Operational reliability and safety of material handling systems require the proper care and feeding of conveyor hydraulic systems.
A proactive and preventive conveyor hydraulics maintenance program leads to greater cost-efficiency paybacks, plus the delivery of reliable machine performance required for high-volume feeding, transfer and stockpiling of salable products. Certainly a modest investment in time and effort is involved; however, conveyor hydraulic maintenance is not rocket science, but rather the adherence to simple common sense guidelines.
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1. Monitor Fluid Levels
Most importantly, always maintain the correct hydraulic oil level – and check the levels before starting your equipment. Inadequate oil levels may result in major component failures due to cavitation, or cause parts to starve for oil; or from aeration (air is being sucked into the system); or from overheating. These issues result in a snowballing effect that ultimately deteriorates or even destroys the pump and contaminates the entire system.
2. Conduct Routine Maintenance Inspections
Weekly inspections should include checking fluid levels, filter indicators, temperature gauges, breather caps and filters, and checking all components, system hoses and connections for leakage. Inspect for aeration which is identified in the reservoir by looking for foaming or little whirlpools that appear due to gulps of air being taken into the suction strainer. If detected, this may indicate low fluid levels, high viscosity, low fluid temperatures, faulty shaft seals, or air leaks in the suction line. Listen to pumps for any high-pitched whines during operation, which may indicate signs of cavitation.
3. Use the right hydraulic oils
Always use manufacturer-recommended brands and do not mix oils. Use the proper viscosity grade. Viscosity is defined as a measurement of how resistant a fluid is to attempts to move through it. Low viscosity fluid is said to be thin, while high viscosity fluid is thick. The usage of the proper oil is integral to ensuring cold starts, high temperature protection and to maintaining optimum system efficiency.
Looks for five more expert tips in the December edition of Aggregates Manager Magazine.
