When you break down a hydraulic system to its simplest parts, it isn’t too difficult to understand how it works, and nor is it difficult to understand why it’s crucial to maintain hydraulic systems. First, pressure moves a piston within a machine or heavy equipment, which in turn moves the components of a larger system. Depending on the type of equipment, the hydraulics may be the least important or the most important part of the whole operation, but whichever the case may be, they have to be properly maintained.
So, do you want your hydraulic components to function right and run smooth for years to come? Here are some helpful tips for scheduled hydraulic maintenance in Minnesota.
Check and replace oil lubricant often
Lubrication is essential to the proper performance of hydraulic systems. Components—like the ones that travel back and forth in hydraulics—can quickly wear out if lubricant is not replaced on a regular basis. Think of it like the oil in your car or truck. While the engine may run for quite a while without clean oil, it will eventually wear your engine out. And just like in your vehicle’s engine, a lack of clean oil can cause moving parts to got hot, warp and break, causing serious and widespread system failures.
Rotate you cylinders
If your system cannot be shut down for regular maintenance, have alternate cylinders available to rotate in their place. For example, having two or three cylinders will allow you to quickly shut down operations, switch the components and fire your systems back up. This will allow for each component to receive the care it needs, when it needs it. This can also be very helpful in an emergency. If you experience an unexpected failure, you’ll be able to get back online fast with a cylinder or two ready as backup.
Inspect, inspect, inspect!
As we mentioned earlier when we discussed the importance of lubrication, moving parts will wear out. This means they should be regularly inspected to ensure they are functioning properly. In systems like hydraulic lifts, or when they play weight-supporting roles, inspections can mean the difference between a safe system and a deadly one. Worn out seals, unevenly worn rods and broken hoses can all spell disaster if allowed to reach critical failure stages.
Check peripheral components
When it comes to hydraulics, simple, non-moving parts matter almost as much as the bits doing the heavy lifting. Always be sure to check things like the pins. While they aren’t the muscle of the operation, a failure can shut you down completely.
Also, depending on the type of hydraulic components you rely on, you may experience jerky operations. If your cylinders are of the high-precision variety, this can be a sign it’s time for service. It’s also good to note that regularly greasing the shaft will help to keep your system operating like it should.
For friendly and reliable hydraulic maintenance in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin, make sure your first call is to the professionals at M & M Hydraulic Company. Feel free to contact us with questions or to schedule an appointment anytime!