Hydraulic seals are a common topic when it comes to repairing hydraulics in Houston, TX. They are often the first parts to wear out in your equipment, and yet they are the most important. The best way to preserve them is to keep your equipment well-tuned and replace them before they completely give out on you, which can be a disaster if you are in the middle of a job. Here is an overview of what they are and how they work for your equipment.
Smallpart, large job
Hydraulic seals cover the openings between various components in hydraulic equipment. As you likely know, your equipment will not run if fluid levels are not maintained,and you will likely burn out motors or wear out parts. The seals keep the fluid in place and prevent leaks that could compromise your equipment.
A heavy-duty hydraulic cylinder contains eight seals. They include the buffer seal, head static seal, wiper seal, rod seal, piston static seal and piston seal. Each seal maintains fluid in each component of the cylinder as your equipment operates. Leaks will either compromise efficiency or lead to expensive repairs.
Maintaining hydraulic seals
Hydraulic seals are so essential that you will likely pay more attention to them than to any other components of your equipment. Understand that they will have a life cycle,and mark when replacement could be necessary. You want to be on time with this maintenance so your equipment continues functioning well.
Heavy use or misuse can damage seals quicker than their usual life cycle. Train workers on your equipment thoroughly,and show them how to maintain hydraulic fluid. Have a system for reporting leaks so they can be addressed as soon as possible. You may need to replace seals early or,at the very least, repair the issue that is leading to their quick demise.
When it is time to replace seals, you will likely either need them customized to your equipment or be able to find them in stock. Many hydraulic specialists keep a full stock of common hydraulic seals or will come to your site to repair cylinders and replace the seals. That is usually the only option if wear and tear occurs on large equipment. If the equipment requires customized seals, ask your trusted hydraulic specialist to order them for you so you receive seals with the right specifications. Otherwise, you risk paying for something that does not work with your equipment.
Failure to maintain seals could mean rebuilding your equipment,which is often expensive. Generally speaking, if you take care of your seals,they will ensure your equipment performs well and your projects finish without incident.
Advance Hydraulics, LLC is available for repairing hydraulics in Houston, TX, as well as for consultations if it is time to replace your hydraulic seals. We offer a service-oriented approach in which our knowledgeable employees can assist you through every step of maintaining your hydraulic equipment. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.