hydraulic lines?

Keeping your hydraulic lines running smoothly and malfunction-free should be a top priority for any company using them in Minnesota. But what exactly does it mean to “bleed” these systems, and why is it so important? Let’s explore why bleeding hydraulic lines is a must.

Taking out the air from the system

One of the primary reasons you need to bleed hydraulic lines is to remove air from the system. Air entering the system can cause various problems, such as reduced efficiency and increased wear on components. Bleeding the lines helps to remove air from the system and allows the system to operate more efficiently.

Cleaning the system of contaminants

The bleed process is also valuable for removing contaminants from hydraulic systems. If contaminants enter the system, such as water or dirt, the system can be reduced in efficiency, and wear on components may increase. By bleeding the lines, contaminants are removed from the system, and it runs more efficiently.

Keeping fluid levels at the proper level

Fluid levels must also be maintained in the hydraulic system by bleeding hydraulic lines. If the fluid level in the system gets too low, it can cause various problems, such as reduced efficiency and increased wear on components. Bleeding the lines helps to maintain proper fluid levels in the system and allows the system to operate more efficiently.

Checking for leaks

Checking for leaks in the hydraulic system is another reason hydraulic lines need to be bled. Leaks can cause various problems, such as reduced efficiency and increased wear on components. Bleeding the lines helps check for leaks in the system and allows you to repair any leaks.

How do you bleed hydraulic lines?

Doing your hydraulic maintenance can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Performing regular preventative care on your hydraulic lines is an integral part of keeping your machinery running properly. One particular task you may run into is bleeding the system.

To make sure things go smoothly, understanding the basics of how to bleed a hydraulic line becomes essential to ensure safe, effective operations going forward:

1. Check the manufacturer’s instructions

Before you start bleeding hydraulic lines, it is essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions. This is because different manufacturers have different methods for bleeding their hydraulic lines. Some manufacturers may require special tools or equipment that you may not have.

2. Find the bleeder screws

After reviewing the manufacturer’s instructions, locate the bleeder screws. Bleeder screws, located at the end of the hydraulic line, remove air from the line.

3. Open the bleeder screws

The bleeder screws need to be opened once you have located them. To do this, use a wrench to turn the screw counterclockwise until it is loose. Do not remove the screw completely, as this will allow all the fluid to escape from the line.

4. Close the bleeder screw

Once all the air bubbles have been forced out of the line, close the bleeder screw. Ensure the screw is tight so no more air can enter the line.

5. Bleed the lines

Once the bleeder screws are open, you can start bleeding the lines. To do this, have someone pump the brakes while you hold a cloth or rag over the end of the bleeder screw to catch any fluid that escapes. Pump the brakes until all the air bled from the lines and only fluid comes out of the bleeders.

6. Check for leaks

After bleeding the hydraulic line, it’s essential to check for leaks. This can be done by running your finger along the length of the hose. If you feel any wetness or see any dripping, then there is a leak present, and it will need to be fixed before using the system again.

We’re the only ones who know how to do it right

With our easy-to-follow guide, bleeding a hydraulic line is simple. We have walked you through each step, so your system is up and running in no time. Don’t struggle with hydraulic line bleeding any longer! M & M Hydraulic Co is here to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about our services!