INVESTIGATING PARTICLE CONTAMINATION IN HYDRAULIC CYLINDERS: A CLEAR SOLUTION

Abstract

Hydraulic equipment plays a pivotal role in various industries, offering a plethora of advantages. Hydraulic cylinders, in particular, are critical components known for their wide application in petrochemical and engineering machinery. The presence of leakage in hydraulic cylinders poses a significant threat to their operational efficiency, service life, and processing precision. While many enterprises still opt for simple replacement as the primary maintenance method for hydraulic cylinders, this approach often leads to short service cycles, high failure rates, and increased maintenance costs. It is imperative to delve into the root causes of hydraulic cylinder leakage to ensure the continued and optimal performance of hydraulic equipment.

Statistics reveal that a substantial 70% to 80% of hydraulic system malfunctions can be attributed to hydraulic oil contamination. The pollution of hydraulic oil by foreign particles has a detrimental impact, exacerbating the wear and tear on original components within the hydraulic cylinder, compromising their sealing capabilities, and ultimately resulting in leakage. Notably, when pollutants infiltrate the hydraulic cylinder, they typically navigate a 0.5 mm gap located between the piston's outer circumference and the cylinder. Under certain conditions, especially those involving uneven loads, the hydraulic cylinder may experience undesired pulling forces, causing damage to the equipment. Consequently, a comprehensive investigation into particle contamination of hydraulic cylinders under partial loads is essential for mitigating these issues. Previous research has explored the implementation of clearance fits in hydraulic cylinder design, with the objective of enhancing their service life.