Controlling hydraulic fluid contamination involves preventing external particles from entering the system and removing particles generated internally.
During daily operations, hydraulic fluid contamination is bound to occur. Implementing careful practices when the system is open and utilizing effective filtration are key strategies.
Key Methods for Controlling Hydraulic Fluid Contamination
Based on best practices and considerations during system maintenance, controlling hydraulic fluid contamination focuses on preventing ingress and managing internal particles.
Here are the primary ways to control contamination:
1. Practice Cleanliness When Opening the System
Whenever you open a closed hydraulic system, such as when connecting or disconnecting hoses, extreme care must be taken to keep hoses and fittings clean and free of debris. This is a critical step to prevent external contaminants like dirt, dust, or moisture from entering the sensitive system.
- Practical Steps:
- Clean the area around connections before opening.
- Cap open ports and hoses immediately.
- Wipe fittings clean before connecting.
2. Use Appropriate Cleaning Materials
When wiping down parts or cleaning spills near the system, it is a good idea to use lint-free rags. Standard rags can shed fibers that, while seemingly insignificant, can become contaminants within the hydraulic fluid, potentially clogging fine tolerances or filters.
- Why Lint-Free?
- Minimizes introduction of fiber particles.
- Ensures cleaner surfaces without leaving residue.
3. Implement and Maintain Filtration
To prevent any internally generated contamination (such as wear particles from pumps or valves) from circulating and causing further damage, be sure to use and maintain filters. Filters are the primary defense against particles already inside the system.
- Filtration Best Practices:
- Select filters with appropriate micron ratings for the system's components.
- Install filters in key locations (e.g., return line, pressure line, off-line filtration).
- Regularly check and replace filter elements according to manufacturer recommendations or fluid analysis results.
- Consider condition monitoring technologies to track filter performance and fluid cleanliness levels.
By diligently following these practices – maintaining cleanliness during external interactions, using appropriate cleaning materials, and ensuring robust, well-maintained filtration – you can significantly control hydraulic fluid contamination, prolonging the life and efficiency of the hydraulic system components.
