what causes hydraulic pump failure quotation
Hydraulic pumps are at the core of many essential factory operations. Unfortunately, there are numerous pitfalls to plan for, mitigate, and overcome to keep them running. Keeping up on routine maintenance is important, but the best way factory techs can avail themselves of costly, frustrating breakdowns is to understand the various catalysts for hydraulic pump failure.
The simplest way to identify the cause of pump failure is to thoroughly inspect and dissect the aftermath of the problem. In most cases, the cause of failure will be evident by the nature of the catalyst(s). Here are eight of the most common problems, some of their defining features, and how they ultimately come to fruition.
1. Fluid contamination is one of the biggest causes of hydraulic pump damage and involves debris mixing with the liquid. This debris causes friction, leading to extenuated wear on the pump itself. The result is inefficiency, culminating in malfunction.
2. Fluid viscosity issues occur when the hydraulic fluid within a pump breaks down over time. Viscosity that’s too high leads to cavitation (another catalyst for damage). Subsequently, if a tech changes and replaces fluid with a viscosity that’s too low, heat and friction become concerns.
3. Over-pressurization occurs because of excessive load on the pump itself, resulting in red-line operation that’s both unsafe and damaging. Hydraulic pumps operating under high duress for extended periods of time will likely experience component wear and premature failure, usually in spectacular fashion.
4. Excess heat can be a product of poor fluid viscosity or environmental factors. This issue is rarely a singular catalyst for pump breakdown, but it exacerbates other factors or masks other issues, such as fluid contamination.
5. Implosion invariably results in extreme failure for hydraulic pumps and is a major safety hazard. Implosion occurs when air bubbles within a hydraulic pump collapse, causing an overload of pressure to the pump that generates an intense shock.
6. Aeration occurs when hydraulic fluid traps air bubbles. The pump subjects the bubbles to pressure, causing high heat and over-pressurization when the bubbles collapse. Aeration at extreme levels leads to implosion.
7. Pump aeration pertains to air not in the hydraulic fluid, but air introduced through unsealed joints or shafts. This air quickly causes pressure instability affecting crucial parts of the pump. This can quickly lead to breakdowns — generally marked by a whine or other high-pitched sound.
8. Cavitation is a symptom of uncontrolled pump speeds, which fail to allow hydraulic fluid to completely fill the pump. It results in destabilized pressure, heat, and excess wear. Cavitation is often marked by the same type of whine or squeal as pump aeration.
Because the factors causing each of these problems differ in nature, it’s best to fully evaluate a damaged hydraulic pump to determine if more than one issue is responsible.
Maintenance is the best approach for ensuring safe, efficient hydraulic pump function. But routine service is just the start. Identifying common issues plaguing your hydraulic pumps will lead to a better quality of targeted maintenance — for example, if you pinpoint a heat issue related to viscosity, that issue may be resolved by opting for a different fluid weight.
Every piece of information learned about your pumps can translate into better care, leading to longer uptimes, fewer issues, and fundamentally better maintenance.
Having trouble identifying the catalysts for your hydraulic pump’s issues? Let the professionals at Global Electronic Services take a look! Contact us for all your industrial electronic, servo motor, AC and DC motor, hydraulic, and pneumatic needs — and don’t forget to like and follow us on Facebook!
The pump is the most expensive and critical component in any hydraulic system—it works by first creating a vacuum at the pump inlet, which generates atmospheric pressure. Liquid from the reservoir tank is then propelled through the inlet line to the pump, past a hydraulic filter or strainer, and into the hydraulic system. On a macro-level, the mechanical energy of the pump’s gears is transferred through fluid “flow” and used to power the attached hydraulic machinery.
Although hydraulic systems can be used in many everyday objects, they’re usually best suited for products that require high-power density or systems with changing load requirements. This simple yet elegant design offers exceptional consistency and speed compared to other driving mechanisms. Hydraulic systems are widely used across industries because they are reliable, easy to maintain, long-lasting, and safe. But despite their many advantages, hydraulic systems still require some degree of maintenance. The following guide explains what can make a hydraulic pump fail, as well as tips for extending its useful lifespan as much as possible.
Fluid contamination is the leading cause of pump failure and usually happens when particulates circulate through the system via a breather valve or cylinder rod, or as a result of repairs, welding slag, sealant, or refilling. Once contaminants enter the system, they can degrade parts, create buildup, change the fluid’s physical and chemical properties, corrode equipment, and lower the system’s overall efficiency.
Hydraulic pumps are designed to work within a specific pressure range. If pressures exceed the pump’s rating, it will likely overburden the pump, cause damage, and eventually halt operations completely. If the pressure changes are extreme, it could even cause an explosion.
Joints and shafts must be completely sealed for the hydraulic pump to work properly. If air gets trapped inside the system, bubbles can cause pressure and temperature fluctuations, which eventually will cause the pump to break down. Usually the first sign there’s air in the pump is a high-pitched whine.
Cavitation occurs when the pump speed is inconsistent, creating air bubbles that rapidly form and then collapse. When this happens, the pump won’t completely fill with fluid, which destabilizes pressure in the system and produces the same type of high-pitched squeal as pump aeration. A blocked pipe, clogged filter, or poor system design can all cause cavitation.
Hydraulic systems need high-quality cooling and lubrication oil with the right mineral content and viscosity. Purity is particularly important for high-pressure systems that operate with larger loads.
The best way to prevent hydraulic pump failure is to inspect and maintain your hydraulic system. Hydraulic filters and strainers will help you avoid fluid contamination, which in turn will stabilize the temperature and pressure inside the system. Filters remove particulates that are smaller than 50 microns, and strainers work tangentially to remove contaminants larger than 50 microns. Various options are available for both filters and strainers using different ratings, mesh sizes, and materials.
After they’re installed, filters and strainers need to be routinely checked and cleaned. Operators should familiarize themselves with their hydraulic system to identify any aberrant conditions as soon as possible, if problems should arise. If you maintain your hydraulic system, it will work more efficiently, necessitate fewer repairs, require less downtime, and last as long as possible.
With over 60 years of experience manufacturing high-quality suction filters, suction strainers, gauges, and diffusers for hydraulic systems, the experts at DOMS Incorporated have the expertise to keep your operation in peak condition. We’ve worked closely with organizations from many industries, including construction, forestry, mining, energy development, industrial manufacturing, aircraft equipment manufacturing, plant processing, and more.
Your hydraulic pump is the heart of your machine, pumping fluid through your hydraulic system. Pump failures mean downtime and expensive repairs, but the sooner you recognize pump problems developing the easier it is to fix. In this Shop Talk blog post, we are going to discuss, we are going to discuss the most common signs and causes of hydraulic pump failure.
If you notice any of these symptoms, keep in mind that it doesn’t necessarily mean that the pump is going out -- but it means something in your hydraulic system is about to! Check out this video below for an example of what can happen to a Bobcat pump.
Sadly, no pump will last forever because they suffer wear and tear from regular use. Bearings and seals will eventually need to be replaced, and if those replacements are put off then your pump may suffer even worse damage. If you suspect your hydraulic pump needs a tune up, then don’t hesitate to see after it -- it will extend the life of your pump and increase your machine’s overall productivity.
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The hydraulic pumps on construction equipment are critical components of the machines and even though they are often designed to work under vigorous and intense conditions, no pump will last forever. Discovering a problematic pump can be complicated as the effects might seem to originate in other connected parts, and, if failures are gradual, the cascading effects of a pump failure can spread throughout a machine.
To help in your diagnosis — and with a small dash of preventive maintenance — we’ve put together this basic, short list of common pump problems and their causes.
Not every hydraulic pump on a machine is simple to inspect, but this Volvo main hydraulic pump on a EC220B-LC excavator sits behind a quick access door so an operator can check it often.
A failing hydraulic pump can be a long and subtle process, a sudden and catastrophic calamity, and all shades in-between, but often a perceptive operator will notice the signs of a pump failure in advance. It might take a few minutes of stopping and inspecting, but knowing what to watch for and taking the time to inspect your hydraulic pumps can often pay off in the long run and lead to fast and simple fixes, instead of prolonged and labor-intensive downtimes.
A hydraulic pump is often secured behind a door or guard or integrated deeply into the body of a machine, but taking the time to inspect the pump for the presence of oil (or oil and dirt clumping) can lead to the early discovery of problems. If the issue is simply a loose connection, a quick tightening can often stop a small issue from growing.
Since a hydraulic pump has both seals to prevent fluid from exiting the pump and also fluid from prematurely entering from one chamber to the next, failing seals can be both internal and external. Spotting an exterior leak is, of course, simpler, but being aware of where seals exist inside the pump can also help you diagnose a failing internal seal.
The most frequently noticed indication of a failing pump is often the start of a new sound coming from the hydraulic pump. An experienced operator will often immediately know and recognize a pump that is indicating issues through sounds, but for many it can be harder to pinpoint.
A problem with a pump can cause it to simply become louder in its operations, develop a whining sound, or even create a knocking sound. The sounds can indicate a number of problems, but often the cause is either cavitation or aeration in the pump.
Over long spans of work and under intense conditions, a hydraulic pump will often heat up, but excessive heating is often a sign of internal issues in the hydraulic pump. Checking a hydraulic pump for excess heat should always be done with safety in mind and with a secure machine and proper protective equipment. Periodically ensuring a hydraulic pump isn’t overheating allows an operator to discover if the pump is under undue strain and on a path to failure.
Overheating in a hydraulic pump can also cause fluid to thin, cause internal components to more rapidly degrade, and introduce dangerous working conditions to the machine. Overheating in a pump is both a sign of current trouble and a cause of other growing problems.
Unexpected and non-fluid movement of parts can be caused by issues with the hydraulic pump, but since the culprit can be a number of other parts in the system, diagnosing pump issues from these movements isn’t always simple. Still, if you do notice non-uniform movements in your machine, taking time to rule out the hydraulic pump is important.
A main hydraulic pump, like this one from a Komatsu PC400LC-6 excavator, comes with a working life and will need to be replaced or rebuilt at some time. This one is fresh from an H&R Recon and Rebuild shop and is headed to a customer.
Knowing some of the common causes of hydraulic pump failures is a proven way of proactively discovering developing issues and correcting them before they become disastrous to the pump and the machine.
The internals of a hydraulic pump are designed to work with fluid that meets exacting specifications. When hydraulic fluid is contaminated it can lead to issues developing in the pump, force the pump to work harder, and cause the pump to work erratically. One common culprit for contamination is water, and it can quickly lead to increased corrosion, changes in viscosity that lead to inefficiencies, and the inability to properly regulate heat in the pump.
Other debris, either introduced from outside or from the degradation of internal elements, can also lead to issues in the pump and signal failing seals or other parts.
A hydraulic pump is often containing a high level of pressure and as this pressure exerts force on seals in the pump, the seals can begin to leak or fail. Even minor leaks in seals can lead to loss of fluid and create issues in the system. Leaks can be both external and internal. For an internal leak, fluid will move from one part of the pump to another in unintended ways and force inefficiencies into the pump as it has to work harder to compensate.
While many hydraulic pumps are built to stand up to tough and continuous working conditions, every hydraulic pump is designed with an upper limit. Every time a hydraulic pump is subjected to overpressuring and overloading beyond what the manufacturer has specified, the pump is more prone to damage.
All hydraulic oil has a defined amount of air dissolved in it, but increases to this amount can lead to inefficiencies in the pump and force the pump to work harder or erratically. An increase in air can also happen inside the pump and create similar problems. Even though the pump and hydraulic system have mechanisms in place to regulate air in the system, if excess air is introduced the system should be returned to a balanced system before prolonged use of the pump.
The hydraulic system on a construction equipment machine is designed to work within defined parameters. Operating a machine with too little oil or too much oil for even the briefest amount of time can cause the pump to overwork, lead to increases in working temperatures, or create conditions for non-uniform movement. The exact type of oil used — matched to the machine and the working environment — can also impact how the hydraulic pump operates.
The operator’s guide of your machine will define the hydraulic oil change schedule and adhering to that schedule can extend the life of your hydraulic pump. When oil is changed, take time to examine the spent oil for signs of debris
Keeping a pump on a hard-working machine looking new every day is nearly impossible, but routinely peeling back dirt, grime, and oil can help catch issues early.
No one wants to take a machine out of work for cleaning, but keeping the machine clean and ensuring pumps are not covered in mud, dirt, or other debris can allow them to be inspected more easily and avoid contamination and overheating.
The hydraulic hoses connected to a hydraulic pump can wear out over time and ensuring they are well-maintained can help you avoid the introduction of debris and even catastrophic issues in the case of sudden failures.
If a hydraulic pump fails on your machine, taking time to ensure you properly diagnose why and how the failure occurred will help you avoid repeating the failure with your replacement pump. Even if the pump failed simply from prolonged use and age, taking time to confirm that can lead to insights about how to extend the life of the next pump.
A hydraulic pump on an excavator, wheel loader, dozer, or articulated truck can be an often ignored component of the machine — until it starts to act up and cause issues. If problems have brought a pump to the forefront of your mind, hopefully, this short guide has helped simplify your pump problem solving.
If you find yourself in need of a replacement hydraulic pump, our Parts Specialists are always here to help. As a supplier of new, used, and rebuilt hydraulic pumps and with our deep inventory of parts, our Parts Specialists can often find the perfect solution to get a customer back up and running quickly. Simplify your search and give them a call.
Don"t see what you are looking for? With access to specialized search tools and our extensive vendor network, our parts specialists are here to search for you and to connect you to your parts, fast and simple.
The look and design of a hydraulic pump is customized to fit the machine and the available space. This main hydraulic pump is freshly reconditioned from a Kobelco SK160LC-VI excavator.
Hydraulic pumps come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. This large Volvo main hydraulic pump requires assistive overhead cranes and forklifts to move around the warehouse.
When a hydraulic system fails, finding the source of the problem can be a challenge. Though hydraulic systems primarily consist of a sump, motor, pump, valves, actuators and hydraulic fluid, any of these parts could be the source of failure. That"s not to mention the additional potential for failure through human error and faulty maintenance practices. If your system fails, you need to know why it fails, how to find the failure and how to keep it running smoothly in the future, all while keeping personnel safe.
It"s often easy to tell when a hydraulic system fails — symptoms can include high temperatures, low pressure readings and slow or erratic operation are glaring problems. But what are the most common causes of hydraulic systems failures? We can trace most hydraulic issues back to a few common causes, listed below.
Air and water contamination are the leading causes of hydraulic failure, accounting for 80 to 90% of hydraulic failures. Faulty pumps, system breaches or temperature issues often cause both types of contamination.
Air contamination is the entrance of air into a hydraulic system and consists of two types — aeration and cavitation. Both can cause severe damage to the hydraulic system over time by wearing down the pump and surrounding components, contaminating hydraulic fluids and even overheating the system. Although we are not pump manufacturers, we know it is essential to be aware of these types of contamination and how to identify their symptoms.
Cavitation:Hydraulic oil consists of about 9% dissolved air, which the pump can pull out and implode, causing pump problems and damage to the pump and to other components in a hydraulic system over time. You can identify this problem if your hydraulic pump is making a whining noise.
Aeration:Aeration occurs when air enters the pump cavity from an outside source. Usually, loose connections or leaks in the system cause this issue. Aeration also creates a sound when the pump is running, which sounds like knocking.
Water contamination is also a common problem in hydraulic systems, often caused by system leaks or condensation due to temperature changes. Water can degrade hydraulic components over time through oxidation and freeze damage. A milky appearance in hydraulic fluid can help you identify water contamination.
Fluid oxidization: Extreme heat can cause hydraulic fluid to oxidize and thicken. This fluid thickening can cause buildups in the system that restrict flow, but can also further reduce the ability of the system to dissipate heat.
Fluid thickening:Low temperatures increase the viscosity of hydraulic oil, making it harder for the oil to reach the pump. Putting systems under load before the oil reaches 70 degrees or more can damage the system through cavitation.
Fluid levels and quality can affect hydraulic system performance. Low fluid levels and inappropriate filtration can result in air contamination, while fluid contamination can cause temperature problems. Leaks can further exacerbate both issues.
Using the correct type of fluid is also essential, as certain hydraulic oils are compatible with specific applications. There are even oil options that offer higher resistance to temperature-related problems. Some oils even offer anti-wear and anti-foam additives to help prevent against wear and air contamination, respectively.
Human error is the base cause of many hydraulic system problems. Some of the most common errors that may result in your hydraulic pump not building pressure include the following.
Faulty installations: Improper installation of any component in a hydraulic system can result in severe errors. For example, the pump shaft may be rotating in the wrong direction, negatively affecting pressure buildup, or pipes may be incorrectly fitted, resulting in leaks.
Incompatible parts: An inexperienced installer may put mismatched components together, resulting in functional failures. For example, a pump may have a motor that runs beyond its maximum drive speed.
Improper maintenance or usage:Using systems outside their operational capabilities or failing to perform regular maintenance are some of the most common causes of hydraulic system damage, but are easy to rectify through updated maintenance policies and training.
The sources of system failures can be tricky to identify, but some hydraulic troubleshooting steps can help narrow down the options. So how do you troubleshoot a hydraulic system? Here are some of the fundamentals.
Check the pump: Take the pump assembly apart and assess all parts to ensure that they are functional and installed correctly. The most common problem areas include the pump shaft, coupling and filter.
Check the fluids:Check the level, color and viscosity of the hydraulic oil to ensure it meets specifications and has not become contaminated. Low hydraulic fluid symptoms include pressure or power loss. When in doubt, drain and replace the fluids.
Check the seals: Look for evidence of any fluid leakage around your hydraulic system"s seals, especially the shaft seal. Leakage can indicate worn-out or blown seals that can cause malfunctions with pumps, motors and control valves.
Check the filters: Ensure filters are clear of plugs and blockages. Common clogged hydraulic filter symptoms include sluggish operation and noisy operation.
Run the system: When you have completed all these essential checks, turn on the system and monitor it for pressure and temperature fluctuations, as well as abnormal sounds. If all seems well, check your pressure sensor for potential failure.
Hydraulic system issues are inevitable at some point. However, simple steps can help you avoid these issues and increase the longevity of your hydraulic system. On top of effective troubleshooting, you can prevent hydraulic system failure by taking the following steps.
Follow specifications: We can trace the most common hydraulic system issues back to fundamental system problems like incompatible or improperly installed parts. For this reason, it"s essential to always double-check specifications to ensure your purchased parts can work together seamlessly.
Consult with professionals: When purchasing new equipment, consult with industry peers and professionals to discover what they recommend. While manufacturers can tell you how a product should work, industry professionals can provide concrete examples of how well the equipment works for their industry.
On top of these steps, look into hydraulic system products that are specifically designed to help prevent failures. One such product is Bear-Loc® by York Precision. This innovative locking actuator is a safe, reliable feature for hydraulic components, automatically locking when sleeve pressure is relieved, preventing movement if a hydraulic system fails. This way, your can protect your personnel from injuries related to hydraulic failures. Even better, York Precision offers in-house design, engineering expertise and machining and manufacturing capabilities to produce a hydraulic locking device that meets your exact specifications.
Regularly review hydraulic system maintenance, always following manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. Also, consider the storage condition, external influences, working pressure and usage frequency of your system to tailor your maintenance schedule and procedures.
Daily tasks:Take care of a few simple daily checks to avoid issues. For example, personnel should check the oil levels, hoses and connections and listen to the pump for abnormal sounds.
Routine tasks:Plan and execute a weekly and monthly maintenance routine, checking for the most common failure sources given your system"s working conditions. These should include components, filters and the condition of the oil.
Be mindful of location:Do not stand at endpoints while working on hydraulic systems. This safety measure can help prevent loss of limb and life, as there is a lot of pressure built up in these areas that can release and result in life-threatening situations.
The best safety measures, however, are to perform excellent maintenance and use high-quality parts. If you"re looking for a quality hydraulic component manufacturer, York Precision Machining & Hydraulics can help.
In any hydraulic system, the hydraulic pump is usually the most expensive component and if it fails the whole system can be rendered inactive. Hydraulic pumps are extremely sensitive to contaminants and have the highest reliability risk. When a hydraulic pump starts to fail, it can force contaminants and debris further down the system and if this is not intercepted by an effective filter, the debris can then cause damage to other components. With this in mind, it is worth knowing the warning signs of common hydraulic problems and the precautions or actions that should be taken to prevent the lost work time and expense resulting from pump failure. As experts in hydraulic pump repairs, we at CJ Plant reveal the common causes of hydraulic pump failure.
In any mechanical system, components will be subject to wear and tear throughout their working life and will eventually wear out. Poor quality components will obviously have a shorter lifespan and should, therefore, be avoided, but there are a number of system failures common to all models of hydraulic pump that can easily be prevented if users are vigilant and pay attention to the operation of the system they are using. There are three common hydraulic pump failure symptoms that operators should be aware of that can be an indication of impending hydraulic pump failure:
If the hydraulic pump is making a whining noise or producing banging or knocking sounds, it can be assign of aeration or cavitation inside the pump. As the piston operates, pressure inside the pump drops and the resulting higher atmospheric pressure in the reservoir pushes hydraulic fluid along the inlet line into the pump. Anything that reduces this inlet flow can cause dissolved air in the oil to be drawn out forming air bubbles. When these reach an area of high pressure, the bubbles will implode under pressure and the resulting shockwaves will produce a high pitched whining sound. This can be assign of a damaged or blocked suction strainer or a plugged breather cap. High temperature in the fluid can also cause air to be released or low temperature can increase viscosity and slow fluid entering the pump so fluid temperature should be monitored closely. While not a common problem in the UK, systems operating high above sea level can also suffer from insufficient fluid entering the inlet due to atmospheric pressure being too low to push it through. Air from outside entering the system will result in aeration and will result in a knocking or rattling sound in the pump. As the pressure inside the system is lower than outside, any leaks in the suction line or the cylinder seal will cause air to enter the system. Poorly tightened connections on the suction line can also result in this problem. If this is suspected apply a layer of oil over any suspected location for a leak. If a hole appears in the oil as air is drawn in, the leak has been located. The noise will subside momentarily as this happens if aeration is the cause of the sound. If a leak is not located, check the reservoir. If the fluid level is too low, air can also been drawn in here or if the fluid entering the reservoir is dropping from a height it can cause bubbles to form as the fluid splashes which again can then enter the system. Any foaming of the fluid in the reservoir is another sign of aeration as the air exiting the system will cause foam to form.
Hydraulic fluid in a working system should never be above a temperature of eighty two degrees Celsius. A temperature exceeding this can be an indication of a malfunctioning heat exchanger or an overheating final drive motor. Cooler fins and the cooling fan should be cleaned and inspected for any damage, along with the fan belt, Any change in the pressure in the system from the manufactures settings will lead to an increase in temperature, along with other problems. Pressure levels should be checked in case deliberate or accidental adjustment of pressure has been carried out and relief valves checked in case they are damaged or incorrectly adjusted, as this can also lead to a change in system pressure and subsequent overheating. A lowered level of hydraulic fluid in the reservoir can also lead to overheating. if this is the case, the level of fluid should be topped up and the reservoir checked for any leaks that could be leading to this. All filters should checked for build up of debris or blockage as this can also affect pressure in the case of internal filters or cause insufficient flow of air in cooling systems. It is also worth considering the use of an offline filter
If your hydraulic system is running slower than usual, or showing increased cycle times, this is an indication of a drop in pressure within the system which can then lead to a subsequent overheating. This can be an indication of a leak in the system. If it is an external leak, it will usually be easy to locate and repair. However, if no external leak is visible it could be a sign of an internal leak in the gear pump or actuators and a hydraulic flow tester should be employed to test for this and locate the leak for repair.
While using good quality hydraulic fluid and implementing good contamination control systems can avoid many problems, sometimes the worst can still happen. If any of the above indicators are observed, they should not be ignored and the source of the problem located and repaired before they cause further damage. The implosion of air bubbles during cavitation can cause internal wear on the pump and dislodge debris or metallic fragments that can travel through the system, causing wear and erosion to components. These can then lead to further system failure. Aeration can lead to lowered lubrication inside the pump, leading to friction between metal components and the pump seizing up. This can not only damage the pump but also alter the pressure in the system, causing overheating and damage to other components. Overheating can lower the viscosity of hydraulic fluid, lowering its ability to lubricate and degrading it and shortening its lifespan and causing heat damage to seals, leading to leaks.
Any one of these issues can lead to a cascade effect, causing damage to multiple parts of the overall system and resulting in lost work hours and revenue and expensive repairs. If your equipment is displaying any of these symptoms, call CJ Plant maintenance today. We understand that when your equipment is malfunctioning or damaged you need fast and efficient diagnosis and thorough professional repairs as soon as possible. We carry out hydraulic pump repair and plant maintenance to customers throughout the UK and offer free collection, wherever you are located if we cannot perform repairs on site. We will thoroughly inspect your faulty equipment and offer a full evaluation and no obligation quote for repair. After repair we will return your equipment fully restored to OEM standards with a written twelve month warranty. For further information on the services we provide, please contact us, we will be happy to help.
Water mixing in with the hydraulic fluid is bad news for the hydraulic pump. When too much water is present in the hydraulic fluid, the internal components may start to corrode.In addition to its corrosion-causing qualities, water is also problematic because it could freeze inside the pump.
The hydraulic fluid present inside the pump can also be problematic even if it doesn’t mix with water.If some small particles fall into the liquid, it’s possible that they could deal damage to the inside of the pump. You must also check if the fluid level is correct or else that could alter the performance of the pump.Lastly, the viscosity of the hydraulic fluid must be just right to keep the pump from sustaining damage. Make it a habit to routinely check the viscosity of the hydraulic pump to see that it has not degraded just yet.
Heat can act as a kind of amplifier of other hydraulic pump-related issues. The heat itself can be a byproduct of other issues affecting the hydraulic pump so be sure to take note of it.
Because hydraulic pumps need the right pressure levels to function, anything that affects it can be disruptive or even damaging. Some of the joints and shafts of hydraulic pumps may spring leaks as they age causing holes to open up. If too much air gets inside the pump via the holes, it may not work as intended.
Cavitation refers to the formation of small vapor-filled bubbles in areas within the pump where the pressure is low. Once those bubbles are exposed to high pressure, they may burst and start to damage the pump.
A leading cause of many hydraulic pump failures is hydraulic fluid contamination. It is very important to ensure that both components and fluids are clean prior to use. Fluid contamination forces hydraulic pumps and valves to wear prematurely resulting in hydraulic system failures and damaged system components. Read our article, Three Ways to Improve the Life-Span of Hydraulic Machinery, to learn how to prevent this common hydraulic mishap.
Over-heating a hydraulic hose can cause thermal expansion which can in turn cause premature aging of the elastomers and plastics within the material that comprises the internal hose tube. This condition leads to decreased elongation of the molecular structure of the material and contributes to increased brittleness eventually leading to premature hose failure.
While many hose manufacturers produce anti-wear covers that include enhanced abrasion resistance characteristics, the hose assemblies must be installed in a manner that minimizes contact with other components in the system. They must also be clamped appropriately to ensure that they do not rub against other hoses or mechanical components during use. Improper installation of hose assemblies leading to excess abrasion will cause premature hose failure.
When a hose assembly is not properly assembled, it can create a very dangerous situation. In fact, the most likely cause of hose assembly failure is a result of improper assembly rather than from manufactured defects. One of the most common assembly mistakes is caused by fittings that are not inserted to the proper insertion depth within the hose. When the crimp fitting is not inserted completely, the surface area where the crimp ferrule is clamped to the hose is reduced thus compromising the connection and leading to a condition where the fitting blows off the hose under pressure exposing the machine operator to a dangerous condition that could lead to serious injury.
We are the largest hydraulic fitting manufacturer in the United States! (Not to mention we operate multiple manufacturing facilities internationally as well.) Our scale means that we have the capability to keep a wide range of product inventory on-hand and ready to ship. This reduces the downtime our customers experience when their systems fail and fast component repair or replacement is time critical.
Most often, a hydraulic failure is related to issues within the pump, creating a chain reaction throughout the entire system. Attention to detail and regular maintenance can go a long way in detecting early failings, creating a safe
Often the primary cause for hydraulic failure is when foreign matter gets mixed with the fluid, impacting the pump’s overall operational efficiency. The absence of a particle filter can allow contaminants into the hydraulic system, taking the form of gas, liquid, or solid. This speeds up the rate of wear and tear.
Hydraulic pumps are designed to perform at specific pressure levels. If pressures get too high, the pump ends up pushing against the other components, resulting in faster wear and tear of the pump and ultimately, permanent failure.
This refers to the air bubbles within the hydraulic fluid. They’re exposed to the pressure within the pump can lead to an implosion. That will remove the metal debris from the components and raise the temperature to dangerous levels.
This happens when any trapped air in the hydraulic fluid gets sucked into the pump through faulty shaft seals or joints. This results in a high-pitched sound that will rise as the pressures increases. Too much pump aeration will turn the hydraulic fluid milky while making other components within the system unstable.
Different from the one mentioned previously. If the air bubbles within the hydraulic fluid are subjected to system pressure, the bubbles can collapse inward instantly, generating intense shock waves. This can result in serious damage to the hydraulic pump.
When hydraulic fluid doesn’t fill the space within the pump completely, possibly due to the pump moving too quickly, an intake line that’s too long or restricted or high fluid viscosity, cavitation occurs. It can produce the same high-pitched sound as an aeration issue.
A specific level of viscosity needs to be maintained at all times within a hydraulic pump. If levels rise too much, it can cause cavitation. However, if viscosity levels are too low, too much heat will be produced, causing leaking.
While often a side effect of other problems resulting in hydraulic failure, it can also be a cause. Too much heat is a warning sign that something isn’t working correctly and needs to be investigated immediately.
The best way to prevent a hydraulic failure is to make sure the oil within the system is properly maintained, as it’s the most important component of any hydraulic system. Doing this can save you thousands of dollars in
A hydraulic pump failure can be caused by a number of factors. There are several different types of pumps available on the market, and each can have its own specific failure mode. Of course, certain failure modes are common to all types of pumps. Some of these failures can be caused by poor system design, using low-quality fluids and/or poor contamination control.
The best way to prevent future failures is to ensure that you are using quality hydraulic fluids. Keep in mind that the fluid is the single most important component of a hydraulic system, so always use high-quality hydraulic fluids with the correct viscosity for critical equipment.
Hydraulic fluids should also be kept clean, cool and dry. This is highly important to their performance. One of the ways you can do this is through quality filtration. Filters should be selected only if they achieve the target cleanliness levels that have been set for the fluid in the system. Also, use quality filters in locations that assure the required protection and upgrade the filters when necessary.
Another option for keeping hydraulic fluids clean is oil regeneration technology. Using a system that is able to separate and remove particles down to the nano scale can make a major difference in the service life of the hydraulic fluid while also extending the life of machines.
In addition, consider the possibility of using offline filters, because the cost of removing dirt is often much less in an offline mode than trying to do everything in a pressure-line filter location on the hydraulic system.
It is estimated that between 70 to 80 percent of hydraulic system failures are from contamination, with particle contamination making up the largest portion. Therefore, it is best practice to regularly perform oil analysis with particle counts.
Remember, the hydraulic pump is generally the most expensive component on a hydraulic system. It has the highest reliability risk, the highest contaminant sensitivity risk and the ability to cause chain-reaction failures. In other words, when the pump starts to fail, it starts to kick out debris into a debris field downstream of the pump. If there is not a good filter downstream, this debris moves on to other components like valves and actuators, and can lead to damage in those components as well.
Be wary of quick-fix solutions like switching to costly synthetics. Instead, provide solutions to the problems that exist and tackle potential future problems proactively. It is critical to set the proper cleanliness and dryness targets and to develop contamination control procedures that will allow you to meet those targets. By doing so, you should greatly reduce and possibly eliminate your pump failures.
Hydraulic pumps are used in almost every type of production system, from plastic mold injection machines to the common conveyor belt. With proper maintenance, most hydraulic pumps will operate smoothly for years, but even with proper maintenance, the pressure inside these devices will eventually cause failures that need to be addressed as soon as possible. The way to avoid total system failure is by monitoring your pumps and looking for the following warning signs.
Liquids should remain in the tubes that were designed for them. If you notice any liquids anywhere else inside the pump, you have a problem. A line may have a break, or a seal may be loose. No matter what the case, an interior leak means your pump has gone bad.
Have you discovered liquid on the outside of your pump? This means either an interior leak has worsened or there could be a leak on the HPU that the pump is mounted to. This leakage results in reduced pressure in the system and immediate action is required to repair and salvage the pump. Leaking reduces the pressure, which increases the temperature of the system. This affects the viscosity of the oil, reducing the pressure in the system.
Increased fluid temperatures can be the result of the system’s inability to dissipate heat. In most systems, heat within the fluid dissipates through the fluid in the reservoir and a heat exchanger. Heat can cause the fluid to thin, which prevents proper lubrication and may cause pump leaks, reducing pump efficiency and system performance.
Hydraulic fluid that has a milky appearance is a clear indication of water contamination. One source is condensation buildup on the walls of the fluid reservoir as a result of temperature changes from warm days to cool nights. Water contamination can also corrode the pump and other critical components, which can shorten component life. Periodic fluid changes and draining of the water from the reservoir ensure water removal from the system.
If your seals continuously leak and fail, your pump may be operating with a bent or misaligned rod. Depending on the extent of the damage, a skilled machine shop may be able to repair your existing equipment, allowing you to get the most out of your equipment and minimizing costs.
System moving slow? If performance decreases, this could be a sign that your hydraulic pump is starting to go bad or your system is designed incorrectly. This lack of efficiency indicates a lack of flow.
You never want to let your system run if your pump is suffering from any of these problems listed above because it means your system is on the verge of experiencing pump failure. These symptoms are an indicator that something could be seriously wrong and could result in some expensive damage to your hydraulic system. The hydraulic experts at Pneumatic And Hydraulic Company can help in identifying the warning signs and replacing your pump before the damage becomes too costly.
Hydraulic systems are in general members of the fluid power branch of power transmission. Hydraulic pumps are also members of the hydraulic power pack/hydraulic power unit family. Hydraulic units are encased mechanical systems that use liquids for hydraulics.
The hydraulic systems that hydraulic pumps support exist in a range of industries, among them agriculture, automotive manufacturing, defense contracting, excavation, and industrial manufacturing. Within these industries, machines and applications that rely on hydraulic pumps include airplane flaps, elevators, cranes, automotive lifts, shock absorbers, automotive brakes, garage jacks, off-highway equipment, log splitters, offshore equipment, hydraulic motors/hydraulic pump motors, and a wide range of other hydraulic equipment.
When designing hydraulic pumps, manufacturers have many options from which to choose in terms of material composition. Most commonly, they make the body of the pump–the gears, pistons, and hydraulic cylinders–from a durable metal material. This metal is one that that can hold up against the erosive and potentially corrosive properties of hydraulic fluids, as well as the wear that comes along with continual pumping. Metals like this include, among others, steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
First, what are operating specifications of their customer? They must make sure that the pump they design matches customer requirements in terms of capabilities. These capabilities include maximum fluid flow, minimum and maximum operating pressure, horsepower, and operating speeds. Also, based on application specifications, some suppliers may choose to include discharge sensors or another means of monitoring the wellbeing of their hydraulic system.
Next, what is the nature of the space in which the pump will work? Based on the answer to this question, manufacturers will design the pump with a specific weight, rod extension capability, diameter, length, and power source.
Manufacturers must also find out what type of substance does the customer plan on running through the pumps. If the application calls for it, manufacturers can recommend operators add other substances to them in order to decrease the corrosive nature of certain hydraulic fluids. Examples of such fluids include esters, butanol, pump oils, glycols, water, or corrosive inhibitors. These substances differ in operating temperature, flash point, and viscosity, so they must be chosen with care.
All hydraulic pumps are composed in the same basic way. First, they have a reservoir, which is the section of the pump that houses stationary fluid. Next, they use hydraulic hoses or tubes to transfer this fluid into the hydraulic cylinder, which is the main body of the hydraulic system. Inside the cylinder, or cylinders, are two hydraulic valves and one or more pistons or gear systems. One valve is located at each end; they are called the intake check/inlet valve and the discharge check/outlet valve, respectively.
Hydraulic pumps operate under the principle of Pascal’s Law, which states the increase in pressure at one point of an enclosed liquid in equilibrium is equally transferred to all other points of said liquid.
To start, the check valve is closed, making it a normally closed (NC) valve. When the check is closed, fluid pressure builds. The piston forces the valves open and closes repeatedly at variable speeds, increasing pressure in the cylinder until it builds up enough to force the fluid through the discharge valve. In this way, the pump delivers sufficient force and energy to the attached equipment or machinery to move the target load.
When the fluid becomes pressurized enough, the piston withdraws long enough to allow the open check valve to create a vacuum that pulls in hydraulic fluid from the reservoir. From the reservoir, the pressurized fluid moves into the cylinder through the inlet. Inside the cylinder, the fluid picks up more force, which it carries over into the hydraulic system, where it is released through the outlet.
Piston pumps create positive displacement and build pressure using pistons. Piston pumps may be further divided into radial piston pumps and axial piston pumps.
Radial pumps are mostly used to power relatively small flows and very high-pressure applications. They use pistons arranged around a floating center shaft or ring, which can be moved by a control lever, causing eccentricity and the potential for both inward and outward movement.
Axial pumps, on the other hand, only allow linear motion. Despite this, they are very popular, being easier and less expensive to produce, as well as more compact in design.
Gear pumps, or hydraulic gear pumps, create pressure not with pistons but with the interlocking of gear teeth. When teeth are meshed together, fluid has to travel around the outside of the gears, where pressure builds.
External gear pumps facilitate flow by enlisting two identical gears that rotate against each other. As liquid flows in, it is trapped by the teeth and forced around them. It sits, stuck in the cavities between the teeth and the casing, until it is so pressurized by the meshing of the gears that it is forced to the outlet port.
Internal gear pumps, on the other hand, use bi-rotational gears. To begin the pressurizing process, gear pumps first pull in liquid via a suction port between the teeth of the exterior gear, called the rotor, and the teeth of the interior gear, called the idler. From here, liquid travels between the teeth, where they are divided within them. The teeth continue to rotate and mesh, both creating locked pockets of liquid and forming a seal between the suction port and the discharge port. Liquid is discharged and power is transported once the pump head is flooded. Internal gears are quite versatile, usable with a wide variety of fluids, not only including fuel oils and solvents, but also thick liquids like chocolate, asphalt, and adhesives.
Various other types of hydraulic pumps include rotary vane pumps, centrifugal pumps, electric hydraulic pumps, hydraulic clutch pumps, hydraulic plunger pumps, hydraulic water pumps, hydraulic ram pumps, portable 12V hydraulic pumps, hydraulic hand pumps, and air hydraulic pumps.
Rotary vane pumps are fairly high efficiency pumps, though they are not considered high pressure pumps. Vane pumps, which are a type of positive-displacement pump, apply constant but adjustable pressure.
Centrifugal pumps use hydrodynamic energy to move fluids. They feature a rotating axis, an impeller, and a casing or diffuser. Most often, operators use them for applications such as petroleum pumping, sewage, petrochemical pumping, and water turbine functioning.
Electric hydraulic pumps are hydraulic pumps powered by an electric motor. Usually, the hydraulic pump and motor work by turning mechanisms like impellers in order to create pressure differentials, which in turn generate fluid movement. Nearly any type of hydraulic pump can be run with electricity. Most often, operators use them with industrial machinery.
Hydraulic clutch pumps help users engage and disengage vehicle clutch systems. They do so by applying the right pressure for coupling or decoupling shafts in the clutch system. Coupled shafts allow drivers to accelerate, while decoupled shafts allow drivers to decelerate or shift gears.
Hydraulic ram pumps are a type of hydraulic pump designed to harness hydropower, or the power of water, to elevate it. Featuring only two moving hydraulic parts, hydraulic ram pumps require only the momentum of water to work. Operators use hydraulic ram pumps to move water in industries like manufacturing, waste management and sewage, engineering, plumbing, and agriculture. While hydraulic ram pumps return only about 10% of the water they receive, they are widely used in developing countries because they do not require fuel or electricity.
Hydraulic water pumps are any hydraulic pumps used to transfer water. Usually, hydraulic water pumps only require a little bit of energy in the beginning, as the movement and weight of water generate a large amount of usable pressure.
Air hydraulic pumps are hydraulic pumps powered by air compressors. In essence, these energy efficient pumps work by converting air pressure into hydraulic pressure.
Hydraulic pumps are useful for many reasons. First, they are simple. Simple machines are always an advantage because they are less likely to break and easier to repair if they do. Second, because fluid is easy to compress and so quick to create pressure force, hydraulic pumps are very efficient. Next, hydraulic pumps are compact, which means they are easy to fit into small and oddly shaped spaces. This is especially true in comparison to mechanical pumps and electrical pumps, which manufacturers cannot design so compactly. Speaking of design, another asset of hydraulic pumps is their customizability. Manufacturers can modify them easily. Likewise, hydraulic pumps are very versatile, not only because they are customizable, but also because they can work in places where other types of pump systems can’t, such as in the ocean. Furthermore, hydraulic pumps can produce far more power than similarly sized electrical pumps. Finally, these very durable hydraulic components are much less likely to explode than some other types of components.
To make sure that your hydraulic pumps stay useful for a long time, you need to treat them with care. Care includes checking them on a regular basis for problems like insufficient fluid pressure, leaks, and wear and tear. You can use diagnostic technology like discharge sensors to help you with detect failures and measure discharge pressure. Checking vibration signals alone is often not enough.
To keep yourself and your workers safe, you need to always take the proper precautions when operating or performing maintenance and repairs on your hydraulic pumps. For example, you should never make direct contact with hydraulic fluid. For one, the fluid made be corrosive and dangerous to your skin. For two, even if the pump isn’t active at that moment, the fluid can still be pressurized and may potentially harm you if something goes wrong. For more tips on hydraulic pump care and operation, talk to both your supplier and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
Pumps that meet operating standards are the foundation of safe and effective operations, no matter the application. Find out what operating standards your hydraulic pumps should meet by talking to your industry leaders.
The highest quality hydraulic pumps come from the highest quality hydraulic pump manufacturers. Finding the highest quality hydraulic pump manufacturers can be hard, which is why we have we listed out some of our favorites on this page. All of those whom we have listed come highly recommended with years of experience. Find their information nestled in between these information paragraphs.
Once you have put together you list, get to browsing. Pick out three or four hydraulic pump supply companies to which you’d like to speak, then reach out to each of them. After you’ve spoken with representatives from each company, decide which one will best serve you, and get started on your project.
Finding the source of the problem when a hydraulic system fails can be difficult. Human error and faulty maintenance are only a couple of reasons of how it can happen. The multiple parts such as sump, motors, valves, fluids are all aspects that could also be to blame for any issues.
Faulty installations, incompatible parts, and improper usage or maintenance are the top reasons for hydraulic system problems. These issues can result in the hydraulic pump not building pressure accurately.
Air and water contamination cause around 80-90% of failures. System breaches, temperature issues and fault pumps are a few of the areas where contamination can happen. There are two types of air contamination:
Cavitation: Hydraulic oil consists of about 9% dissolved air, which the pump can pull out and implode, causing pump problems and damage to the pump and other components in a hydraulic system.
These days, heavy equipment of all types relies on the use of hydraulic systems in some form or fashion. A hydraulic pump is a critical element of these systems as it supplies the hydraulic fluid to all vital system components. It takes a highly-specialized expertise to keep hydraulic pumps in peak working condition.
Ever-Pac is a full-service machine shop in Riverside, Southern California that is capable of performing a wide variety of hydraulic pump repair tasks.
There are three basic types of hydraulic pumps that are commonly used in hydraulic machinery applications: gear, piston and vane. While there are key differences in how each pump functions, they essentially apply the same basic principle of transmitting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.
Using the force provided by the pump, the hydraulic fluid moves through the transmission pipeline. Pressure then builds up in reaction to the load, and this pressure is what drives the machinery.
When a hydraulic pump fails, the hydraulic system will not operate properly or may fail completely. Pump failure can result due to excessive heat buildup, contamination in the transmission pipeline, or cavitation – which is caused by a lack of oil flowing into the inlet port. Cavitation will ultimately damage the pump and inhibit the buildup of the necessary pressure. Timely preventive pump maintenance is essential for eliminating these causes of pump failure.
The well-trained and highly-skilled Ever-Pac technicians possess an unrivaled knowledge of the complex hydraulic pump technology. We provide our techs with the innovative tooling and equipment they need to get the job done. We can perform everything from basic hydraulic repairs and maintenance to a complete hydraulic pump rebuild. Our hydraulic pump repair work is also covered by a one-year warranty for your protection and peace of mind.
A hydraulic pump that malfunctions or fails will hinder the performance of your machinery and reduce the productivity of your entire operation. The team at Ever-Pac is committed to getting your hydraulic pump recondition or repair project completed as quickly as possible to help you avoid costly downtime. Our affordable pricing structure also assures that you won’t have to pay more than you should for a hydraulic pump repair job.
Ever-Pac has been a part of the Cat family since 1990. Quinn Company has been proudly serving the heavy equipment needs of southern California companies for nearly 100 years. We are capable of performing hydraulic pump repairs on your Cat equipment, as well as products by other leading name brand manufacturers.
Don’t let a faulty hydraulic pump have a negative impact on your company’s bottom line. Contact Ever-Pac in Riverside, CA today to learn more about how a hydraulic pump recondition or repair can benefit your operation. We’ll also be happy to provide a no-obligation price quote.
Hydraulic pumps are vital components in your excavator’s hydraulic system. They play an important role in ensuring that your excavator operates well. Remember, your excavator heavily relies on hydraulic power to run.
Over time, your excavator hydraulic pump will fail – it will develop mechanical issues which may even force you to replace the entire pump instead of simply repairing it. KS XuGong understands how frustrating hydraulic pump failure is, and that’s why we have prepared this guide especially for you.
An excavator hydraulic pump is a device that your excavator hydraulic system needs to run. The hydraulic pump converts mechanical power into hydraulic power by generating enough hydraulic fluid flow required to run your excavator.
Excavator hydraulic pumps enable your excavator to move around and work effectively and efficiently. Whenever you hear the term “hydraulic,” you can be sure that it means liquid used to carry out a specific task.
Your excavator uses a variable displacement hydraulic pump, which is a bit complex in terms of its functionality as it allows you to adjust it as you wish. That’s why it is always important to have a certified mechanic repair and/or replace your excavator hydraulic pump and its components.
As you have read earlier in this guide, excavator hydraulic pumps work by conver