How to Know When NOT to Use Fluid Power

hydraulic efficiencyIn the current inflationary environment, the debate concerning peak oil (the end of cheap mineral oil) and global warming (the end of the planet as we know it) have been somewhat sidelined.

But these two major issues have not gone away. And they will almost certainly influence the source and cost of our energy needs for some time to come.… Read more

3 Hydraulic Oil Properties That Matter

hydraulic oil drumMost hydraulic systems will operate satisfactorily using a variety of fluids. These include multigrade engine oil, automatic transmission fluid and more conventional anti-wear hydraulic oil. But which type of fluid is best for a particular application? While it is not possible to make one, definitive recommendation that covers all types of hydraulic equipment in all applications, the following are some … Read more

Hydraulic Pump Leakage and Changeout

graphIn a condition-based maintenance environment, the decision to change-out a hydraulic pump or motor is usually based on either remaining bearing life or deteriorating efficiency, whichever occurs first.

Despite recent advances in predictive maintenance technologies, the maintenance professional’s ability to determine the remaining bearing life of a pump or motor, with a high degree of accuracy, remains elusive.

Deteriorating efficiency … Read more