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  • How to Extend the Life of Your Hydraulic Cylinders: Maintenance Tips from the Pros
  • October 15, 2024
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Hydraulic cylinders are the powerhouse behind many industrial applications—from construction and material handling to manufacturing and agriculture. At Mishel Hydraulics, we engineer every cylinder to deliver high performance and long-lasting durability. But like any mechanical system, proper care is key to keeping your cylinders running smoothly for years.

Here are expert-backed maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your hydraulic cylinders and keep your operations efficient and downtime-free.

Regularly Inspect for Leaks and Wear

Leaks are often the first warning sign that something isn’t right. Check cylinder rods, seals, and fittings for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks. A small leak can quickly escalate into a bigger problem if ignored.

What to look for:

  • Fluid around the rod end
  • Damaged or cracked seals
  • Worn-out fittings or hoses

Keep the Rod Clean and Scratch-Free

Contaminants like dust, metal shavings, or moisture can damage the piston rod and lead to seal failure. Make sure rods are wiped clean regularly—especially if your equipment operates in harsh environments like construction or agriculture.

Pro Tip: Never let mud or debris accumulate near the rod entry point.

Use the Correct Hydraulic Fluid

Using the wrong type of hydraulic oil can lead to poor lubrication, overheating, and even corrosion. Always use manufacturer-recommended hydraulic fluids and maintain proper fluid levels.

Also monitor:

  • Oil temperature
  • Viscosity

Contaminants (via regular fluid testing)

Monitor Operating Pressure

Your hydraulic system is only as strong as its weakest component. Excessive pressure can cause damage to seals, tubes, and pistons over time.

  • Stay within the recommended operating pressure (up to 350 BAR for Mishel cylinders)
  • Use pressure relief valves to avoid dangerous spikes

Check Mounting Alignment

Misalignment can cause uneven load distribution and lead to premature rod or bearing wear. Regularly check cylinder alignment—especially after heavy use or during routine service checks.

Misaligned mounting is one of the most common causes of early cylinder failure.

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Jerky Movements

A cylinder that suddenly becomes noisy, jerky, or slow is usually sending a message: something’s wrong. It could be air in the system, internal wear, or fluid contamination.

Immediate attention = fewer repairs and less downtime.

Schedule Preventive Maintenance

Don’t wait for things to break. Create a preventive maintenance schedule that includes:

  • Visual checks
  • Fluid testing
  • Seal inspection
  • Pressure monitoring
  • Lubrication schedule

Final Thought: Quality + Maintenance = Longevity

Even the best cylinders can wear out if neglected. At Mishel Hydraulics, we design cylinders for durability—but we also recommend these maintenance habits to help you get the maximum value from your equipment.

Need help with cylinder maintenance or repairs?

Get in touch with our experts today — we’ll help you keep your system running at peak performance.

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