Simple tips for machine operators

Oil is the lifeblood of all hydraulic equipment. The simplest thing we can do is “Look at It.” It should look clean and be free from contamination. Clean oil, free from dirt and moisture, will keep your systems trouble-free and help prevent breakdowns and downtime.

We cannot stress enough how important Hydraulic filtration is on every hydraulic system, make sure your systems are filtered and change out your filters to an organised program. For hydraulic systems deemed vital to your business, inquire about on-site and off-site oil testing options.

Operating cylinders with bent shafts causes the worst possible damage. If you suspect a bent shaft, or your cylinder is leaking from the shaft seal, get it repaired and make sure it’s repaired properly.

Here at Jesco, we see thousands of cylinders with bent shafts. We are not sure why operators do it, but for some reason, the first thing they do is to try and retract the shaft. Maybe they think it is magically going to straighten itself but as it retracts. The bend starts entering the head, and the piston inside the barrel often tilts slightly, digging into the inside of the cylinder and severely scoring the barrel; at the same time, huge pressures build up in the cylinder head, resulting in most cases with the head-splitting or shattering. What started as a shaft straightening or shaft replacement has suddenly become a total cylinder rebuild or a complete replacement.

So please, if you bend a shaft, stop immediately and get it fixed. It could save you thousands.

Pumps and Motors will generally give you some warning of oncoming problems. If you notice an increase in noise levels, excessive heat, or a drop in performance, get it checked out before it is too late.

Avoid letting your hoses get to the stage where they blow out. Hose failure can induce a large amount of dirt/contamination into your systems. When you know you have damaged hoses or a hose in poor condition, plan a replacement program. It will save you downtime and avoid contamination.

Continually running or frequent cycling of your compressors can rocket up your power bills and are the most obvious signs of problems.

Fill a squeeze bottle with water, add a squirt of dishwashing liquid and use this to check out your entire system. Check all joints, fittings, shaft seals, actuators and everything else air is passing through or operating on your system.

Fixing air leaks could save you thousands in power bills and add years to your compressors' life.