Many Hands Make Light Work: A Construction Blog

There are two types of pressure leaks that are caused by opposite ends of the spectrum. However, both high pressure leaks and low pressure leaks can be dangerous and give you the need to complete hydraulic repairs. Below you will find the causes, symptoms, and solutions for both.

High Pressure Leaks

While high pressure leakage is not as common as it was before the latest generation of hydraulic cylinders were produced, it can still occur when the pressure on the piston within the cylinder escalates. If the flow of the cylinder is being restricted, the seal of the rod will experience much greater pressure than it can handle. While a one-time operation with said conditions will not damage your hydraulic cylinder, multiple operations will cause the seal and/or rod cartridge to become extremely worn.

The symptoms of a high pressure leak are extreme liquid leakage. By looking inside, you may see the worn out appearance of the metal parts that have been rubbed. They may appear thinner or have lost their ridges due to the excessive friction. The seal cartridges may stop working; however, the number and severity of the symptoms will vary. Because this problem is caused by restriction to the flow of the cylinder, the restriction needs to be removed. A specific gland design can reduce the extra space and cause the gap within the cylinder to be reduced, so the seal can resist the higher pressure and still function well.

Low Pressure Leaks

If you do not have polyurethane rod seals, you are more likely to experience a low pressure leak. The pressure may be uneven, with the back pressure too low in comparison to the front. To fix this problem, you will need to elevate the back pressure.

You will know if this problem is based on the constant wetness of the rod; it will have a light coating of oil. While the rod wiper may be damaged, the other parts do not demonstrate leaking. If these symptoms are experienced, you should raise the back pressure, not to be equal with the front pressure, simply to be a bit higher than it was before. Experiment to see which back pressure best work for your hydraulic cylinder. Some of the seals, if loaded, may express a bit higher friction levels. Once you have found the back level pressure that helps your machine run smoothly, you will not experience anymore low pressure leaks. 

For more information, contact companies like Afkos Industries.