Staying Safe Around Construction Equipment

Common Causes Of Hydraulic Cylinder Failure

Hydraulics have revolutionized the way that many industries operate. Hydraulic systems help power large machinery used in the construction and manufacturing industries. Problems with a hydraulic cylinder can spell disaster for any project you are working on.

The ability to recognize and address common causes of hydraulic cylinder failure will allow you to keep your equipment running efficiently over time.

Chemical Attacks

Many pieces of heavy machinery are used in environments where exposure to various chemicals is likely. A chemical attack can cause serious damage within your hydraulic cylinder.

Certain chemicals have the potential to attack the seal used to maintain proper pressure within the hydraulic cylinder. When the seal deteriorates, the hydraulic system will cease to function.

You can replace the damaged seal with one resistant to chemical exposure in order to repair cylinder failure caused by a chemical attack.

Bent Rods

A rod is used to help compress hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic cylinder. This rod can become bent or damaged over time. A bent rod isn't capable of completing a full stroke, which results in a reduction in power for your hydraulic equipment.

If you don't address the bent rod quickly, continued use could cause damage to the bearings and seals within your hydraulic cylinder. A bent rod can easily be replaced with a new one to restore full power to any hydraulic system.

Leaking Seals

Many hydraulic cylinder failures are the result of a leaking seal. Seals help to keep hydraulic fluid contained within the cylinder, and they prevent moisture or chemicals from entering into the cylinder from the outside environment.

A damaged seal has the potential to allow contaminants into your hydraulic system. These contaminants can scratch the interior walls of the cylinder and cause further damage to seals and rod bearings within the cylinder itself.

You should check your hydraulic seals often to ensure they are in good condition. Faulty seals should be replaced immediately, and you should consider a change in seal materials or geometry if you are experiencing frequent seal failures.

Hydraulic cylinder failure can be caused by a number of factors. Addressing these factors quickly is critical if you want to repair your hydraulic cylinder and restore function to your hydraulic system.

Keep an eye on seals, rods, and bearings within your hydraulic system so that you can invest in immediate repairs when these components begin to show signs of damage.

For questions you may have regarding how to prevent hydraulic cylinder failure, reach out to a professional company like Certified Products Inc.


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