For machine shops and other businesses, hydraulic components in Minnesota require regular maintenance to keep working. You also have to be aware of when they need attention and pass that knowledge along to your employees. Here are some common symptoms that require attention and troubleshooting when you detect them:
- Abnormal noise: When your equipment starts to sound unusual, that is often due to aeration. This is when air builds up in the hydraulic fluid. You will often hear banging or knocking, but usually it is just different from the usual noises. Fluid foaming is also common. Check the lines for good condition as well as clamps, seals and fittings. This often happens due to a leak, and once you fix it, the problem will stop. If the fluid reservoir is low, that also leads to air buildup. Top it off while you are inspecting these other parts and check the reservoir to make sure it is not leaking either.
- Knocking sound: Knocking is often a symptom of aeration, but it also indicates cavitation. This is a serious situation where the amount of fluid demanded exceeds the fluid that is supplied. That places pressure on circuits and risks implosion, which could injure workers and damage equipment and goods. You will frequently be able to trace this development to clogged strainers or lines. Clearing these areas normally solves the problem. If there are any isolation valves on your system, check to see if they are opening fully. When lines get old, they also get stiff, which impedes the movement of fluid. Replace them when that happens.
- High fluid temperature: Your hydraulic fluid should not exceed temperatures of 180 degrees. When this occurs, viscosity drops and the fluid will be less likely to perform its functions. You will normally be able to trace this problem to heat dissipation systems. If the reservoir is constantly low due to a clog or leak, that will sometimes raise fluid temperature. However, it is also likely that your heat exchanger is malfunctioning, so consider cleaning or replacing it if you do not find blocked lines. If you do not solve this problem quickly, the fluid will damage seals and reduce the life of your equipment. Consider installing a high temperature alarm to assure that you and your employees become aware of any issues with fluid temperature.
- Slow operation: When machines take longer to cycle, this indicates low fluid flow. This can arise from leaks and clogs, just like the other issues listed above. However, in this case, the leaks are usually internal and difficult to detect. If you notice a pressure drop along with a rise in temperature, there is likely a leak somewhere in your equipment’s interior. You will likely need to bring in a professional to find the leaks quickly before you start compromising the condition of your machinery.
Regular troubleshooting of your hydraulic components in Minnesota will keep your shop or manufacturing operation running smooth. When these problems become challenging, a skilled hydraulic shop will prove essential. For these jobs, contact M & M Hydraulic Company to get your equipment working well again.