What Are the Most Common Causes of Hydraulic Pump Leaks?

Hydraulic pumps operate under high pressure and are also exposed to high temperatures. This makes them prone to wear over time. Leaks occur when fluid bypasses the pump shaft. It may happen within the system and therefore may not be visible. Leaks in hydraulic pumps can thin the fluid, increasing thermal loads through aeration and cavitation, so both higher temperatures and lack of lubrication can lead to damage.

1. How to detect hydraulic pump leakage?

Hydraulic leaks outside the hydraulic pump are the easiest to detect because there will be oil sumps. Internal leaks can be suspected by changes in system performance and efficiency. Common signs of leaks include pump whining, rattling or rattling, increased fluid temperature (any reading above 180°F), and slow system operation. Cycle time may gradually increase, indicating pressure drop causing overheating. For subtle signs of leaks, use a hydraulic flow tester, ultrasonic detector, or benchtop test system to locate leaks and repair them.

2. What is the reason for the leakage of the hydraulic pump?

Wear is the biggest cause of hydraulic system leaks. Hydraulic fluids tend to be very abrasive, especially when tiny metal particles are suspended. At high operating pressures, these wear components from the inside, especially pump seals, which leak most often. The pump seal is located around the shaft that connects the pump to the motor and contains the fluid on the pump side. Depending on its design, a pump may have a fluid seal around its piston or a seal containing fluid within the pump cavity.

Filter problems are a major cause of hydraulic pump leaks. Regular filter replacement can control wear and ultimately prevent system failure because the filter captures the abrasive particles that are shed as components wear out. The more internal wear, the more surface area the fluid contacts. This further increases wear rates and the potential for leaks. Poor system design can also lead to pump leaks. If equipment is not manufactured to the correct tolerances, it may not perform as intended and may increase wear, damage and leakage. Incorrectly installed parts can also cause leaks.

3. Is it time to replace the hydraulic pump?

If it's not just the seals that are worn out, the pump may be nearing the end of its useful life. Evaluating pump components helps determine the condition of parts such as couplings, filters, and pump shafts. Hydraulic pumps with multiple faulty parts should be replaced as more damage may be caused and additional repairs may be required soon.