How to Prevent Hydraulic Cylinder Fluid Contamination

Fluid contamination can occur in your hydraulic cylinders, creating potential for equipment damage or failure. Contamination occurs when water, air particles, metal, plastic, or other foreign materials find their way into the fluid through improper seals or low-quality parts. Luckily, keeping your fluid free of contaminants is a matter of regularly performing just a few steps. 

Take regular fluid samples and log their condition 

Being aware of your ongoing fluid condition is optimal to knowing what’s going on with your equipment. If your fluid suddenly becomes overly contaminated, it may be an indicator of another problem in the cylinder that needs attention. By taking regular fluid samples and logging their condition, you can also establish when your fluid may need replacing and stay ahead of the problem. 

Perform regular fluid replacement as recommended for your cylinders 

Just like an oil change in a vehicle, changing your hydraulic fluid should be routine maintenance. At minimum, this change should be performed on its recommended schedule. If you are taking regular samples as noted in the point above, you may also wish to plan ahead and change the fluid before contamination levels get too high. 

Use the correct fluid for the operating conditions 

Depending on the outside temperature when operating your equipment, you may require different fluids for varying conditions. When the weather is colder, your equipment may require a lower viscosity fluid to ensure ideal operations. Using fluid that is not intended for the current operating conditions may cause the fluid to prematurely break down and put your equipment at risk for damage or failure. 

Change your filters frequently to prevent contamination 

Stopping the contaminants before they get into your fluid is optimal. By changing your fluid filters regularly, they’ll keep your fluid running cleaner and longer. 

Ensure all parts of your hydraulic cylinder are in good condition 

Your hydraulic fluid is just one component of your hard-working hydraulic cylinders. By keeping other parts in good condition, such as seals, you’ll extend the life and cleanliness of your fluid. 

Preventative maintenance to your hydraulic cylinders is the best defense against fluid contamination, keeping your equipment operating at its best, reducing downtime and creating equipment reliability.