A hydraulic cylinder is a device which uses pressurized liquid to generate force in a linear motion. Hydraulic cylinders are used in many different industries, from automotive and agricultural to construction and industrial. While they are reliable pieces of equipment, they can still experience breakdowns due to wear and tear or improper maintenance. Knowing the signs of a potential breakdown can help you take steps to prevent further damage.
Hydraulic cylinder breakdowns generally start with noise or vibration coming from the cylinder during operation. This noise is usually caused by air bubbles in the system, or an increase in internal pressure that could be caused by an obstruction such as dirt or rust getting into the system. In some cases, you may also notice leaks around seals on the cylinders where pressurized fluid is escaping from cracks or worn down areas. In addition, slow operation of your hydraulic system could indicate buildup of debris inside the pipes that block fluid flow through them, resulting in reduced performance and risk of failure if not addressed quickly enough.