Eliminating leaks in hydraulic systems

Leakage is a widespread nuisance in the hydraulic industry. In the last few years, this problem has

become less severe. However, complete elimination remains difficult to this day.

Leakage remains an elusive issue, since leak-free component designs are widely available in the industry. Achieving the right amount of lubrication, which has to be applied on seals, can help maintain them for a long time.

However, this is still not a foolproof solution.

Choosing the right sealing products

Finding leak-proof sealing poses no challenge. However, choosing a product that fits your application is a huge problem.

Almost all major sealing manufacturers and suppliers offer products that meet ISO and SAE standards. The problem arises when you have to find the correct product for multiple applications or various parts of a system.

A sealing component may be leak-free while operating under certain conditions, but aggressive conditions of another application may cause it to leak. Similarly, you may be successful in finding a product for most parts of the system, but that can only be achieved after trial and error.

Pick a manufacturer with vast industrial experience, so they can guide you about their products.

Reducing the leakage potential

More number of connections means higher leakage risk. You can reduce the risk by decreasing the number of connections in the system.

Integrate multiple components into a single assembly. For instance, use integral block and bleed valves if both functions are necessary. Also, you can opt for monoflange valves to save space as well as reduce leak potential.

Ensuring maintenance for zero leakage

Hydraulic leaks often don’t cause an instant safety hazard. That’s why they are often ignored until the next maintenance shutdown.

Even when addressed, technicians only tighten the components to fix the leak. Instead of fixing the problem, which can in fact cause it to become more severe.

Technicians must be aware of the right methods and procedures that should be followed. Inspection and timely maintenance are also important to catch a problem in its starting phase.

Even if you take all the necessary steps, every sealing product has a particular lifespan. Vibration, pressure pulsation, and temperature changes can all affect the fitting and cause them to leak over time.

Make sure all your sealing equipment is functioning correctly and replace the ones that aren’t offering optimal performance. Looking for a valve or instrumentation tube fittings supplier? We’ve got you covered! Contact SealExcel for hydraulic sealing products, including high pressure valves.