Working in the industrial sector is not an easy job. Depending on what your company is making, you could find the working conditions hot and potentially risky. The use of hydraulic machines could lead to injury if you are not paying attention or if parts of the machine happen to fail. As such, you need to make sure you improve workplace safety by avoiding issues related to hydraulic seal failure.
Injuries and Risks
First, you should know what injuries and risks a failure could cause. Take into consideration that hydraulic machines often store fluid under an intense amount of pressure. In fact, you will often find that pressure is approximately 2,000 psi. Therefore, if a seal fails, it can cause the machine to lose pressure, which can prove dangerous.
Check the machine for proper coupling. Hydraulic seals are used to contain liquid to prevent any leaks from occurring. You will find that a machine often has both dynamic and static seals. You will find static seals between two fixed pieces of the hydraulic cylinder, such as between the piston rod and the piston, or the bore tube and the head. A dynamic seal sits between parts that are usually in motion, such as the piston and cylinder.
Use Maintenance to Check for Problems
The best way to avoid potential problems and injuries is to use routine maintenance. Inspections are part of routine maintenance, which allows you to check the machine for signs of possible seal failure. Make sure you check the machine's pressure levels to determine they are met. If you notice issues with the pressure level, it could indicate a potential problem with one or more of the seals.
Make sure you keep the machine's oil as clean as possible. If you notice the oil is dirty, change it immediately. Particles inside the oil will move through the machine's parts and cause damages. As such, seals may wear out and cause issues. Make sure you mark the machine as unavailable for use until you manage to address the problem and clean the oil.
You should also make sure you clean or replace filters regularly. Additionally, check the condition of the machine's rods and seals. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as corrosion, unevenness, or even pitting. If you notice any abnormalities, address them immediately to avoid the risk of injury. If you need assistance, talk to a qualified professional about seal replacement so you can find quality seals that can improve the safety of your hydraulic machines.
