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How do I keep my hydraulics cool?

How do I keep my hydraulics cool?

There are several methods used for cooling of hydraulic oil in a system: oversizing of the reservoir to use the volume for cooling (the least expensive and also the least efficient option), fan and water cooled heat exchangers are also very common.

What should I do if my hydraulic system is overheating?

Beat the Heat. There are two ways to solve overheating problems in hydraulic systems: decrease heat load or increase heat dissipation. Hydraulic systems dissipate heat through the reservoir. Therefore, check the reservoir fluid level and if low, fill to the correct level.

How does a hydraulic system dissipate heat?

Hydraulic systems dissipate heat, albeit a relatively small amount, through the reservoir. Therefore, check the reservoir fluid level and, if low, fill to the correct level. Check that there are no obstructions to airflow around the reservoir, such as a build-up of dirt or debris.

What happens when hydraulic fluid is too hot?

Hydraulic fluid temperatures above 82°C (180°F) damage most seal compounds and accelerate degradation of the oil.

How much heat does a hydraulic system need?

To achieve stable fluid temperature, a hydraulic system’s capacity to dissipate heat must exceed its heat load. For example, a system with continuous input power of 100 kW and an efficiency of 80% needs to be capable of dissipating a heat load of at least 20 kW.

What happens if your hydraulic system overheats?

Over time, excessive heat can lead to system damage due to seal failure as well as hydraulic fluid breakdown. It is important to remember that hydraulic fluid is critical to protection of the metal components in any system and its degradation will lead to shorter component life.

What causes a hydraulic system to run hot?

There are many reasons for hydraulic overheating, but here are three that we see most often; User improvisation: We often hear of systems that have been running smoothly for years, and now all of a sudden they begin running hot. In many cases this is caused by someone making a system adjustment.

What should I do if my hydraulic system is not working?

Hydraulic systems dissipate heat through the reservoir. Therefore, the reservoir fluid level should be monitored and maintained at the correct level. Check that there are no obstructions to airflow around the reservoir, such as a build up of dirt or debris. It is important to inspect the heat exchanger and ensure that the core is not blocked.

To achieve stable fluid temperature, a hydraulic system’s capacity to dissipate heat must exceed its heat load. For example, a system with continuous input power of 100 kW and an efficiency of 80% needs to be capable of dissipating a heat load of at least 20 kW.

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Ruth Doyle