Hydraulic powered machinery servicing – What you need to know

If you use hydraulic systems to power your on-site, industrial, and/or mobile equipment, you’ll know just how powerful these work-horses can be. What you’ll also know is that a hydraulic system is robust, but also very refined, requiring careful servicing and maintenance. One small error can cause the entire system to fail, costing you time and money. So let’s talk about hydraulic system servicing, what you can expect to see and what to watch for, so you can ensure your equipment and machinery is in top shape for work.

What is a hydraulic system?

A hydraulic system is identified as a system using hydraulic liquids (such as water or mineral oil) to create power within a piece of machinery, vehicle, or equipment. It works by forcing liquid from one cylinder (the master) to another (the slave). Hydraulic systems are known for being able to drive intense power, therefore are used widely to power large machinery for industrial, mobile, and mining applications, as well as smaller types of machinery in many cases.

Hydraulic systems can be used alongside a diesel motor, for example in the case of a track loader, which may have a diesel engine, however separate hydraulic systems will be used to move the tracks, raise and lower the bucket, as well as rotate it.

Examples of hydraulic machinery and systems

• Backhoes
• Cranes
• Log-splitters
• Jacks
• Vehicle and machinery brakes
• Excavators
• Power steering systems
• Transmissions
• Garbage trucks
• Lifts
• Aircraft flight control systems
• Tractors
• Loaders and diggers

What to watch for when servicing hydraulic systems

When it comes to hydraulic systems, it’s important to not only consider the system itself and how it functions, but also the protection of each component that makes up the hydraulic system. Using the right type of fluid within the hydraulic system is vital also as the wrong type can cause failure of the machinery.

When your mechanic checks the hydraulic system, they will be checking components such as seals, lubricants, pump efficiency, coolers, valves, cylinders and the effectiveness of compression and power transfer. It’s important to ensure each part is in working order to extend the efficiency of your machinery as well as the life of your equipment.

Resistance to overheating and combustion is also an important element. Different fluids may have different boiling and combustion points, and if one component of your hydraulic system is not in place, if fluid has been contaminated, or if a part is not functioning correctly, it can cause the whole system to fail.

Professional diesel engine servicing and repairs

In order to avoid major or minor issues with your hydraulic machinery, it’s important to ensure you are performing regular servicing. This will also help to maintain the life and performance of the system and machinery. Due to the nature of some of the machinery which utilises hydraulic power, it can be difficult to physically take it to a service mechanic. It’s much more convenient and practical to have a mobile hydraulic systems mechanic come to you.

At Perth-based Diesel West Mechanical Services, we provide high quality commercial mobile servicing and repairs throughout the metro area and beyond. Our qualified diesel and hydraulic mechanics are experts at fault diagnosis and repair and have extensive experience working with hydraulics and fluid power.

For mobile diesel and hydraulic mechanical services in the Perth area, contact Diesel West today on 0427 501 378.