Wear and seal life

23 Dec.,2024

 

Wear and seal life

Because of their differing designs, and because they are produced from different materials, sealing systems have varying behaviour patterns at increasing operating pressures.

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When a hard material is used the danger of damage by compression is reduced. On the other hand, a hard material does not have such good sealing characteristics as a soft material, particularly at low operating pressures.

For the best sealing system, effective at high and low operating pressures, a seal constructed from several types of material with different properties is needed. The ideal would be a solid seal made from several materials, having an increasing hardness and reaching a maximum hardness in the rear section of the seal space, where a gap occurs.

However, it is not practicable to achieve this fully although our designs of seals are constructed on a multi-stage principle in an attempt to approach the ideal.
Seals lose their ability to function because of normal wear to the seal material. This is greatest at the instant of starting and at low speeds, and also through erosion of the seal material when the pressurizing fluid flows over the sealing surface and impinges on an area of deterioration.

The first indication is seen at low pressure when, because of wear, the seal is no longer capable of maintaining the required contact with the sealing surface. At high pressure, because the deformation is greater, sealing may continue to be adequate so long as the pressure is maintained.

The life of a seal cannot be predicted in exact terms because it depends on many factors starting with a suitable choice of seal for the job and correct installation. Wear can then be aggravated by lack of lubrication, shaft irregularities, excessive frictional heat, a seal compound which is too soft, ect. The normal life expectancy of seals will also vary considerably from one application to another as acceptable conditions and even the type of seal recommended differ widely.

If the life of a seal is significantly less than average for a particular application, then it is probable that an unsuitable seal was chosen in the first place and that the operating conditions turned out to be more severe than was expected when the seal was chosen.
Seal wear is heavily dependent on the finish of the surface against which the seal rubs, this in turn being determined, to a large extent, by the production method.

The figure illustrates this for typical hydraulic cylinders with three different finishes. Seal wear here is graded visually from 0 for no apparent wear, to 10 for a worn out seal. These particular figures were taken after 100.000 cycles of cylinder operation at a working pressure of 250 bar.
A significant factor relative to the above is that with the burnished tube seal wear was largely unaffected by surface finish throughout the range 0.08 μm to 0.7 μm; but rather more so in the case of cold hammered tubes with surface ranging from 0.4 μm to 1.25 μm.

Hydraulic Cylinder Rebuild: The Cylinder Repair Guide

  1. Fluid Contamination: If you notice the hydraulic fluid is dirty, cloudy, or contains debris, it suggests fluid contamination and potential cylinder issues.

If you observe any of these signs, it is crucial to address the problem promptly to prevent further damage to the hydraulic cylinder and the entire system.

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How Much Does It Cost to Rebuild a Hydraulic Cylinder?

The cost of rebuilding a hydraulic cylinder can vary depending on several factors. These include the size and type of the cylinder, the extent of damage or wear, and the availability of replacement parts. The cost of rebuilding frequently amounts to over £. However, it is important to note that these are estimated costs and may vary based on individual circumstances and specific requirements.

Overall, this is why it is imperative for a workshop to invest in high-quality hydraulic cylinder repair tools. This area will be covered later in the article.

Is It Easy to Rebuild a Hydraulic Cylinder?

Rebuilding a hydraulic cylinder requires technical expertise and specialised knowledge. While it is possible for experienced professionals or skilled individuals to rebuild hydraulic cylinders, it is not considered a simple task for beginners. The process involves disassembling the cylinder, assessing the components, cleaning or replacing damaged parts, reassembling the cylinder, and conducting thorough testing to ensure proper functioning.

Moreover, working with hydraulic systems requires adherence to safety protocols and precautions. Mishandling hydraulic components can lead to injuries or further damage to the equipment. Therefore, it is recommended to consult professional hydraulic cylinder rebuilding services or seek expert guidance when considering a rebuild.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Hydraulic Cylinder?

The life expectancy of a hydraulic cylinder depends on various factors, including the operating conditions, the quality of maintenance, and the workload it handles. On average, hydraulic cylinders are designed to have a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years. However, this can vary significantly depending on the specific application, the frequency of use, and the level of maintenance and care provided.

It&#;s important to note that certain industries or environments, such as heavy machinery, construction, or marine applications, may subject hydraulic cylinders to more demanding conditions, leading to potential wear and shorter lifespans. Regular inspection, maintenance, and timely rebuilding can help extend the life expectancy of hydraulic cylinders and ensure optimal performance.

What Tools Are Used for Rebuilding Hydraulic Cylinders?

Moreover, rebuilding hydraulic cylinders requires a range of specialised tools and equipment to disassemble, clean, repair, and reassemble the components. Here are some commonly used tools:

Cylinder Honing Machines

Cylinder honing machines are used to restore the smoothness and roundness of the cylinder bore, removing any scratches, imperfections, or wear. This process ensures proper sealing and reduces friction between the piston and cylinder wall. Learn about cylinder honing.

Hydraulic Presses and Pullers

Hydraulic presses and pullers are utilised for safe and efficient disassembly and assembly of hydraulic cylinder components. They provide the necessary force to remove or install pistons, rods, and other parts, ensuring accuracy and minimising the risk of damage. Also, you can view HEMS&#;s cylinder repair range, which includes a track press, pin puller, and dual action press.

Seal Installation Tools

Seal installation tools are designed to facilitate the proper installation of seals, O-rings, and gaskets in hydraulic cylinders. These tools help ensure a secure and leak-free seal, essential for optimal cylinder performance.

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