Hydraulic systems can be found in many pieces of equipment and machinery used across multiple industries today. Without a functional hydraulic system, these products wouldn't be able to generate the power needed to perform efficiently.

The hydraulic cylinder is one of the most critical components in a hydraulic system. Should the cylinder sustain any damage, the performance of the entire hydraulic system could be in jeopardy.

Learn more about the causes of hydraulic cylinder wear so that you will be prepared to make timely repairs to your equipment and machinery.

1. Fluid Contamination 

Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of a hydraulic system. This fluid is pressurized to help create hydraulic power. Should the hydraulic fluid in your system become contaminated, cylinder wear can occur.

Dust, chemicals, and other contaminants that find their way into your hydraulic fluid can wreak havoc on the cylinder. These contaminants can leave gouges in the surface of the hydraulic cylinder, which can allow leaks to form.

It's important that you keep all connections clean and utilize sterilized tools when working on your hydraulic system to avoid cylinder damage caused by contaminated fluid.

2. Overload

It is imperative that you understand the limitations of your hydraulic equipment and machinery. Each hydraulic cylinder is manufactured to withstand a certain amount of force. If you exceed this force, you run the risk of damaging the hydraulic cylinder.

Overloading places excessive stress on the valves and pistons within the cylinder, Eventually, the excess stress will cause these components to fail.

Valves and pistons that fail will cause wear and tear on the hydraulic cylinder itself. You will need to repair this damage before your hydraulic system can function properly once again.

3. Sideload

Many operators aren't even aware that sideload is affecting their hydraulic equipment until serious cylinder damage has occurred.

Sideload occurs when the weight of the load being lifted is not distributed evenly. One side of the load is heavier than the other, which creates a lot of additional stress on that side of the load.

Sideload can be eliminated by ensuring there is adequate contact between the saddle and the load itself. A tilting saddle can effectively eliminate sideload.

In the event that sideload has caused your hydraulic cylinder to warp or bend, the cylinder will need to be replaced before your hydraulic system can function properly.

The more you know about the causes of hydraulic cylinder damage, the easier it will be for you to protect your hydraulic system in the future.

Contact hydraulic cylinder repair services for more info.