10 Things to note when hydraulic joints leak

Leakage of hydraulic joints in the hydraulic system is inevitable. When inspecting, repairing or replacing, you need to pay attention to the following 10 points. Otherwise, it could have incalculably serious consequences.

1. Do not use your hands to check for leaks. Hydraulic oil temperatures can often reach 150°F or higher, which can quickly cause severe burns. In addition, manual contact with high-flow needle leakage fluid can have disastrous consequences.

2. Do not try to solve the leakage problem by just tightening the nut. There are only a few cases where liquid leakage is caused by loose nuts. Over-tightening will destroy the integrity of the joint and is one of the common causes of joint leakage.

3. Do not inspect the system under pressure. Before performing the inspection, be sure to relieve the pressure on the system. This should be done even if the liquid drips slowly. Releasing the pressure can reduce the risk of sudden hydraulic oil injection of mechanical components during inspection.

4. Do not replace connectors of different types to save time/cost. Make sure to replace connectors of the same type. Replacement with a similar connector at will is one of the causes of failure.

5. Don’t always doubt the joint. The oil dripping point may not be the leakage point. The liquid dripping occurs at the point. Although the liquid may drip at the joint position, the actual leakage point may be in other parts.

6. Do not reuse O-rings. When reassembling reusable joints, O-rings should be replaced in time. O-rings are prone to cracks, which may damage the sealing performance of the system during repeated assembly.

7. When repairing leaks, don’t forget to protect the open system. When repairing leaks, if you throw the disassembled joints on the ground and then reinstall them, contaminants will be brought into the hydraulic system and the use of the equipment will be shortened. life.

8. When replacing or replacing the joint, don’t forget to clean the connecting end. This will help prevent dirt and metal burrs from entering the hydraulic system. These particles can damage expensive hydraulic components.

9. No open flames. All open flames should be kept away from the leakage point, including lit cigarettes, and lighters for lighting and welding nearby.

10. Do not ignore any issues. Even a small leak can be a sign of a more serious problem with the hydraulic system.