Effective Hydraulic Services for Cylinders

Large and small equipment alike are very dependent on well-functioning and stable hydraulic cylinders. When it is time for them to receive repair, you need to seek out good hydraulic services in Minnesota, which is more than manageable. To give you an idea of how these essential repairs work, here are the parts of a hydraulic cylinder that require attention:

• Piston and rod seals: Just as with most hydraulic equipment, seals can mean the difference between optimal operation and a dead piece of machinery. Piston seals are inspected for erosion or to see if they have disintegrated entirely. This can lead to the barrel bulging, and if it has reached that part, it is normally replaced entirely. Rod seals are also checked for distortion. If this ends up being the case, they can be replaced for a short-term fix. However, the problem will arise again if the cause is not discovered and dealt with soon.
• Rods: Rods can crack and become crooked. A test that involves putting the rod on rollers will check its straightness, and dye penetrant detects any irregularities in the surface. Either condition can be a sign of imminent failure, so rod replacement can also be part of cylinder repair. Minor irregularities can often be smoothed out with oiling.
• Cylinder head: Light-duty cylinders also contain heads where the rod rests. If there are any issues with the rod, heads are checked too to see if there is a cause-and-effect situation. Sometimes, the head is damaged or there are seal breakages that are leading to further problems. This part can also be replaced or repaired to help assure the future integrity of the cylinder.
• Barrel: In addition to any repair or inspection related to the pistons, the barrel also gets an inspection to check for pitting or scoring. The more damage that is discovered, the lower the remaining service life of the piston. Damage that is less substantial can normally be repaired while still maintaining the normal life expectancy and use of the piston. Otherwise, there is likely to be a replacement of the barrel or the entire piston.
• Piston: Some wear and tear is considered normal for pistons. After all, this is the part that moves the most. Deep scoring suggests compromised functioning, if not now, at least in the near future. The piston is often tested to see how it can withstand loads, and if there is any doubt, parts are replaced. During this time, the piston wear bands are also replaced, as that is usually a routine repair.
• Cleaning and reassembly: Since hydraulic cylinders are completely taken apart, this is a good time to give them a thorough cleaning. Once worn seals are removed, each part is scrubbed with a petroleum-based solution and blow-dried with compressed air. After cleaning, replacement seals are installed and the cylinder is coated in hydraulic fluid.

M & M Hydraulic Company offers hydraulic services in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Call us today if you require assistance with your equipment.