When Replacing Seals On A Hydraulic Cylinder, Check For Problems And Routine Wear
Replacing worn seals on a hydraulic cylinder is a fairly simple repair. When replacing worn out cylinders, however, make sure to check for problems and routine wear. If you find a cylinder has more serious issues or wear, you should contact a company that offers hydraulic cylinder repair services to fix the larger problems. If you don't, the cylinder may malfunction even after you replace its seal. Here are some specific issues you should look for while replacing seals on a hydraulic cylinder.
Check for Major Problems If Replacing Seals Constantly
If a hydraulic cylinders seals are frequently failing, there may be an underlying issue that's causing the seals to malfunction. The issue may be any of three different potential problems, depending on the seal.
First, if the piston seal is missing, look for a bulge in the piston barrel. A seal could have gotten stuck in the barrel and bent its casing, in which case the piston would need to be replaced.
Second, if the rod seal keeps failing, the rod probably is bent. You'll likely need a new rod, as well as a new seal.
Finally, If the cylinder is fine but you constantly replace a seal, you might be accidentally installing the wrong-sized seal. Measure the place the seal goes, rather than the seal itself, to see what size you should be using. A seal may have shrunk. If you've always ordered a new seal based on the current's seal size, you might actually be getting a seal that's too small.
Check for Routine Wear Anytime You Replace a Seal
Anytime you replace a seal in a hydraulic cylinder, regardless of whether it's occasionally or frequently, you should look for routine wear. While you have the cylinder apart and the seal off, it's a great time to do the following:
- check the rod for cracks
- look at the rod's finish for scoring or scratching
- make sure the rod and piston casing are straight
If you notice any of these issues, they should be fixed by a knowledgeable hydraulic cylinder repair technician.
Whenever you replace seals on a hydraulic cylinder, make sure to check for each of these issues. The checks only take a moment, and you might notice a developing problem that requires professional attention from a company like Hurst Hydraulics. If you do, you may be able to get it repaired before the potential issue causes a complete malfunction that's worse than the seal's leak.