Industries ranging from construction and manufacturing to waste management and the military use equipment with hydraulic cylinders for various applications. To ensure your apparatuses remain functional, learn to recognize the following common problems with hydraulic cylinders.

5 Problems With Hydraulic Cylinders

1. Bearing & Piston Rod Damage

When there is poor alignment between the load and the cylinder, bending can occur, which can damage rod bearings and piston rods. If the hydraulic cylinder is forced to handle a load more than its specification or the system receives a harsh impact from too much pressure, eye bearings can break, leading to cylinder failure.

2. Leaking Seals

Anything from incorrect fitting to corrosion and rusting can lead to seals breaking down. Once seals are compromised, the system will usually leak.

3. Fluid Contamination

If the fluid inside the cylinder is contaminated, the seal will fail. Usually, particles in the fluid will damage the piston rod or seal. If contamination comes from the outside, a faulty wiper seal is often to blame for allowing particles inside the system.

4. Corrosion on the Barrel

Contaminated fluid goes beyond damaging seals and rods. In some cases, it can corrode the inside of the barrel. While blocking the water ingress inside the cylinder can stop this problem, in some cases, the environment in which the cylinder is used causes the corrosion.

5. Improper Pressure

Pressure inside the hydraulic cylinder must be precise. When the pressure gets too high or too low, the device will not perform correctly and may sustain damage. If the pressure is a consistent issue, replacement may be necessary.

If you’re looking for supplies like hydraulic cylinders, gaskets, valves, and custom hoses, D & M Hydraulics Sales & Services is a top choice. Located in Waipahu, HI, since 1983, the company provides 24-hour services and competitive pricing on their impressive inventory. To learn more about their products, call (808) 671-2420 or visit their website.