Even with good intentions, the most skilled workers will still make mistakes. Thinking that they are merely helping, operators will take it upon themselves to maintain hydraulic systems, often with disastrous results. If you would like to avoid unnecessary hydraulic services in Minnesota and keep your workforce informed, ask them to avoid these common mistakes.
Changing filters
Some people believe filters need to be changed on a schedule, much like their car’s oil or air filter. This is not true. Keeping to a schedule often means they are changed out too early or late. Filters have an extensive capacity for holding dirt and you waste money if you change them out before that point is reached. However, if it is put off until the filter is practically black with debris, that can lead to other issues that compromise the whole system.
The best way to know when to change filters is with a monitoring system that will let you know when pressure drops. This will be more effective than any set schedule.
Skipping the priming step
Startup is a sequence, and workers may skip steps due to impatience or inexperience. However, hydraulics are not self-priming, and the startup process means proper lubrication. Without these steps, you risk serious damage to the system. Reassure workers that time spent in startup is well spent and not considered unproductive.
Misplacing filters
Filter installation and replacement should be left to the professionals. When operators take this into their own hands, filters end up in the wrong locations. While it seems like filtering the pump inlet and drain lines makes the most sense for catching debris, it will actually do more to destroy these components.
Clean oil is more essential to good operation than filtering. Since it is drawn from a reservoir, it is likely not dirty unless that area is not maintained correctly. While filters do have a purpose, they should not be placed in locations that hinder rather than support operation. You want to control the buildup of dirt, but you also want oil and air to remain free flowing, which will not occur if filters are not installed appropriately.
Mishandling the oil
There are two common mistakes related to oil. One is changing the oil. The second is choosing the wrong oil.
Just like filters, oil does not need to be changed on a set schedule. It only needs to be changed when it is necessary. If the additive package no longer works or the supply depletes, those are the only reasons to change the oil. The only way you will know if one of these events occurs is if you order an oil analysis.
If you need to change the oil, choosing the right kind is critical. This is the most important part of a hydraulic system, and the wrong choice means compromised functioning. You require just the right level of viscosity, and that depends on temperature and various characteristics of your environment. Contact a hydraulics repair specialist if you are uncertain of what oil type you need.
M & M Hydraulic Company offers skilled hydraulic services in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin. Whether you require repair or maintenance, we will find the best solution for your needs and your particular equipment.