Hydraulic Seal Failures

Often hidden from view, hydraulic cylinders are the tireless workhorses powering a vast array of industrial and mechanical applications. Engineered for the toughest conditions, they're built to endure. However, even these reliable components require consistent maintenance to ensure peak performance and prevent unexpected downtime. Neglecting upkeep, or performing it incorrectly, inevitably leads to premature failure.

To ensure your hydraulic system operates at peak efficiency, it's essential to recognize the common causes of breakdowns.

The four most common causes of hydraulic cylinder failure are:

Fluid Contamination: A major offender, contamination introduces foreign particles that damage cylinder bores and accelerate component wear. Liquid contaminants induce oxidation and corrosion, pitting critical surfaces. The result? Degraded seals and fittings, leading to leaks, sticking, and compromised functionality.

Seal Failure: Critical for maintaining pressure and preventing leaks, seals are vulnerable to heat, installation errors, pressure surges, and contamination. Damaged seals result in a progressive decline in cylinder performance, necessitating replacement.

Extreme Temperatures: Temperature extremes severely impact cylinder seals. Heat causes seals to deform and lose effectiveness, while cold renders them inelastic and prone to cracking. Additionally, temperature-induced viscosity changes in the hydraulic fluid result in leakage, accelerated wear, and potential system breakdowns.

Overpressurizing: Operating hydraulic cylinders beyond their designed pressure limits leads to severe consequences: bulging barrels, dislodged snap rings, and hazardous operating conditions. Strict adherence to pressure specifications is essential for safety and equipment integrity.

Selecting the correct seals for hydraulic cylinders requires careful consideration of specific design parameters. The optimal seal for your application depends on a thorough understanding of operating conditions. Before making any seal selections, investigate the fluid pressure and temperature ranges, stroke speed, fluid type and viscosity, hardware dimensions, and cylinder application and environment.

For expert guidance, or if you have any uncertainties, please don't hesitate to contact our office and consult with one of our dedicated seal specialists.