skid steer hydraulic pump problems supplier
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.
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.
Pumps are the heart of hydraulic systems, and when they quit working, your equipment is dead. That’s why it is so important for you to know the four key signs of an impending pump failure!
Right before a pump completely fails, operators usually notice a loss of power or change in how the machine behaves. For example, the arms on a skid steer loader might not have their normal lifting power or the arm on a compact excavator may behave erratically. The arms on an excavator or a skid steer may be moving much more slowly.
Another bad sign is a pump that suddenly starts making some new noises or exhibiting excessive vibration. That can point to quite a few different causes, from loose set screws to failed bearings.
Another bad sign for pumps is when they start running hotter than normal. That can point to quite a few things, such as contamination in the system or a dirty heat exchanger. It can also point to issues within the pump, too.
Leaks are another bad sign, and when ignored they can lead to a host of problems for your pump. A leak indicates that a seal is wearing out and needs to be replaced -- and this makes sense, because seals will eventually wear out.
If you ignore the leak, then dirt, grit, dust, grease, and moisture can make their way into the pump. This type of contamination will cause the pump components to wear out faster than they should, and lead to clogged filters.
If you see any of these symptoms, then you need to schedule some time to have your pump repaired. The solution might be as simple as replacing a seal or bearing, or it could be a more troubling issue like cavitation. Regardless of the
Shop New Holland hydraulic pumps online! You can easily browse by model or search for the exact item you need. You are sure to find the right pump you need for your New Holland equipment. We have single, double, and triple gear hydraulic pumps available to you.
If you need a hydraulic pump replacement for your New Holland equipment, let Loader Parts Source be your source. All of our hydraulic pump replacement parts are made to meet OEM specifications and requirements. That means when you buy from LPS, you can rest assured that you are getting a quality replacement part. Contact us today for New Holland hydraulic pump replacement services.
Founded in 2008, the services that Loader Parts Source provides today initially started when Levi Burkholder opened his own hydraulic repair business in 1996, called Burkholder Repair, in Wakarusa, IN. After about ten years in business, Levi closed Burkholder Repair and opened LPS.
Since its opening in 2008, LPS has grown from just providing hydraulic pump services to also offering undercarriage parts, starters, engines, alternators, seals, bearings, radiators, and more.
Shop Bobcat hydraulic pumps online! You can easily browse by model on the left hand column. Specifically, you can filter by make or model to locate the type of pump you need for your Bobcat equipment. We have single, double, and triple gear hydraulic pumps available to you.
If you need a hydraulic pump replacement for your Bobcat equipment, let Loader Parts Source be your source. Our company stands out from the competition because we care about not just getting the right part to you, but also about providing knowledgeable troubleshooting advice and technical assistance so that you can install and use it properly. Contact us today for Bobcat hydraulic pump replacement services.
Founded in 2008, the services that Loader Parts Source provides today initially started when Levi Burkholder opened his own hydraulic repair business in 1996, called Burkholder Repair, in Wakarusa, IN. After about ten years in business, Levi closed Burkholder Repair and opened LPS.
Since its openings in 2008, LPS has grown from just providing hydraulic pump services to also offering undercarriage parts, starters, engines, alternators, seals, bearings, radiators, and more.
See our extensive hydraulic repair and reconditioning experience serving the markets listed below. Contact us. Learn more about Precision’s hydraulic pump, hydraulic motor, hydraulic valve, and hydraulic cylinder repair and service.
See our extensive hydraulic repair and reconditioning experience serving the markets listed below. Contact us. Learn more about Precision’s hydraulic pump, hydraulic motor, hydraulic valve, and hydraulic cylinder repair and service.
Road Construction: Asphalt Pavers, Vibe Rollers, Material Transfer Vehicles, Cold Planers, Sweepers, Concrete Concrete Mixers, Concrete Pumping Trucks, Concrete Placers/Spreaders, Batch Plants, Concrete Pavers, Loaders, Excavators, Skid Steer Loaders, Horizontal Directional Drills, Trenchers, Cranes, Soil Stabilizers
One of the common causes of problems in mechanized systems is degraded hose fittings. Once we have inspected your agricultural machines and established this to be the root of the problem, we will ensure that the replaced hose fittings are in excellent condition. This helps to improve the longevity of the machine and deliver better performance.
We will discuss with you the specific needs of your hydraulic cylinders, allowing us to design the cylinder in such a way that they are tailored to your needs. If you have an existing cylinder in place, our team of experts will work on repairing it so that it helps you to meet your goals and objectives.
Over the years that we have provided agricultural machinery repair services, we have encountered customers with a wide array of needs. Today, we have all the machinery required to handle almost every type of hydraulic-related job. All you need to do is to contact us and explain what is on your mind, and we will devise a way to make it happen.
Precision Hydraulic Inc. is you’re knowledgeable and dependable Supplier for all major hydraulic equipment manufacturers and industries. If it’s hydraulic “Precision can Repair and Test It”. Below a list of just some of the brands we repair.
Hopefully, this article will help you to fix the problems with your skid steer loaders.Message usto learn more aboutWEITAI skid steer loadersand other construction machinery.
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.
The hydraulic gear pump adapts its technology from the industry of automotive. This specialized pump uses a single belt with sheaves to move power to the hydraulic pump from its engine. The aftermarket bobcat hydraulic gear pump is ideal for Bobcat applications. It rotates counterclockwise and fits for different applications, including bobcat skid steer of various sizes. The hydraulic pump for Bobcat increases the speed of the engine while reducing fuel consumption giving high efficiency. Due to its size, it is a compact and great fit for smaller applications. Our product range includes:
As an established hydraulic gear pump supplier in the industry, Magister Hydraulics offers a range of Bobcat hydraulic gear pumps from the leading European manufacturer. Each of our products undergoes strict quality testing and assurance before making it to our inventory. We ensure each hydraulic pump complies with OEM standards. Our experts can also help you select the best equipment that fits your specific requirements.
All our products come with a one-year warranty and free shipping giving you optimal return on your investment. We also provide special volume discounts on bulk purchases giving value for your money and more savings. If you need the right pump replacement parts for your hydraulic unit, you can give us a call at 973-344-5313.
Whether it"s your construction vehicle or another piece of heavy machinery, the failure of a hydraulic pump can mean the failure of a project. However, before a hydraulic pump fails, it will often give a lot of warning signs first. Don"t ignore these signs of a failing hydraulic pump.
Hydraulic pumps make noise as they operate. You will grow accustomed to whatever noise you hear, which can help when the noises start to change. If you hear unusual noises, you may have a problem. At no time should your hydraulic system create banging or rattling noises.
A major cause of noise is aeration, which is what happens air becomes trapped within the system. Noises can also occur because the pump isn"t getting enough fluid. When there"s a lack of fluid, corrosion can take place which will contaminate the little fluid still in the system.
As that fluid circulates it can cause damage to every part of a hydraulic system. If you"re hearing odd noises from your hydraulic pump, then cease operating your heavy equipment or vehicle. You need to have the pump looked at to determine if you should repair or replace it.
Any leaking of hydraulic fluids should give you some concern. In larger hydraulic equipment, leaking is sometimes considered inevitable. However, when heavy equipment and vehicles show signs of leaking, you should immediately do what you can to mitigate the issue.
A leak that occurs inside or around the pump should prompt you to seek a repair. Equally, if you see signs of leaking outside the vehicle, then you can assume an interior leak has taken a turn for the worse. With a leak, the hydraulic system cannot maintain pressure, which can lead to issues with performance or outright system failure.
Sometimes, the leak doesn"t begin with the pump itself, but rather with a loose seal or a break in a line. Even when this is the case, the leak can lead to poor pump performance. Starting the investigation from the pump can often help to spot an issue with some other hydraulic component.
If your hydraulic system overheats, there"s a good chance a buildup of dirt and debris is causing the issue. Your hydraulic pump will have a hard time dissipating heat if the filters become clogged. The inability to release heat will cause temperatures to rise even higher.
As the heat increases, so does the temperature of the fluid. Hot fluid can weaken seals and degrade a lot faster than it should. Both those outcomes can mean further trouble for your hydraulic pump.
A bad hydraulic pump will lead to poor or sluggish performance. All the aforementioned issues can lead to a hydraulic pump that isn"t performing as it should. Nevertheless, even if you don"t experience any other issues, the drop in performance is a key sign you need to have your hydraulic pump repaired or replaced.
If your equipment depends on a functioning hydraulic system, you must stay diligent about keeping that system healthy. Monitor your hydraulic system and pay attention to any signs that something isn"t working as it should. Routine maintenance of your hydraulic system will help to keep its performance intact while also helping you find potential issues before they become problems.
Often, protecting the viability of your hydraulic pump only requires that you keep up with changing the fluid and replacing smaller components when necessary. You can often save a hydraulic pump with an issue by having it repaired or rebuilt by a professional service.
AtCarolina Hose & Hydraulics, we specialize in high-quality hydraulic components for heavy equipment and vehicles. Contact us for any of your hydraulic pump concerns immediately.
The heart of your hydraulic system - It is crucial that your hydraulic pump provide you with consistent and reliable performance. If you’ve got a leaky, noisy, or unsatisfactory performing pump, allow us to evaluate it for free and overhaul it with quality OEM or aftermarket parts to get your system. We handle piston, gear and radial piston pumps that come from a variety of mobile and industrial applications ranging from excavators and skid steers to garbage and dump truck PTO pumps.
Valves are another critical component of your hydraulic system, they control all of the flow, sequencing and movement of your other hydraulic components. When you have a valve that is not functioning as expected, it can really throw off or even stop production. NGCH offers repair for directional hand controlled valves from log splitters, wood chippers, processors, crane controls, material handling, farm tractors, and mobile equipment.
We at North Georgia Cylinder & Hydraulic, Inc. have more than just know how for hydraulic repairs. We also have experience in machine shop services such as manual and CNC milling as well as manual and CNC lathe. This allows us to do more extensive in-house cylinder/pump repairs versus outsourcing our metalworking needs. Furthermore, if you need a replacement pin, manifold, shaft or a prototype part, allow us the opportunity to see how we can help! We work with all sorts of materials from mild, alloy and stainless steel, to aluminum, brass, bronze and plastics such as UHMW, PTFE, Delrin and PVC.
Cat skid steer hydraulics not working solutions are not very common, sometimes they can be quite pricey to fix. There are a few things that can cause this problem. This article will attempt to solve common problems like the one you have now and some more minor problems. It won’t give you a guaranteed fix for your problem but I will share with you some solutions that have worked for me in the past.
A Cat Skid Steer is a machine that helps farmers with their farm equipment. It has a set of tracks that allow it to move along the ground, and it can also move along a skid plate. This machine helps farmers with things like moving their tractor around, and it is also used for things like harvesting crops.
One of the problems that people have with their Cat Skid Steers is that they may not be working correctly. There are a few possible solutions to this problem, and it all depends on the specific situation.
A cat skid steer is an agricultural machine that helps farmers to move large loads of crops or livestock. It works by using hydraulics to move the loader’s weight while the tractor skids on the ground. This allows the machine to move over obstacles and around corners with ease. It’s a great machine to use on the farm, and if you want to buy a skid steer, here are some tips that will help you.
A good skid steer for sale should be well built. You want to look for one that has been well made as it will last for years. It should also be easy to operate so that you can do it without any problems. If it’s too complicated, then you won’t be using it regularly and this will lead to a lot of maintenance.
One common symptom of a low hydraulic fluid level is that the skid steer will not move. A few common solutions to this problem are to check the fluid level and top off as necessary, or replace the hydraulic system altogether. true 6. The Hydraulic pump is not working properly. If the skid steer consistently stalls, the hydraulic pump may be bad or need to be replaced.
If your cat hydraulic system is not working, there are a few solutions you can try. First, check to see if the system is kinked or bent. If it is, you can have a professional repair the system. If the system does not appear to be kinked or bent, then you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Here are some tips on how to fix a cat hydraulic leak:
1. Check for clogs and debris in the lines. This is a common cause of hydraulic leaks. Remove any clogs or debris that you find using a plunger or a snake.
5. Replace the pump and motor if you have a leak. The most common place to find oil leaks is at the corners of the impeller, so inspect these areas first.
7. Water damage is another frequent cause of failed systems, so look for signs of water damage, such as rust in the pump housing and hoses, which are exposed to water when the system is not running.
Cat skid steer hydraulic systems have been known to break down over time. If the hydraulic system is not working properly, there are a few solutions that may work. One solution is to try and determine the cause of the problem and fix it accordingly. Another solution is to replace the hydraulic system.
There are a number of possible causes for a cat skid steer mechanical system not working. Below are some solutions to common problems. If the problem is not listed, please contact your Cat dealer for assistance.
If your cat skid steer is not working, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem. Here are some common electrical problems and solutions:
2. Check the wiring – Make sure all of the wires are connected properly and that they are not twisted or damaged. Damaged wiring can cause problems with the engine and control system.
3. Test the engine – Turn on the engine and check for any errors or malfunctions in the engine. If there are problems, your cat skid steer may need to be repaired or replaced.
If your cat engine is not working, there are a few solutions that you may try. One common problem with cat engines is the hydraulic system. If this system is not working correctly, it can cause the engine to not start or run properly. Here are some common problems and solutions for cat engines that are not working due to a failing hydraulic system.
1. Check the fluid levels – Make sure the hydraulic fluid is at the correct level and that the skid steer is getting enough of it. Make sure the hoses aren’t kinked or twisted.
If your Cat skid steer hydraulic quick attach isn’t working, there are a few solutions you can try. If it’s not, you can try tightening the nut on the end of the pin or using a wrench to twist it. If that still doesn’t work, you may need to replace the quick attach.
Solution 1: Check the hydraulic fluid levels. Ensure that there is enough hydraulic fluid in the system. If there is not enough hydraulic fluid, add more until the skid steer maneuvers as desired.
Solution 3: Try different attachments. If attaching the skid steer to a different type of linkage is not working, try attaching it to a cable instead of a chain.
Are you having trouble activating your cat skid steer auxiliary hydraulics? Don’t worry, we’ve got a solution for you. Here are some tips to help activate your cat skid steer hydraulics:
1. Check the fluid level. Make sure the hydraulic fluid is full and at the correct level by checking the dipstick or reservoir. If the fluid is low or empty, add more using a syringe or pump.
2. Clean the area around the hydraulic lines. Use a degreaser or brake cleaner to clean away any dirt, grease, or debris that may be blocking the hydraulic lines.
5. Try activating your cat skid steer auxiliary hydraulics again. If everything appears to be working properly, you can skip to step 6 below. If not, continue on to step 6 below to find out how to fix your cat skid steer hydraulic issues.
6. Check the hydraulic oil level in your cat skid steer auxiliary hydraulic system. If the oil is low, you can add a few drops of oil to top it off. Make sure the oil level does not drop below the fill line on your reservoir cap.
The first solution is to check the fluid levels in the hydraulic system. Make sure that the fluid levels are correct and that the hoses are connected properly. If the fluid levels are low, you may need to add more fluid to the system.
If the hydraulic system is not working at all, you may need to replace the machine. This is a more complex repair that should only be attempted by a qualified mechanic.
If your cat skid steer hydraulics are not working, there are a few solutions that you can try. One solution is to check the fluid levels in the hydraulic system. Make sure that the reservoir is full and that there is no water seeping into the system. Another solution is to clean out any debris or clumps that may have formed in the hydraulic lines. Finally, if all else fails, you can have a technician come out and look at the system.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We are independently certified as an ISO 9001:2001 organization. This means that every employee follows a structured and measurable set of policies and procedures to provide consistent, high-quality products and service. Customers all over the world rely on us to be their one-stop shop for all of their hydraulic and hydrostatic needs. They trust us to only use OEM parts and to provide our signature White Box Service. We specialize in handling all types of hydraulic units, for all kinds of machinery and equipment, including: