Before approaching the task of installing a hydraulic powerpack there are 5 things that you must remember not to do…
1. Connect the hydraulic power pack to an existing system without cleaning or flushing it.
We often see this issue in single acting systems, such as a scissor lift or tipper truck, where a hydraulic power unit is replaced but the pipework and cylinder have contaminated oil in them. When the equipment is first operated this dirt is returned into the hydraulic power pack through the hydraulic valves causing them to block and fail.
2. Work on the power pack until electrical supplies have been isolated.
Many hydraulic systems have a control system that include a hydraulic pressure switch or transducer. These can be configured to “automatically” start the power pack.
3. Overfill the reservoir.
Particularly important with mini and micro packs where the hydraulic oil tanks can often be small compared to the amount of oil required by the cylinders. Always fill the reservoir in stages, complete the filling level once all the air has been bleed from the system and with all the hydraulic cylinders fully retracted.
4. Forget to check the motor rotation.
Mostly applies to 3phase 415V motors, as these must be orientated to ensure the motor runs in the direction as indicated on the motor arrow label. This can also apply to 1phase 240V motors, but this is set at the time of manufacture. Failure to ensure the direction is correct can cause premature failure of the hydraulic pump seals. Running the motor for a short burst to check the rotation is essential.
5. Adjust the pressure relief or safety valves, beyond the manufacturers setting.
A frequently observed cause of premature failure of a hydraulic powerpack is a pressure relief valve that has been set higher then the hydraulic pump rating. This can be innocently done if a powerpack does not seem to be pumping, yet subsequently the pump proceeds to operate and then the pressure peaks at a very high level damaging the hydraulic pump.
Assistance is installing and maintaining all our powerpacks can be found at www.hydraproducts.co.uk.