Many people underestimate the importance of cleaning and maintenance of hydraulic systems in order to prevent hydraulic fluid contamination.
That is until they get an expensive repair bill or a complete breakdown of a hydraulic system due to contaminated hydraulic oil.
With over ¾ of hydraulic faults and breakdowns from poor performance to system failure resulting from contaminants in hydraulic fluid, it is THE most likely reason that something will go wrong with your hydraulic machinery.
This article will give you the low-down on what causes hydraulic fluid contamination, what you can do to prevent it as well as what hydraulic fluid contamination means.
What is Hydraulic Fluid Contamination?
Hydraulic fluid contamination is when abrasive or non-abrasive particles or moisture get into the hydraulic fluid. Any of these can cause catastrophic failure of any hydraulic system.
What are the Sources of Hydraulic Fluid Contamination?
During Use
Wear and tear from the general use of a hydraulic system causes contamination of hydraulic fluid as the parts wear they shed particles.
During Production or “Native” Contamination
The manufacturing processes of both hydraulic equipment and of hydraulic fluid can introduce contaminants.
During Hydraulic Fluid Storage
Extreme changes in temperature can cause hydraulic fluid to ‘breathe’ which contaminates the fluid with moisture.
During Handling and Transfer
This is particularly common in dirty environments, especially if the reservoir opening is dirty or when hydraulic fluid is exposed to the elements during handling or transfer making air contamination or water contamination likely.
During Service and Maintenance
Dirty tools, dirty or shedding rags, opening closed hydraulic systems and replacing of parts can all introduce contaminants to the hydraulic system.
How to Prevent Hydraulic Fluid Contamination
Regular care, maintenance and testing of hydraulic fluid can help minimise the risks arising from hydraulic fluid contamination. Although it cannot be eliminated altogether the following list can be used to create a checklist that can help you to reduce the amounts of contaminants in your hydraulic fluid.
- Keep everything clean, both your machinery and the working environment (as far as possible). Daily cleaning and especially cleaning before any maintenance is carried out.
- Use lint-free cloths for cleaning.
- Depending on the level of use you will need to get your hydraulic fluid tested and analysed for contaminant levels at the very least annually. More frequent testing and analysis of between 2 and 6 months is recommended for hydraulic pumps that are used frequently.
- Flush the hydraulic system to remove contaminants as required including before its first use, when testing indicates it is necessary after you change or replace hydraulic fluids, following repairs or replacing parts and as part of a scheduled regular cleaning program.
- Replace filters regularly and as recommended.
- Store your hydraulic oil correctly, on its side and at a steady temperature.
- Filter your fresh hydraulic fluid before you add it to your hydraulic system.
Making Hydraulic Care and Maintenance Easy
Get in touch with our team of experts at MCH Hydraulics. We offer on-site hydraulic testing as well as regular maintenance and repairs across the Midlands.