How do you properly maintain a hydraulic pump?

Hydraulic pumps are some of the most important components in all kinds of machinery, such as excavators, forklift trucks and agricultural machinery. In order for hydraulic pumps to operate efficiently and last as long as possible, it is important to carry out regular maintenance. In this article, we outline some basic rules to help you maintain your hydraulic pump properly.

1 Changing the oil regularly

Hydraulic oil is one of the most important components in a hydraulic system. Changing the oil regularly is crucial for the proper operation of the hydraulic pump. It is recommended to carry out an oil change every 500-1000 operating hours (depending on the machine model and operating conditions). It is also worth paying attention to the quality of the oil - use oil of the correct grade and specification, as recommended by the manufacturer.

2 Checking the oil level

Checking the oil level regularly is crucial to the proper operation of the hydraulic pump. It is recommended to check the oil level every 50-100 hours of operation or once a week. It is also worth noting the colour of the oil - if it is dark or contaminated, it should be changed.

3 Checking the pressure

Checking the pressure in the hydraulic system is important to ensure that the hydraulic pump is operating correctly. It is recommended to measure the pressure every 500 operating hours or quarterly. It is also a good idea to look at the pressure differences between the various components of the hydraulic system - if they are too high, this could indicate problems with the operation of the hydraulic pump.

4 Cleaning the oil filter

The oil filter protects the hydraulic pumps from contamination. Regular cleaning of the filter is important to ensure that the hydraulic pump functions correctly. It is recommended to clean the filter every 500 operating hours or quarterly. It is also worth noting the condition of the filter - if it is too dirty, it should be replaced.

5 Checking for oil leaks

Oil leaks are a symptom of damage to the hydraulic pump or other components of the hydraulic system. Regular oil leakage checks are important to ensure that the hydraulic pump is working properly. It is recommended to carry out an oil leak check every 100-200 operating hours or once a month. It is also worth noting where oil leaks occur - if they are coming from the hydraulic pump, it should be repaired or replaced immediately.

6 Limiting work in difficult conditions

Working in harsh conditions such as high temperature, moisture or dust can adversely affect the condition of a hydraulic pump. To prevent damage, it is a good idea to limit the operation of the machine in harsh conditions or use special guards and filters.

Summary

Proper maintenance of a hydraulic pump is crucial to ensure its long life and proper operation. Changing the oil, checking the oil level and pressure, cleaning the oil filter, checking for oil leaks and limiting operation under harsh conditions are essential activities that should be carried out regularly. It is also worth remembering to use oil of the right quality and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Following these rules will keep your hydraulic pump in good working order for a long time, which translates into financial savings and operational safety.