Lack of maintenance of hydraulic systems is the leading cause of component and system failure yet most maintenance personnel don't understand proper maintenance techniques of a hydraulic system. At California Hydrostatics has a full line of hydraulic components.

The basic foundation to perform proper maintenance on a hydraulic system has two areas of concern. The first area is Preventive Maintenance which is key to the success of any maintenance program whether in hydraulics or any equipment which we need reliability. The second area is corrective maintenance, which in many cases can cause additional hydraulic component failure when it is not performed to standard.

No matter what kind of hydraulic system you use, there are a few critical components that you must keep well maintained in order for it to run properly.

Actuators

A hydraulic actuator consists of a cylinder or fluid motor that uses hydraulic power to facilitate mechanical operation. The mechanical motion gives an output in terms of linear, rotary or oscillatory motion. Because liquids are nearly impossible to compress, a hydraulic actuator can exert considerable force. The hydraulic cylinder consists of a hollow cylindrical tube along which a piston can slide. The term single acting is used when the fluid pressure is applied to just one side of the piston. The piston can move in only one direction, a spring being frequently used to give the piston a return stroke. The term double acting is used when pressure is applied on each side of the piston; any difference in pressure between the two sides of the piston moves the piston to one side or the other.

Pumps

The pumps convert mechanical energy into fluid power energy. All hydraulic pumps are positive displacement which means the outlet flow is sealed from the inlet flow. A small amount of fluid is designed to leak internally to lubricate and cool the internal components of the pump. The only function of the pump is to produce flow in a system. The amount of resistance and or load induced on the system determines pressure. If a pump flow is directed back to the reservoir without restrictions, no pressure will be developed. If a load or restriction is introduced to the pump flow, the pressure will rise to overcome the resistance. Hydraulic pumps can be grouped into two classes: fixed and variable displacement.

Directional Valves

Directional Control Valves (DCVs) are one of the most fundamental parts of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. DCVs allow fluid flow (hydraulic oil, water or air) into different paths from one or more sources. DCVs will usually consist of a spool inside a cylinder which is mechanically or electrically actuated. The position of the spool restricts or permits flow, thus it controls the fluid flow.

Other Accessories

There are several other critical components to keep your system running well, including accumulators, hydraulic fluid, tubes, pipes, filters, hoses, fittings, seals, and connections. Each one plays a role in ensuring your system continues running smoothly and produces the power you need for your business.