Excavators Working When Each Hydraulic Cylinder Services Reseal Serviced By A1 Hydraulic Engineering

Why These 3 Excavator Hydraulic Cylinders You Don’t Want To Neglect

When you’re running an excavator day in and day out, hydraulic cylinders are the silent workhorses behind every move your machine makes. From digging to lifting to demolition, each cylinder plays a critical role in keeping your heavy equipment operating smoothly. But like all hard-working components, these cylinders need proper care to keep running at their best. Neglecting these directly affects your productivity and profits. Let’s break down the 3 hydraulic cylinders, the conditions they face, the condition they could be in, and what to do about it.de Boom Cylinder: The Heavy Lifter The boom cylinder lifts and lowers the boom, the main arm of your excavator. It’s responsible for handling the heaviest loads. Operating conditions: The boom cylinder operates under extreme pressure, especially when lifting heavy materials or digging deep. Over time, seals can wear out, and leaks and ‘drift’ or ‘creep’ can develop. ‘Drift’ or ‘creep’ is when the boom cylinder, or cylinders, can’t maintain the pressure needed to hold the boom in place. This results in the boom to slowly drop over a short time, especially when holding a load. Active servicing the boom cylinders avoids losing lifting power and slowing down your productivity. . Arm Cylinder: The Reach The arm cylinder (aka: stick , dipper, crowd) extends and retracts the arm, controlling how far your excavator can dig. It faces a lot of wear when digging into hard soil or rock. This constant movement under load can wear seals and cause leaks. At times, excavators are used like a crane. And just like the boom, the arm cylinder it can dovelop ‘drift’ or ‘creep’ too. Why it’s important to service: A sluggish or leaky stick cylinder means losing control and precision, making it harder to dig efficiently. Keeping this cylinder in top shape ensures smooth, responsive operation every time. Bucket Cylinder: Your Material Mover The bucket cylinder controls not only the bucket, but every every other attachment the operator uses. The operating conditions it is exposed to are harsh: Heavy loads, constant movement, and harsh material contact can damage the chrome rod and seals worn quickly. On top of this, when using a hammer attachment for rock or concrete breaking, the bucket cylinder is taking a lot of punishment. Massive rock-breaking energy goes to this ram while it’s holding the hammer attachment in position. Why it’s important to service: A leaky bucket cylinder leads to slower cycle times and less force, dragging out your work and reducing productivity. Maintaining this hydraulic cylinder ensures your bucket moves as fast as you need it to, without leaks or power loss. How To Get Hydraulic Cylinder Help We specialise in servicing hydraulic cylinders for the mining, earthmoving, and heavy equipment industries, ensuring your equipment operates at peak performance with minimal downtime. Contact us today to have your hydraulic cylinders serviced by our expert team, allowing you to focus on maximising productivity and efficiency in your operations. Contact us on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the best solution for you Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 27.09.2024

box of mixed Hydraulic cylinder seals reseal resealing for heavy equipment earthmoving mining quarries.

The 5 Hydraulic Cylinder Resealing Must-Knows

News articles / By A1HE

When it comes to hydraulic cylinder resealing, doing it right the first time is crucial. You’ve taken the initial steps: disassembled the hydraulic cylinder and gathered a set of brand-new seals. Now it’s time to reassemble and get the hydraulic cylinder back to work. But without the right approach, all your efforts could go to waste if leaks or performance issues resurface. To help you avoid setbacks and ensure long-lasting results, here are five essential must-knows for hydraulic cylinder resealing. By following these steps, you’ll improve reliability and restore the cylinder’s performance. And don’t worry—this guide assumes the seals you’ve sourced are compatible with your machine and its hydraulic fluid. #1 Inspect Thoroughly Before you even think about installing the new seals, inspect the hydraulic cylinder itself. Check the barrel bore and the chrome rod for wear, scoring, or damage. Any compromised components should be repaired or replaced before you proceed. Why it matters: New seals won’t fix underlying damage. Overlooking this step risks recurring leaks and further downtime. #2 Confirm Seal Quality Not all seals are supplied equal. Inspect each item in your new seal kit closely. Even if they look fine at first glance, examine them for defects or signs of poor manufacturing. Pro tip: If you’re not 100% satisfied with the quality of the seals, don’t hesitate to replace them. High-quality seals are essential for long-term reliability. #3 Master the Technique Installing seals requires precision and care. Avoid forcing seals into place—this can kink or damage them, compromising their effectiveness. For internal grooves, consider using dedicated seal installation tools to make the process smoother. For external seals: Expand the seal just enough to fit over the component. Over-stretching can weaken the material, reducing its lifespan and effectiveness. #4 Mind the O-Rings When installing O-rings, always check that they aren’t twisted. A twisted O-ring can’t provide proper sealing and will wear out quickly. Pro tip: Use tools with rounded or smooth edges to prevent damage during installation. Sharp tools can nick the O-ring, causing premature failure. #5 Choose the Right Lubricant Not all lubricants are compatible with hydraulic seals. Avoid using greases with solid additives, such as molybdenum disulphide, which may damage your seals. Instead, opt for the hydraulic oil your machine already uses. How to apply: – Use a light coat of hydraulic oil to lubricate seals that need to stretch into grooves, like piston seals. – Apply a thin film of oil to the barrel bore before reassembly for smoother operation. Expert Help for Hydraulic Cylinder Resealing While these steps can set you up for success, resealing a hydraulic cylinder is a meticulous and time-consuming process. In industries like mining and earthmoving, downtime is costly, and handling repairs in-house may not always be the best use of your resources. That’s where we come in. By entrusting your hydraulic cylinder resealing to our expert team, you gain: – Time savings: Get your equipment back to work faster. – Professional assurance: Enjoy peace of mind with our workmanship warranty. – Specialist expertise: We handle resealing, repairs, and remanufacturing with precision, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. We specialise in servicing hydraulic cylinders for mining, earthmoving, and heavy equipment industries, helping you minimise downtime and maximise productivity. Contact us on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the best solution for you. Don’t let equipment issues slow you down—let us take care of your hydraulic cylinders so you can focus on what you do best. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 05.07.2024

A bent rod from a hydraulic cylinder repaired by A1 Hydraulic Engineering reman rod re-rod

Top 4 Reasons Hydraulic Cylinder Rods Bend

News articles / By A1HE

A major failure for hydraulic cylinders is when the rod bends or buckles when in operation. Usually when a rod is bent it also damages the gland, and at times, the piston and bore too. Pretty much have the hydraulic cylinder to catastrophically fail. Why can the other parts fail? A hydraulic cylinder has specific engineered tolerances and clearances. The rod, gland, piston, and barrel bore are all ‘straight’ to each other. So when a rod has a bend in it, it’s centre axis is no longer inline or straight with the other component. This puts excessive loads to guide rings and bushes. The piston becomes ‘crooked’ and the gland gets damaged as it becomes a fulcrum for the bend. Retracting a bent rod into the cylinder does not straighten it again. The machine should be immediately stopped and the failed hydraulic cylinder repaired or replaced. So here they are… Top 4 Reasons Why Hydraulic Cylinder Rods Bend Rod diameter too small Inadequate rod material strength Improper cylinder mounting arrangement Machine misuse/abuse by the operator What You Can Do About It If there are loads greater than the rods ability to withstand bending or buckling, then a new rod should be manufactured with an increased diameter and/or higher material strength. For reason No.4, it just comes down to operator training and care for the machine or attachment. If they are being used outside the manufacturer’s original design and operational intent then don’t be surprised if the hydraulic cylinders fail and the overall machine uptime and life is drastically reduced. How to spot a possible bend in a rod Here are some way you can spot a possible bend in a hydraulic cylinder rod: ‘Juddering’ during operation An audible sound during operation Oil leakage from seals Rod scoring Irregular rod wear patten What You Need To Do If you suspect that your hydraulic cylinder has a bend or needs attention, contact us today. Getting the cylinder looked at now is far better than putting it off and having catastrophic failure. Contact us now on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the best solution. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 26.04.2024

hydraulic cylinder on an earthmoving machine excavator that may have dieseling which can damage hydraulic seals and piston so you need to contact A1 hydraulic engineering to reseal, reman, remanufacture, manufacture hydraulic cylinders

5 Steps To Remove Air Form Hydraulic Cylinders

News articles / By A1HE

Whenever you are installing a hydraulic cylinder to your machine, you should always assume that some air will be introduced in the hydraulic system. You can lose oil during the process of disconnecting and reconnecting hoses, fittings, burst/craning valves, or even when installing hydraulic cylinder that’s completely empty. All these situations are not a problem when you understand what dieseling is. What’s dieseling? Simply put it’s the detonation of trapped air in oil when compressed. Just think about how a diesel engine works. Dieseling can damage pistons and the seals. Shortening the life of the hydraulic cylinder. It also means it reduces machine uptime. That’s why it best practice to bleed or remove air after any hydraulic cylinder service, when getting a new cylinder, or when there’s a possibility of air that’s entered into the hydraulic cylinders, Before You Start Check the machine’s maintenance manual for the procedure that’s specific or recommended for you. The below procedure is general guideline. You need to keep the machines’ engine at a low RPM/idle throughout the whole procedure. And be patient. Don’t rush this important process. Don’t run the engine at full noise and sudden control movements to fill the hydraulic cylinder quicker. You are only promoting for dieseling to occur. The 5 Steps Keep the engine at low idle and then… Step 1: For 8 cycles, slowly extended and retracted the cylinder through approximately 3/4 of the full cylinder travel. Do this for 8 to 10 cycles. Don’t let the cylinders reach the stroke ends (bottom out), in both directions. Step 2: Pause before you change direction for a minimum of 5 seconds. Step 3: Then, slowly cycle the hydraulic cylinders to the full extend and retract travel, while keeping the hydraulic pressure low. Step 4: Pause before you change direction for a minimum of 5 seconds. Step 5: Finally, check the hydraulic oil level and top up as needed. Getting Your Hydraulic Cylinder Serviced If your machines’ hydraulic cylinders are leaking, loosing efficiency, or if you suspect that dieseling has occurred… Contact us now on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the best solution. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 14.03.2024

hydraulic cylinders on an Excavator with grab attachment that A1 Hydraulic Engineering does service and repair and manufacture reman remanufacturing in earthmoving mining quarry civil and industrial

Ground-Breaking Power Source For Hydraulic Cylinders

News articles / By A1HE

Big changes are happening in the earthmoving industry. This isn’t just a shift in fuel preferences; it’s a new way to make equipment cleaner and more sustainable, significantly altering how we power our heavy machinery. Major brands are already taking the lead, experimenting with hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen-electric systems to bring about a greener era. To top it off, a brilliant team in the University Of NSW have patented a Hydrogen-Diesel Direct Injection Duel-Fuel System. This can make existing diesel engines use 90% hydrogen and have an 85% CO2 emission reduction! But here’s the twist – it’s not just about flashy new designs. A few industry giants are also revamping existing diesel-powered machines into hydrogen-electric powerhouses, trying out hydrogen-power on equipment. So Why All The Fuss? Unlike the traditional diesel and natural gas options, hydrogen is gaining popularity as a cleaner alternative. While electric machinery has been around, it’s not always the perfect fit for every job. Hydrogen steps in as a versatile option, delivering no emissions while maintaining the power, torque, and response time we’re used to with regular combustion engines. Here’s the amazing part – you don’t necessarily need an entirely new fleet to jump on the hydrogen bandwagon. Heavy machinery vehicles are being converted from diesel power to hydrogen-electric, showing that owners and managers can make a sustainable upgrade without a hefty price tag of an entire new fleet. And with the hydrogen market on the rise, earthmoving companies will have more options, from getting new equipment to tapping into the expanding hydrogen infrastructure. It’s not just about adopting a new method; it’s about reshaping how we look at progress in the heavy machinery industry. However, Here’s What You Should Know All these machines will still need to be serviced and maintained, including their hydraulic cylinders. Keeping your earthmoving machine’s hydraulic cylinders in top condition is vital to get the best efficiency and uptime. If your machine’s hydraulic cylinders are leaking, loosing power, or damaged, then don’t leave it any longer. For all your hydraulic cylinder enquiries and servicing call us on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the best solution. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 4.12.2023

An earthmoving machine cat caterpillar yellow grader in the minimg and earthmoving industry that A1 Hydraulic Engineering service and reseal and manufacture and reman and remanufacture hydraulic cylinders with electronic monitoring and service system

Will This Earthmoving Trend Take Off?

News articles / By A1HE

Ever wondered how you could enhance your machine’s performance and streamline your operations? Well, here’s the trend that’s growing with earthmoving machine manufacturers: Electronic Machine Monitoring. In a nutshell, electronic monitoring allows you to keep a close eye on your machines in real time. You can use this technology the right way and change the way you operate, forever. Or, will it end up like the app on your phone that’s rarely used but you know it does more stuff? Imagine having the power to monitor fuel efficiency, track usage patterns, and even receive maintenance alerts, conveniently sent to your office or smartphone. It’s like having your own personal assistant. Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I look into machines with electronic monitoring?” Game-Changer For Earthmoving Here’s why it can be a game-changer for earthmoving companies just like yours: 1. Earthmoving Efficiency: Know exactly how your machines are performing on the field. Find out the areas where you can better improve productivity, including the selection of attachment over another machine. 2. Maintenance Management: Never miss a beat by getting instant alerts about needed maintenance. Stay ahead of potential issues, minimise downtime and eliminate machine neglect. 3. Cost Efficiency: Monitor fuel usage and machine productivity. Get the extra help to cut down on operational costs and increase your overall profitability. 4. Safety Mindset : Monitor operator behavior and how the machine is treated. Build a safe working environment for your company. 5. Information In Real Time: Get all the data you need in real time. Manage your machines with ease. Improve your job site decision making. What It Means For You At A1 Hydraulic Engineering, we understand the challenges faced by earthmoving companies. Whether you have an electronic monitoring feature in your machines or not, proper machine care should be your priority. And the hydraulic cylinders are no exception. When your machine’s hydraulic cylinders are it top condition then your not going to get the unnecessary loss of energy that happens by decreasing efficiency. And with rising energy costs, having a mind set for machine care is as great company culture trait. For all your hydraulic cylinder enquiries and servicing call us on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the the best solution. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 27.10.2023

resealing seals of various sizes and colours showing that A1 Hydraulic Engineering Hydraulic Cylinder Reseals Hydraulic Cylinder Repairs Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturing

What You Should Know About Hydraulic Cylinder Seals

News articles / By A1HE

Hydraulic cylinder seals deteriorate over time due to many factors, and knowing the most common reasons behind this deterioration is vital for maintaining the performance and longevity of any hydraulic cylinder and the hydraulic system to your machine. Factors that contribute to seal deterioration include: environmental conditions, pressures, temperature exposure, and sealing materials. When a hydraulic cylinder is showing first signs of seal deterioration, such as leaks and loss of efficiency, then the best thing is to start planning to have it resealed. It is not uncommon for operators to ‘push’ the machine further and to work it longer – and even ignoring any signs altogether! Ways Hydraulic seals can deteriorate and fail 1. Extrusion: This occurs when high pressure forces the seal material to deform or extrude into gaps or clearances in the cylinder, compromising its integrity and sealing performance. 2. Compression Set: Over time, seals may lose their ability to return to their original shape after being compressed, ending up permanently deformed and loss of effectiveness. 3. Hardening and Cracking: Exposure to heat or extreme temperature, chemicals, or UV exposure can cause the seals to harden and become brittle, eventually leading to cracking or breakage. 4. Swelling: Some hydraulic fluids may cause seals to swell or expand, affecting its housing fit and sealing ability. 5. Contamination: Normal wear from repetitive motion is accelerated when contaminants, such as dust or abrasive particles, enter the hydraulic system and come into contact with the seals. When a hydraulic cylinder is showing first signs of seal deterioration, such as leaks and loss of efficiency, then the best thing is to start planning to have it resealed. Why You Shouldn’t Neglect These Signs Taking lightly any signs of hydraulic cylinder seal deterioration can have serious consequences. When seals start to deteriorate, they aren’t doing what their functions are for: sealing, guiding, wiping, and protecting. Leaking and bypassing seals leads to poor efficiency and the high risk of damage to the hydraulic system. The final result of neglect can be an expensive catastrophic failure to the hydraulic cylinder and system. The best solution for hydraulic cylinder seal deterioration is to get it serviced. Inspect seals often for signs of leakage or damage. Seals must be replaced at the first sign of deterioration to prevent more problems. Use only high-quality seals that’s specific for the hydraulic system and following proper maintenance and operating practices, such as keeping hydraulic fluid clean and within recommended temperature and pressure limits, can help extend the life of seals. What To Do Next For all your hydraulic cylinder enquiries and servicing call us on 07 3800 8721 and a friendly team member will help you get the the best solution. Contact us today Written by The A1HE Team Date: 5.10.2023