Hydraulic seals refer to the components that function to prevent fluids from leaking as they are transported through components in a system. These seals are characterised by their soft nature and tend to be durable if used in the proper manner. However, hydraulic seals are vulnerable to damage from external factors. It is crucial for operators to detect deterioration so that the seals are repaired or replaced as needed in order to prevent irreparable damage to the equipment. Read on for four signs indicating that the functionality of hydraulic seals is in jeopardy.

The hydraulic seals have hardened

Soft hydraulic seals are not meant to be used in environments that will lead to exposure to heat. When the hydraulic seals are subjected to high temperatures, their lifespan will be substantially decreased, and this will manifest as hardening of the seals. The harder the seals become, the higher the risk of cracks forming, which, in turn, will lead to leaks when the equipment is in operation. Not only should you have these seals removed but also it is mandatory to replace them with heat-resistant options to prevent this hardening from recurring.

The hydraulic seals are fractured

Fractures can happen for several reasons. While the most common cause is due to heat exposure that causes cracks and subsequently fractures, this form of damage can also occur when the seals are subjected to excessive pressure that shocks the structure of the seals. You should also note that fractures could come about if the seals are made from low-quality supplies. It is advisable to only source hydraulic seals from reputable manufacturers to ensure that they will not succumb to the pressure of working a given environment.

The hydraulic seals were installed poorly

You may be using the right seals made from the best materials, but if they are not installed correctly, then they are still at risk of malfunction. For instance, if the seals are not of the right size, then they will be incapable of handling the workload they are tasked with. On the other hand, if the seals are not fitted correctly, then they will be at risk of exposure to elements that will compromise their integrity. If you need hydraulic seals installed, ensure that they are properly sized to the components and that only professionals fit them.

The hydraulic seals are contaminated

For hydraulic seals to stay at optimum working condition, they should only be exposed to the liquids that they are meant to seal. In the event that dirt makes its way through the equipment, it can collect on the seals and compromise their function. Hydraulic seals that are not working optimally will be incapable of preventing pollutants from breaching the piston, and this will have an adverse effect on the equipment.

Talk with a professional about your hydraulic seals and how to maximise their lifespan.