Hydraulic Cylinder: Practical Tips for Preventing Seal Failures
Seals are critical components for hydraulic cylinders. These elements are essential because they ensure that the fluid pressure is maintained in the hydraulic system. The loss of pressure can lead to inefficiencies in operation. In addition, the seals prevent the loss or leakage of fluid from between the components of the hydraulic system. Under ideal circumstances, the piston, rod, wiper and buffer seals should provide prolonged service. Unfortunately, some problems can occur and accelerate seal damage and failure. Here are some simple tips to help you understand the potential causes of seal failure and how to prevent these issues.
Choose the Right Hydraulic Seals
You should select and purchase the right hydraulic seals for your system to ensure optimal performance and durability. In some cases, hydraulic seals degrade prematurely and fail because they are not right for the specific system. For instance, the material used to manufacture the seals might not be compatible with the fluid in the system, or the seal size could be incorrect. It is important to always determine the ideal seal products for your hydraulic system before purchasing replacement products for prolonged service after installation.
Consider the Operating Conditions
The operating conditions of your hydraulic system can influence the longevity of the seal. In simple terms, the seals can crack or fracture due to unsuitable operating conditions in the cylinder. For example, if the hydraulic system experiences overheating incidents or a lot of back pressure during equipment operations, the seals will be affected by the extreme conditions. The seals exposed to these unfavourable elements could show signs of cracking, burning or leaking. You should avoid this issue by monitoring the conditions of your hydraulic cylinder and keeping it at optimal levels.
Opt for Professional Installation
You should avoid the failure of hydraulic seals due to poor installation of the components during the assembly of the cylinder. Incorrect placement techniques or tools can cause the damage of the seal, limiting its lifespan. Also, the seal failure can occur due to unsafe handling of the component or poor positioning in the system. You should avoid this problem by opting for professional installation during hydraulic setup, maintenance and repairs.
Prevent Seal Contamination
Finally, you should prevent the damage of the hydraulic seals by contaminants. Introduction of impurities into the hydraulic system could cause the abrasion and subsequent wear of the hydraulic seals. For instance, dirt, mud, metal fillings and chemicals can compromise seals. You should prevent the accumulation of foreign materials in the cylinder and around the seal to avoid premature failure.
For more tips and information, contact a local hydraulic cylinder repair company.