Top Causes of Hydraulic Cylinder Failure
Hydraulic cylinders are critical components in various industries, powering heavy machinery and equipment used in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture. Despite their importance, hydraulic cylinders are prone to failure if not properly maintained or operated under unfavorable conditions. Understanding the leading causes of hydraulic cylinder failure can help prevent downtime, reduce costly repairs, and extend the lifespan of your equipment.
1. Extreme Temperatures
Excessive heat is detrimental to hydraulic systems. High temperatures can cause the hydraulic fluid to thin, reducing its lubricating properties and accelerating wear on internal components. Heat can also degrade seals, leading to leaks and pressure loss.
Excessive operating pressures, inadequate cooling, or incorrect hydraulic fluid often cause overheating. To mitigate heat-related issues, it’s essential to use the correct type of hydraulic fluid and monitor fluid temperatures.
2. Contaminated Hydraulic Fluid
One of the leading causes of hydraulic cylinder breakdown is the presence of contaminants in the hydraulic fluid. Dirt, metal particles, and other debris can enter the hydraulic system and cause significant damage to seals, hydraulic cylinder piston rods, and other internal components.
Contaminated fluid increases friction and wear, leading to internal scoring, which in turn causes leaks and reduced performance. Regularly inspecting and replacing hydraulic fluid and using high-quality filters can significantly reduce the risk of contamination.
3. Seal Issues
Hydraulic cylinders rely heavily on seals to contain fluid and maintain pressure within the system. Over time, seals for hydraulic cylinders can degrade due to high operating temperatures, contamination, or exposure to harsh chemicals. Poor-quality seals or improper installation can also lead to premature failure. Once seals are compromised, the system will experience fluid leaks, loss of pressure, and, eventually, cylinder failure.
4. Damaged Pistons, Rods or Bearings
Damaged pistons or worn bearings can severely compromise the performance of a hydraulic cylinder. Pistons are responsible for transmitting the force from the oil to power the machinery, and if they become cracked or damaged, they will fail to fulfill their purpose. Should a cylinder be overloaded or be subjected to a very uneven load the rod may bend and it becomes impossible to operate. Similarly, worn or damaged bearings in the rod ends can lead to uneven movement and increase friction, causing internal damage.
5. Improper Pressure
Operating the system at improper pressure levels, whether too high or too low, can lead to significant damage. Over-pressurization can cause seals to blow out, rods bend and or cylinder tube to become distorted.6. Corrosion and Rust
Hydraulic cylinders are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including moisture, which can lead to corrosion and rust. If left unchecked, rust can weaken the cylinder's structural integrity and cause pitting or cracking to the piston rod. Corrosion can also damage seals and the inside of the tube leading to the hydraulic cylinder leaking and poor performance.
Need Reliable Hydraulic Parts and Expert Support?
White House Products, Ltd. specialises in providing top-tier hydraulic components, including pumps, motors, cylinders, seals, and rods, to ensure your machinery operates at its best. Contact us today for hydraulic cylinder replacement and expert advice to keep your hydraulic systems running efficiently. We can also refurbish your existing hydraulic cylinders to their original specifications when this is economically viable.
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