Common Causes of Hydraulic System Failure

Hydraulic systems play a major role in the functionality of so many industries. Of course, these systems are only useful to their industries when they are functioning properly.

Unfortunately, hydraulic systems are not built to last forever and can fail when you least expect them to. It’s important to stay aware of the potential system failures that can occur to avoid them as much as possible. Not only will this help maintain proper operations for your company and save on hydraulic repair in Minnesota, but it will ensure the safety of workers handling hydraulic systems each day.

Here are some of the most common hydraulic problems that lead to system failure:

• Contaminated fluid: Likely the most common cause of hydraulic system failure is contaminated or dirty hydraulic fluid. Over time, the fluid used in your hydraulic system can get contaminated with particles and other harmful materials. Dirty fluid can wear down the components of your hydraulic system, damaging pumps, valves and other important parts that must work together for system functionality. High-quality hydraulic fluids should always be selected, and filtration methods should be implemented to keep fluid clean.
• Over-pressurization: Each hydraulic system is built to operate under a certain amount of pressure. Using the incorrect pressure on your system can cause internal system damage by wearing down the components.
• Improper connections: Hose fittings are a crucial component of proper hydraulic system operation, and these must be installed correctly to the proper insertion depth and utilize the proper fittings to ensure that the connections are secure. If they are not, the fitting can blow off the hose, compromising the entire system.
• Abrasion: The hoses in your hydraulic system can become damaged due to general abrasion that occurs over time. This may happen when the hoses are installed improperly, allowing them to rub up against other parts of the system, which wears the hose exterior down to the point of failure. it may also occur due to excessive temperatures.
• Air in the fluid: When air bubbles get trapped in hydraulic fluid, a number of issues can present themselves. Air can become compressed inside the system and damage internal components, as well as raise the temperature to too-high levels. Air in the fluid can also lead to hydraulic pump damage that will cause the system to fail over time.

Prevent hydraulic system failure with maintenance

One of the best ways to prevent your hydraulic systems from failing at any point is to maintain consistent system monitoring and keep up with regular hydraulic system maintenance. By carefully observing your hydraulic system and checking for signs of wear, damage or dysfunction, you will be aware of the need for hydraulic repair in Minnesota before the entire system fails.

Routine maintenance goes hand in hand with this. Whether simple or complex, hydraulic systems must be routinely tuned up and cleaned and have parts replaced to maintain smooth operation of the system. This includes cleaning and replacement of hydraulic fluid.

If you’re in need of hydraulic maintenance or hydraulic repair in Minnesota, contact M & M Hydraulic Company. Our hydraulic repair shop can serve all your hydraulic equipment needs, from parts replacement and repair to fittings and service.