Hydraulic systems depend on clean, viscous fluid to operate correctly. If you are running a hydraulic machine without the correct oil viscosity or with oil that has substantial impurities, you could be putting your expensive heavy machinery at risk of failure. Operating machinery with fluid that isn’t at the correct viscosity could cause your equipment to overheat, and fluid with impurities, like dust and water, can cause your gear to prematurely corrode. Working with an expert specializing in hydraulic repair in Minnesota can help you maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of all of your hydraulic equipment.
Hydraulic systems typically come pre-loaded with a base fluid that is then topped off with additives. The frequency with which additives are added depends primarily on the type of machinery and the frequency with which it’s used.
While most hydraulic fluid can last for years without being replaced, there are a number of things that can cause equipment users to have to replace their oil prematurely. While some degradation is natural and expected, here are just some of the things that can cause hydraulic fluid to prematurely corrode:
- Overheating: When oil is repeatedly overheated, it may lose some of its viscosity. This becomes problematic in hydraulic systems, which rely on consistent pressure to operate successfully. Heat can also cause oil to burn, which may result in small particulates floating in the fluid. This can cause abrasion against the hydraulic surfaces.
- Contamination: Particulate contamination, as well as condensate contamination, is a common problem with hydraulic equipment. Occasionally, dust particles can enter your hydraulic system and cause substantive internal damage. Condensate contamination occurs when water forms inside the hydraulic column, often resulting in rust and corrosion.
- Oxidization: Oxidative degradation is typically only diagnosable through an advanced oil test. This occurs when the original base hydraulic fluid inside of your equipment begins to degrade and oxidize. This is typically identifiable by foul-smelling and dark-looking hydraulic oil. You should perform regular fluid analyses to prevent this from becoming a major issue.
- Additive depletion: Over time, the additive you place inside of your hydraulic system will deplete due to burnup and other causes. If the additive depletes too much, however, you will have to change all of the fluid inside of your hydraulic system. The best way to do this is to consult with an expert specializing in hydraulic repair in Minnesota.
Experts knowledgeable about hydraulic repair in Minnesota can help companies and individuals that rely on hydraulic equipment to be more financially efficient.
It’s exceedingly important to work with a company that offers high-quality hydraulic equipment services when addressing your hydraulic needs. M & M Hydraulic Company has been the most trusted provider of hydraulic repair in Minnesota for more than 40 years. We provide each and every one of our clients with dependable hydraulic services that ensure that their equipment remains in tip-top shape for as long as possible. If you are looking for expert assistance with your hydraulic or pneumatic gear, look no further than our expert team.