Even if we don’t notice them, hydraulic systems are all around us. However, these systems occasionally experience malfunctions for several causes. When this occurs, it can be quite problematic and prevent progress from being made. We want you to comprehend the causes of hydraulic system failure.

How Does the Hydraulic System Work?

An electric motor, the pump, the control valves, the motor, and the load are the five crucial components of hydraulic systems. Together, these parts enable the system to operate. Here are the key parts of a hydraulic system:

• An electric motor (often the driver) drives the hydraulic pump.
• The reservoir holds hydraulic fluid.
• The hydraulic pump pushes the fluid and converts energy.
• Valves control the fluid flow and release extra pressure if needed.
• The hydraulic cylinder changes energy back into mechanical power.
  
  There are different hydraulic systems, but they all have the same main parts and work in a similar way.

What is Hydraulic Failure?

When a hydraulic system breaks, figuring out what’s wrong can be tough. The issue could come from any part of the system: the reservoir, motor, pump, valves, actuators, or hydraulic fluid. Plus, human mistakes and bad maintenance can also lead to failure.

Common Cause of Hydraulic System Failure

Indicators of a failing hydraulic system include high temperatures, low-pressure readings, and sluggish or unpredictable performance. Most hydraulic problems have one of the following common causes, which are:

1- Water Contamination

Water contamination in hydraulic fluid can be a serious threat. It can affect the hydraulic fluid’s ability to work as a lubricant and lead to corrosion and sludge formation. Water can even cause cavitation in the machine’s pump, which is expensive to fix.

2- Temperature Problems

Running too hot or too cold might harm hydraulic systems. Here is what might occur:

Fluid oxidation: Too much heat can cause hydraulic fluid to oxidize and thicken. This can restrict flow and reduce the system’s ability to dissipate heat.

Fluid thickening: Low temperatures increase the viscosity of hydraulic oil, making it harder for the oil to reach the pump, and this can result in cavitation damage in systems when loads are applied before the oil reaches 70 degrees or above.

3- Human Error

Human error is a common cause of hydraulic failures. Some common errors that can lead to your hydraulic pump not building pressure include:

• Faulty installations: Improper installation of any component in a hydraulic system can cause severe errors, like the pump shaft rotating in the wrong direction or incorrectly fitted pipes.
• Incompatible parts: Inexperienced installers may put mismatched components together, resulting in functional failures.

4- Heat Aging and Weathering

Overheating of hoses can cause thermal expansion, leading to premature aging of the hose material, increased brittleness, and potential failure. To prevent overheating, ensure proper fluid levels and a well-functioning cooling system.

5- Incorrect Assembly and Broken Fittings

If hoses in the hydraulic system aren’t assembled correctly, the system can fail. Common assembly mistakes include not inserting fittings to the right depths within the hose. Ill-fitted components can detach and create system failure. Using hose inspection depth blocks can prevent overextension and ensure a secure system.

6- Fluid Quality and Level

Fluid quality and level can affect hydraulic system performance. Low fluid levels and inappropriate filtration can cause air contamination, while fluid contamination can cause temperature problems. Leaks can exacerbate both issues. Using the correct type of fluid is essential, as certain hydraulic oils are compatible with specific applications.

When to Seek Professional Help?

When you come across cracked fittings, replace the hydraulic hose assemblies, especially if red rust is present, showing corrosion. If your RV hydraulic system fails, call for professional help. It’s challenging to pinpoint the causes of system problems, but basic hydraulic troubleshooting techniques can help reduce the possibilities. Let’s start with some basics.

Verify the motor: Make sure the motor can switch on and off and has the proper wiring.

Verify the pump: Disassemble the pump assembly and check each component to make sure it is in good working order and is placed properly.

Examine the fluids: Verify the hydraulic oil’s level, color, and viscosity to make sure it adheres to specifications and has not been polluted. Pressure loss or power loss are examples of low hydraulic fluid symptoms. Drain and replace the fluids if in doubt.

Conclusion

To prevent hydraulic system failures, regular maintenance is crucial. Follow daily, monthly, and annual maintenance procedures to thoroughly inspect all aspects of your system, catching issues early on. When purchasing new equipment, collaborate with industry professionals to ensure seamless compatibility with your existing equipment. By staying proactive and vigilant, you can reduce the likelihood of RV hydraulic system failures and enjoy trouble-free journeys. Reach out to Elite Mobile RV today for professional maintenance and repair services, ensuring a seamless and safe travel experience.