Preventing Hydraulic Leaks With Seals and Gaskets

Hydraulic equipment leaks can lead to costly damage and safety risks. Seals and gaskets play an important role in preventing these leaks and promoting the safety and efficiency of your equipment and parts.

Understanding common causes of leaks and how to make simple repairs can help you save time and money. Continue reading to learn how to prevent hydraulic leaks and the importance of heavy equipment seals and gaskets.

Common Causes of Hydraulic Leaks

There are many instances where reliable hydraulic equipment can start to leak hydraulic fluid. The cause of leaks can vary depending on the cylinder type. However, there are common causes to keep in mind.

A visual inspection should be sufficient to find external leaks, though internal leaks are more difficult to spot and can be the result of wearing, poor design, inaccurate tolerances during manufacturing, or even using the incorrect components. Identifying these root causes is important in implementing effective leak prevention strategies.

• Poor design: Inadequate system design can lead to weak points where leaks are more likely to occur. 
• Excessive wear and tear: Many leaks occur when fluid bypasses a piston seal through a worn seal or cylinder barrel, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and replacement schedules. 
• High temperatures and pressure issues: Low fluid viscosity or excessive heat can accelerate wear on seals and gaskets, increasing the leakage rate and risking hydraulic downtime. If the correct seals are not chosen for operating temperatures, speeds and environment, contaminants can enter when the piston moves, reducing the service life of the seal, components and hydraulic oil. Changing the pressure settings periodically to ensure they haven’t changed is critical in preventing leaks.
• Human error: Mistakes during assembly or maintenance procedures can compromise the integrity of seals and gaskets, leading to leaks that could have been prevented with proper training and attention to detail. It’s also important to choose seals that are compatible with the specific hydraulic fluid in the system.

Leaks in the pump or motor can cause significant power loss in hydraulic systems, leading to downtime. Visual inspections and proper maintenance are critical to prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking and compromising the system.

Importance of Seals and Gaskets

Seals and gaskets play critical roles in hydraulic systems, preventing leaks and maintaining system efficiency. Properly functioning seals and gaskets are essential for system efficiency, longevity and safety. These components form barriers that contain hydraulic fluids within the system. They seal off potential leakage points to maintain proper fluid pressure levels and make sure the system works without losing efficiency.

Additionally, seals and gaskets contribute to the reliability and longevity of your system. They can prevent leaks that lead to contamination and component damage, helping extend the life span of heavy equipment and reducing the need for frequent repairs. They are also critical for safety purposes. Preventing leaks can reduce the risk of accidents, such as fluid spills or system malfunctions, which can pose hazards to personnel and the environment.

Seals and Gaskets Used in Hydraulic Systems

There are many types of seals and gaskets used in hydraulic systems, including O-rings, piston seals and spiral wound gaskets. Each type serves a specific purpose based on the application’s requirements. 

• O-rings: These are the most common types of seals used in hydraulic systems due to their versatility and effectiveness in sealing static and dynamic applications. They can be made from materials like silicone, nitrile and Viton, each with its own resistance level to fluids, temperatures and pressures.
• Piston seals: These seals are specifically designed to prevent fluid from bypassing the piston in a hydraulic cylinder. They are installed in the piston’s groove and create a seal between the piston and the cylinder bore. Piston seals are crucial for maintaining pressure and preventing leaks within the cylinder.
• Spiral wound gaskets: These are popular for high-pressure, high-temperature applications. They are made of alternating layers of metal and filler material, offering a reliable seal under the most extreme conditions where traditional gaskets might fail. 
• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) seals: PTFE seals are known for their chemical resistance and low friction properties, often used in applications involving aggressive fluids or high temperatures.

Heavy equipment seals and gaskets are made from durable materials to prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking. To choose the right type of seal or gasket, you’ll need to consider factors like operating conditions, fluid compatibility and pressure levels. The correct seal or gasket will effectively mitigate leaks and ensure optimal performance and longevity of your system. 

Proper Seal and Gasket Installation

Correct installation is critical for ensuring the effectiveness of heavy equipment seals and gaskets. It’s important to consult with hydraulics professionals to ensure the proper installation of these components. General steps include: 

1. Inspect Components

Before installation, inspect the seals and gaskets for visible damage or defects. Make sure the components are clean and free of debris, rips and tears that could compromise the seal.

2. Apply Lubricant

Depending on the seal or gasket’s material, apply the right lubricant to help you install the components and reduce friction during operation. You might also soak the seal in hot lubricant to improve its elasticity.

3. Ensure Proper Alignment

Align the seal or gasket correctly with the compatible surface to ensure a tight seal. Avoid sharp corners that could damage the seal’s surface, as well as misalignment that could lead to leaks and failure. 

4. Use the Right Tools

Use the right tools to install the seal, including alignment tools or torque wrenches, to install the components without damaging them. Be sure to remove dust or any particles from these tools that could impact sealing.

5. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation procedures, torque specifications and any specific requirements for the seals and gaskets you’re using. 

6. Check for Even Compression

When installing gaskets, ensure there’s even compression across the surface to prevent hydraulic fluid from leaking. Tighten the fasteners gradually and in a crisscross pattern to distribute even pressure. 

7. Perform a Leak Test

After installation, conduct a leak test to verify that the seals and gaskets are functioning correctly. This can involve pressure testing the system or inspecting for any signs of leakage.

Buy Hydraulic Parts From Gregory Poole 

Hydraulic components drive many types of heavy equipment, from excavators to material handlers. Routine maintenance is essential to prevent leaks and ensure these machines deliver the power and efficiency needed for your tasks. Understanding the causes of leaks and how to correctly install seals and gaskets is critical to your success.

Gregory Poole recognizes the importance of quality hydraulic repairs and services. Our experts have the knowledge and experience to repair, reseal and reconstruct hydraulic components. We carry and extensive selection of hydraulic parts for all makes and models of heavy equipment. Browse quality hydraulics components or contact us today to learn how we can service your hydraulic needs.