Hydraulic Pump Leakage: What are the Most Common Causes?

Blog | October 12th, 2020

Hydraulic pumps are very useful for a lot of high-powered machinery and equipment that are intended to work on complicated tasks and processes. These pumps basically convert mechanical power into hydraulic energy. The energy conversion of these hydraulic pumps is done by applying pressure to the hydraulic liquids and initiating the positive displacement process.

Applications that involve manufacturing processes, industrial works, and construction activities can fully utilise the basic functionalities of hydraulic pumps. And given the importance of the tasks revolving around these applications, any problem that may occur on hydraulic pumps can significantly affect their overall performance. One problem that is frequently present on hydraulic pumps is leakage. 

Primary Causes of Hydraulic Pump Leakage

Pump leakage has been one of the most common problems that are faced by a lot of hydraulic pumps and systems. While leaks are often discovered through a puddle of fluid on the floor or any other location, not all leakage incidents will be able to produce visible signs and signals.

The causes of hydraulic pump leakage may point to many factors. One of the most common causes of hydraulic pump leakage is the accumulative wear on the component surfaces. As the hydraulic pump and its system carry out their respective primary functions, some of their components might end up deteriorating due to age or exposure to various elements. Pump leakage can likewise happen if the pump has a poor system design, an incorrect component selection, or an improper component installation. 

Another common cause of hydraulic pump leakage is the presence of manufacturing defects. Poor quality control tolerances during the whole manufacturing process of the hydraulic pump can easily allow leaks to destroy and fail the system. Excessive clearances within the pumping mechanisms of the pumps and the motors can likewise cause hydraulic pump leakage. Poor repair, maintenance, or rebuilt works on the hydraulic pump can also trigger hydraulic pump leakage on the whole hydraulic system and equipment. 

Signs and Effects of Hydraulic Pump Leakage

As mentioned, not all pump leakage can be easily identified through a puddle of fluid. Some signs of hydraulic pump leakage, whether internally or externally, can only be determined by thorough inspections.

Some signs that the hydraulic pump has an internal leakage include increased temperatures, increased noise, system speed reductions, decreased overall capacity or output, and overall system failure. External hydraulic pump leakage, on the other hand, is present if there is an oil mist, oil marks on the ground, or oil dripping from the pump. The combination of these signs typically means that the whole system must be shut down immediately so that it can be repaired and maintained by professionals.

The presence of hydraulic pump leakage can significantly affect the industries that rely on hydraulic systems. With hydraulic pump leakage, these industries will most likely experience a substantial increase in energy consumption and its associated costs, a decline in overall equipment reliability and performance, a significant reduction to machine or hydraulic system life, and many more.

Mobile Hydraulic Specialties Pty Ltd

Factory 89, 38-40 Popes Road
Keysborough, Victoria, 3173

Phone: (03) 9798-6511

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Mobile Hydraulic Specialties Pty Ltd

Phone: (03) 9798-6511
Address: Factory 89, 38-40 Popes Road, Keysborough, Victoria, 3173