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5 Reasons To Change The Oil In Your Hydraulic Elevator

Dru Brooks

Keep Your Hydraulic Elevator At Peak Performance

Hydraulic fluid is a critical aspect of any hydraulic elevator's mechanical system. Just like any hard surface, it is susceptible to natural wear and tear. As the hydraulic fluid begins to degrade, it can compromise the system's effectiveness and put its components, including the pumps, at risk of a costly failure. Additionally, contaminants can accelerate the hydraulic fluid’s breakdown, resulting in the need for a fluid change to rectify the problem.

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Hydraulic Fluid Monitoring Improves Reliability

To maintain hydraulic elevator efficiency, periodic cleaning and oil replacement are necessary to avoid wear metals, contaminants, and oil-oxidation film buildup. System flushing can suffice for minor buildups, but major deposits require manual cleaning. There's a growing interest in prolonging the hydraulic oil lifespan to conserve natural resources and minimize the environmental impact, as well as to eliminate disposal costs. Processes for reclaiming used hydraulic oil include recovery for fuel, re-refining, oil laundering, and onsite reconditioning.

Safety and efficiency depend on healthy hydraulic fluid in your elevator system. Here's how to monitor and maintain it for optimal performance:

Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels Regularly

  • Use a dipstick or view through the fill spout.
  • Consider installing sight glasses for easy visual checks.

Keep Your Elevator Fluid Clean

  • Filtration: Removes contamination like dirt and metal particles.
  • Air Breather Filters and Desiccators: Prevent external contamination.

Perform Regular Oil Analysis

  • Ensures oil quality for continued use.
  • Identifies issues within the hydraulic system.
  • Condition Monitoring: Oil analysis assesses the health of both the oil and the system.

Factors Impacting Hydraulic Oil Lifespan

  • Temperature: Extreme heat accelerates degradation.
  • Contamination: Dirt, water, and wear debris cause problems.
  • Oxidation: Exposure to air breaks down the hydraulic oil.

Benefits of Elevator Oil Changes

  • Extended oil life and reduced maintenance costs.
  • Prevent downtime and ensure elevator reliability.
  • Improve elevator safety and passenger comfort.

The Importance of Changing Hydraulic Fluid

Factors affecting hydraulic oil lifetime include excessive operating temperature and system hot spots, fluid degradation resulting in sludge and varnish formation, and the presence of contaminants such as water, airborne dirt and debris, metalworking fluids, foaming and aeration, and wear metals. These can lead to reduced lubricant effectiveness, actuator malfunction, increased wear due to abrasion, and corrosion.

To maintain hydraulic elevator efficiency, periodic cleaning and oil replacement are necessary to avoid wear metals, contaminants, and oil-oxidation films buildup. System flushing can suffice for minor buildups, but major deposits require manual cleaning. There's a growing interest in prolonging the hydraulic oil lifespan to conserve natural resources and minimize the environmental impact, as well as to eliminate disposal costs. Processes for reclaiming used hydraulic oil include recovery for fuel, re-refining, oil laundering, and onsite reconditioning.

The Dangers of Using Degraded Hydraulic Oil

When hydraulic oil degrades, it loses its ability to lubricate and protect against wear. Without proper attention, this can cause problems such as changes in power transmission, flow properties, accelerated wear of moving parts, and filtration issues leading to sludge buildup in the tank and pipework. These conditions can ultimately lead to complete hydraulic system failure. It's crucial to stay on top of your hydraulic oil's condition to prevent any negative impact on your system that results in extended down time or costly repairs.

Remember: Consistent monitoring and proper maintenance are crucial for safe and efficient elevator operation. For expert hydraulic fluid management solutions, contact your trusted elevator maintenance provider. 

Freedom To Choose

Liberty Elevator Corporation is your trusted expert when it comes to hydraulic fluid management and reliable elevator maintenance. Family-Owned and independently operated since 1960, Liberty has built a reputation for delivering reliable maintenance, modernization & repair services.

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