Hydraulic pressure is used to do everyday tasks such as stopping a car, lifting heavy objects, and watering your plants. They are pressure-fed systems that push out liquid through a tube or hose, then use pressure to get the job done.
Hydraulic pressure is also used in many industrial machines that are required to perform their functions accurately. From pressure transducers to pressure switches, pressure gauges, or indicators, hydraulic pressure systems are so complex that even the smallest of faults can have serious consequences.
Common problems with hydraulic pressure include low pressure, lack of pressure, erratic pressure readings, leaking valves, and faulty sensors. Low pressure means the machine is malfunctioning due to not enough power behind it — kind of like running into a brick.
The following are common problems with hydraulic systems, along with reasons for their occurrence and ways to rectify them:
Mismatch in Pressure
This happens when pressure on one side is higher than the pressure on the other side. This may be a result of faulty pressure valves, pressure switches, or pressure sensors. It can also be because of changes in system pressure over time – which is common with fluctuating weather conditions as well as deteriorated seals and gaskets. In this case, it is best to replace said component as soon as possible.
Leaking Valves
This can occur due to many reasons such as low pressure from undersized components, debris in the tank causing valve sticking, and degradation of O-rings permitting leakage through piston rod packing glands. A great way to identify whether valves are leaking is by looking into the tank for any signs of wetness. If valves are leaking, check the pressure on each side of the valve to see whether pressure readings above and below match. A pressure gauge should be installed in line to monitor pressure levels. To resolve this problem, clean out dirt that may have caused sticking or replace seals and O-rings.
Erratic pressure readings
Erratic pressure readings can be due to incorrect calibration or faulty sensor reading. Other causes include changes in system pressure over time caused by weather conditions as well as deteriorated seals and gaskets allowing for leakage through piston rod packing glands. The solution is to replace components like pressure valves and pressure switches or load cells and pressure sensors.
Broken pipe thread seal
Broken pipe thread seal can be caused by overtightening, resulting in deformation of sealing surface, an incorrect installation where pipe threads are not formed properly, etc. These problems can be resolved by replacing pressure valves and pressure switches.
The most appropriate way to address common problems with hydraulic pressure is by having pressure gauges or indicators fitted in all hydraulic components like pumps, cylinders, valves to monitor pressure levels. Contact Instruments deals in all types of pressure gauges to ensure proper machine function. We also conduct pressure testing on components like oil-free air receivers, control systems, hydraulic reservoirs and pumps, etc., at our state-of-the-art facility. Get in touch with us today for more information.