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How to Keep Hydraulic Oilfield Equipment Reliable

To keep your hydraulic oilfield equipment reliable, proper operation and on-time maintenance are essential. Whether your company relies on hydraulic pumps, hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic spreaders, hydraulic torque wrenches or other hydraulic tools to power its operations, the following measures are recommended to keep your oilfield equipment reliable:

  • Establishing an equipment maintenance tracking system
  • Keeping the hydraulic equipment clean and properly stored when not in use
  • Inspecting the hydraulic equipment for any signs of leaks or wear
  • Following up if the equipment shows signs of distress or impending failure
  • Partnering with an expert hydraulic equipment technician for maintenance services

These fundamental maintenance routines are simple enough for most oil and gas companies to implement and they can prevent a number of equipment failures.

Establish a Hydraulic Equipment Tracking Solutions

Any organization that invests in hydraulic pumps, hydraulic cylinders or other hydraulic assets should have an up-to-date equipment tracking system in place inside the organization. Some oil and gas companies do this with paper, while others rely on industry-specific software. In either case, an equipment tracking solution will support on-time, properly managed maintenance. That’s because a hydraulic asset tracking system will do the following:

  • Keep a running record of all maintenance and service the hydraulic pump, cylinder, torque wrench or spreader receives

  • Organize a hydraulic equipment maintenance schedule for the company’s assets

  • Identify potential signs of excessive wear to certain components, as equipment tracking solutions can also track part replacements

With a hydraulic equipment tracking system in place, it will be easier for your organization to streamline its maintenance processes and intervene before failures are likely to emerge.

Keep the Hydraulic Equipment Clean and Properly Stored When Not in Use

Contamination is the number one cause of oilfield hydraulic equipment failures. Contamination in the form of dirt, air or water can enter a hydraulic system through a warped seal or a torn hydraulic hose. To prevent a small vulnerability in your equipment from becoming a big contamination problem, prioritize cleanliness. Have operators wipe down the equipment after operation and give your hydraulic pumps an occasional flush, especially if contamination is suspected. During a hydraulic pump flush, the hydraulic fluid should be replaced, but not before the inside of the pump’s reservoir is cleaned out with a microfiber cloth and mild solvent.

Once each piece of hydraulic equipment is cleaned, it should be stored in a clean, dry place to prevent contamination from entering the system. When storing hydraulic cylinders, the rod should be retracted fully into the cylinder body. Any exposed portions of the rod should be protected with grease. All hydraulic ports should be sealed, as well.

Inspect the Hydraulic Equipment for Signs of Leaks or Wear

Following oilfield operations, your crews should turn their attention to the state of your hydraulic equipment. This includes a detailed visual inspection intended to spot any hydraulic fluid leaks or signs of wear to hydraulic system components. Check for hydraulic fluid residues on the pump body and around the drive shaft. Verify that that space around each piece of hydraulic equipment isn’t slick with pooling hydraulic fluid. Note the condition of all hydraulic hoses and ensure none are frayed. Tighten all retaining hardware to protect from vibration. The goal is to spot potential concerns before they develop into full blown failures.

Follow Up if the Equipment Shows Signs of Distress or Impending Failure

Hydraulic pumps and cylinders typically show signs of impending failure before it occurs, giving oilfield companies time to act if its operators know what signs to look for. Any of the following signs merit a deeper inspection:

  • Unusual operating sounds, like whining or banging
  • Elevated operating temperatures – use a thermal gun to spot check the hydraulic pump body, heat exchanger and valves
  • Loss of power delivery or inconsistent power delivery
  • Noticeable sediment in the hydraulic fluid

These signs indicate that wear, improper system calibration or contamination may be affecting your hydraulic equipment. As such, if your operators notice any of these signs, it’s highly recommended that your business partner with a reputable hydraulic technician to perform a full, detailed equipment inspection.

Partner with an Expert Hydraulic Technician for Maintenance Services

Hydraulic equipment maintenance is essential but may be challenging for oil and gas companies to stay ahead of. Hydraulic pumps, hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic spreaders, hydraulic torque wrenches and other hydraulic technologies are complex machines that must be disassembled and reassembled with precision during a round of maintenance.

Your field crews may be talented equipment operators and pipeline technicians, but they may not have the expertise needed to upkeep your valuable hydraulic assets. If so, an experienced hydraulic equipment technician can fill this skill gap and provide the maintenance and repair services needed to keep your hydraulic equipment in good operating shape – so your oil and gas operations aren’t interrupted by a preventable hydraulic equipment failure.

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