Hydraulic systems can be found in many places. The braking system and jack in your vehicle use hydraulics. The tipping mechanism in trucks are also based on hydraulics. Jackhammers, hydraulic drills, boring machines, cranes, excavators, earth movers and graders are all types of machines that rely heavily on hydraulics. In manufacturing, hydraulic systems are used for a variety of things. Basically, any job that requires heavy lifting or transport can have a hydraulic system. This is because hydraulic systems can deliver greater power than what mechanical and pneumatic systems can deliver. In that regard, the most important component of any hydraulic system is the cylinder. This is what converts fluid pressure to back and forth movements that can either be used to lift, press or carry a heavy object.
Types of Cylinders
The most common type of hydraulic cylinder is the single acting cylinder. When pressurized fluid is allowed to enter the cylinder,the piston rod or shaft moves forward with great force. When the valve is closed, all the fluid is forced back to the tank through the return pipe and the piston rod/shaft returns to the original position with the help of a spring. The second type of cylinder is a dual-acting cylinder. As the name suggests, the cylinder acts in two directions. Both ends of the cylinder have an inlet and outlet. When the fluid is allowed to enter one end of the cylinder it pushes the piston in the opposite direction. At the end of that stroke, pressurized fluid is allowed to enter the other end of the cylinder, which pushes the piston to its initial starting position. Lastly, there is the telescopic hydraulic cylinder. This type of cylinder is unique in that the piston can stretch. A great example of a telescopic cylinder is the tipping mechanism of a truck or an hydraulic crane.
Buying a Cylinder
Hydraulic systems, like all other types of systems, can develop problems. For one, the cylinder can stop functioning. This can be due to a bent piston rod or a worn out seal. The cylinder can also fail to function if solid debris, such as sand and metal filings find their way into the cylinder and prevent the piston from moving freely. Whatever the case, you can either choose to repair the cylinder or have it replaced. This depends on the extent of the damage. Mechanical engineering firms can easily repair any type of damage, but a replacement is sometimes the best option. In that regard, you should look for an exact replacement. Ideally, you should take note of the part number and place your order for the highest quality hydraulic cylinders Brisbane has to offer.
