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There is a difference between repairing something and repairing it properly. If you come across a situation you don't know how to fix, then you need to call the experts. There are repair professionals who specialize in everything from ovens to roofs. Knowing how to select and hire the right one is half the battle. That's one topic you will find explained here on this website. We've also collected various other articles on repairs and restoration. We don't expect you will be an expert on the topic by the time you finish reading, but we do think you'll be better informed and more able to hire the right expert.

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3 Signs You Need Hydraulic Cylinder Repair

by Clara Nichols

Many industries, ranging from construction to manufacturing, rely heavily on hydraulic systems to keep things running. Hydraulic cylinders are one of the most important parts of any system, providing the linear force needed to handle heavy loads. Unfortunately, when a hydraulic cylinder fails, the results can be catastrophic. For this reason, anybody who works around hydraulic systems should be on the lookout for some of the most common signs of problems so they can be addressed sooner rather than later.

Unexplained Increase in Energy Bills

When operating correctly and on a fairly regular schedule, hydraulic systems require a predictable and consistent power draw; this means that most businesses can expect a relatively steady power bill each month, provided that operations don't fluctuate wildly. However, when there is a problem with a hydraulic cylinder, other parts of the hydraulic system are forced to work harder in order to keep things moving. This can result in significantly higher power draws. 

If you notice a sudden spike in power usage for a hydraulic system, it's time to have it inspected to make sure there are no bad seals, leaks, or other issues that could be causing it.

Unusually High Fluid Temperature

Hydraulic fluid should generally stay under 180 degrees Fahrenheit; anything higher and you could end up facing damage to the seals or even total breakdown of the fluid itself. With this in mind, it is important to keep a close eye on the fluid temperature within a hydraulic system. If temperatures are too high, the heat exchanger is the first place to look as a blocked core may be the cause.

Strange Noises During Operation

If you spend even a little bit of time around a hydraulic system, you quickly learn what it typically sounds like, and it becomes easy to spot abnormal noises. Specifically, though, you'll want to be on the lookout for shuddering or banging noises as these could be signs of cavitation. This is a problem that occurs when vapor cavities form due to a lack of hydraulic fluid. These cavities can then implode when they're compressed by the system, resulting in a distinctive banging or shuddering noise.

What Should You Do Next?

If you're experiencing any of these issues, your system may need hydraulic cylinder repair. Contact a specialist in your area to perform a site analysis; from there, you can have the problem diagnosed and schedule necessary repairs.

For more information, speak with a professional who offers hydraulic cylinder repair.

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