The Static Problem in Hydraulic Systems

Filter used on a filter cartBased on my experience at least, electrostatic discharge in hydraulic systems is not a widespread problem. But for reasons I’ll explain in a moment, it may be on the increase, so it’s definitely something you need to be aware of.

As you probably remember from school science experiments, electrostatic charge is generated whenever there is friction between two bodies moving … Read more

What Thermal Shock Can Do to a Hydraulic Motor

radial piston motor failureA recent client asked me to investigate and solve a recurring problem on a diving bell launch and recovery system. The system comprised a hydraulic power unit, a bell winch, an umbilical winch and a guide-wire winch.

To launch the bell, the guide-wire winch is used to lower a clump weight to the seabed. The guide wires prevent the bell … Read more

Why a Flooded Pump Inlet Does NOT Mean a Flooded Pump Case

pressurized hydraulic systems are dangerousOne of our members wrote me with this question:

“I was subcontracted to remove a 30 GPM, 4000 PSI rated hydraulic pump from one plastic injection press and install it into a similar hydraulic system.

The hydraulic pump and prime mover are both beside and below the bottom of the reservoir; a “flooded inlet” design. AND, except for the ball … Read more