DISCOVER THE ART OF HYDRAULIC CYLINDER MAINTENANCE

Hydraulic cylinders are some of the most hard-working components in any operation. We ask a lot of these simple actuators. They are often required to run at high-duty cycles, with extreme pressure loads in tough environments. There are many reasons for a hydraulic cylinder to fail: fluid contamination, seal failure, bent or scored piston rods, deformed cylinder tubes, corrosion, worn tolerances, internal leakage or lack of lubricant...

All cylinders inevitably lose performance over time, sometimes even failing completely. However, it is possible to keep the cylinders running and cut costs in the long run! All you need is the right maintenance, discipline and attention to the important things. TVH helps you spot issues before they become major headaches. And when things go wrong, you can count on us to provide you with the information to get your cylinders back to peak performance!
 

Regular maintenance is essential to prevent premature wear and to keep efficiency high. There are several vital steps to consider:

1. Fluid Inspection and Replacement: The hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of the system. Regularly check fluid levels, quality, and cleanliness. Contaminated or degraded fluid can lead to accelerated wear. Replace the fluid as recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Seal Inspection: The seals in your hydraulic cylinder play a critical role in preventing leaks and maintaining proper pressure. Check for signs of wear, cracks, or damage in the seals. Replacing worn seals immediately can prevent more extensive damage.
3. Lubrication: Ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated to reduce friction and wear. Follow manufacturer guidelines for lubrication frequency and type.
4. Rod and Barrel Inspection: Regularly inspect the rod and barrel for signs of corrosion, pitting, or scoring. Damaged surfaces can lead to seal damage and fluid leakage.
5. Pressure and Performance Testing: Periodically test the cylinder's pressure and performance to identify any deviations from the norm. This can help detect issues before they become major problems.

Time to get proactive. Recognising the signs of wear enables you to address potential issues before they become a problem. There are several common symptoms and their underlying causes:

1. Fluid Leakage: Leaking hydraulic fluid is often a sign of damaged seals or improper installation. Over time, leaks can lead to decreased performance and increased wear.
2. Slow or Uneven Movement: If your hydraulic cylinder's movement becomes sluggish or uneven, it could be due to worn seals, fluid contamination, or damaged components.
3. Abnormal Noise: Unusual noises during operation, such as knocking or grinding, may indicate internal damage or misalignment.
4. Reduced Load-Bearing Capacity: A decrease in the cylinder's ability to handle loads could be caused by worn seals, inadequate lubrication, or damaged components.
5. Excessive Heat: Overheating can result from fluid contamination, inadequate cooling, or excessive friction within the cylinder.

Rely on TVH to support you in maintaining your hydraulic cylinder assemblies. Thanks to our extensive experience and commitment to quality, we can offer the following benefits to our valued customers:

• Comprehensive Product Range: Get access to the best solutions for your maintenance needs with our comprehensive range of hydraulic cylinder parts. This includes seals, rods, barrels, fluids ...
• Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable team of experts can provide guidance on proper maintenance practices, troubleshooting issues, and selecting the right components for your specific application.
• Quality Assurance: TVH's products are sourced from reputable manufacturers and undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure reliability and longevity.
• Timely Availability: We understand the importance of minimising downtime. With a global network of distribution centres, we strive to deliver the parts you need quickly, reducing operational disruptions.
• Educational Resources: TVH offers educational resources, such as training materials and technical documentation, to help you better understand hydraulic cylinder maintenance and optimise your equipment's performance.

Proper maintenance of hydraulic cylinder assemblies is essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance. 

By following recommended maintenance practices, being vigilant for symptoms of wear, and partnering with a trusted source like us, you can:

• extend the lifespan of your hydraulic systems
• reduce downtime
• enhance overall operational efficiency

Remember, TVH is dedicated to providing top-quality components and expert guidance to support your hydraulic cylinder maintenance needs.