There are many types of power systems. There is the pneumatic power, mechanical and hydraulic power. Unfortunately, nothing delivers as much power as a hydraulic power system. This system uses compressed fluid to transfer force from one place to another. The system consist of an oil reservoir, hydraulic pump, fluid pipes, hydraulic cylinder, valves and controls. The function of the hydraulic pump is it compress the fluid, which is almost incompressible. The result is immense pressure inside the fluid lines. The pressurized fluid is usually delivered to the hydraulic cylinder where it pushes the piston with great force. The piston usually has an oil seal around it to prevent fluid pressure from escaping to the other side. Over time, however, the hydraulic cylinder and its components will develop problems, and require prompt repairs. When in need of hydraulic cylinder repair service, you will need to look for a reliable engineering firm to offer the required service.
Common Hydraulic Cylinder Problems
i) Worn Out Oil Seal
This is a major problem as it will lead to power losses. The force you will get at the other end of the piston will not be commensurate to fluid pressure. This is because fluid pressure will find relief around the damaged seal. If the seal is not replaced, the performance of the hydraulic system will reduce considerably. To replace the seal, the cylinder is simply opened up and the old seal removed. The exact make and model of seal is then installed as a replacement.
ii) Bent Piston Rod
Poor use of the hydraulic system may lead to bending of the piston rod. As a result, it may become difficult to move the piston inside the cylinder. Furthermore, there will be a lot of wear and tear inside the cylinder. In addition to that, there will be power losses as some of the force produced by the system will go towards dislodging the piston from the cylinder walls. In such a case, the piston rod can either be removed and straightened or replaced altogether.
iii) Damaged Return Spring
When dealing with a single acting hydraulic cylinder, you should know that there is a powerful spring that returns the piston into place after the fluid action. If the spring loses its compression, or tension, depending on cylinder design, you will have to replace it. Otherwise, the piston will not be ready for the next cycle.
iv) Damaged Interior
If for some reason the interior wall of the cylinder is rough and leaks fluid, boring may be done to smooth the inner walls or a larger seal may be installed. Whatever the case, a competent mechanical engineering firm is able to provide an effective remedy for any type of problem.
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