Hydraulic cylinder seals are easy to overlook when your hydraulic system is functioning properly. However, these seals are important for the entire system because when they break down and start to leak, you may need to shut down the entire system to replace them. That can cause delays in productions and other problems. Use the following tips can help you prevent seal failure.

Control Heat in the System

As you may already be aware, your hydraulic system can become very hot. Using heat-resistant seals can ensure that the hydraulic seals remain intact, but it is also important to control heat overall so that the seals can last longer.

One way to cut down the heat in your overall system is to paint metal surfaces, such as tubing. Paint seems like a strange choice to control temperature, but paint seems to help hydraulic systems to cool down and can contribute to heat rejection. Another solution for cooling the system may be to use electrical tape to wrap hydraulic lines.

Prevent Invasion of Foreign Particles

Sometimes, foreign substances can degrade the seals you are using. For example, metal particles may get stuck in the seal. For problems like this, you need to ensure that you are changing fluid filters regularly enough so that bits of metal and other debris aren't passing through and causing problems for the cylinder seals.

External elements like ice and mud might also damage your cylinder seals. Be sure that someone is frequently checking that these elements are wiped off of the seals and aren't allowed to accumulate and cause damage.

Watch for Chemical Reactions to New Fluids

If you have been using new fluids in your system, your hydraulic cylinder seals may be the first place you see a problem, if there is one. Chemical reactions may cause the seals to degrade. The fluids themselves may not be causing this damage, but some fluids contain additives that may cause cylinder seals to disintegrate or swell. Whenever you switch to new fluids, make sure to monitor the seals to look for any changes. You may need to replace your seals to accommodate new fluids, so keep that in mind as well.

Keep the above tips in mind when you want to extend the life of your hydraulic seals. Be sure to work with your employees to keep the seals working properly so that your entire hydraulic system can function well.