The role of a hydraulic press in every applicable industry is very crucial. The entire production of the facility will be greatly affected if the press fails to deliver maximum output. This is because the hydraulic press is a machinery that is important for performing key operations like punching, deep drawing, molding, forging, and more. To maximize accuracy, precision, and durability of the hydraulic press, it is important to maintain the system properly. This blog includes more details on hydraulic press maintenance.

Hydraulic presses are available in different categories with varying features. The maintenance procedure required for these presses will also vary based on the construction and working principle. The common failures and its corresponding symptoms associated with each hydraulic press will be different. Most of the manufacturers will provide a maintenance procedure sheet with the purchased hydraulic press. We suggest following the original maintenance procedure from the manufacturer if it is available. The manufacturers will be having an overall idea of what all are the common problem associated with their press and how to troubleshoot those issues. This is why we prefer to use the manufacture’s maintenance suggestions.

Before understanding about press maintenance, we can learn about common hydraulic press problems and their reasons. Oil leakage, overheating, slow pressure built-up, abnormal noise, and cylinder drift are usual problems associated with the hydraulic press. Damaged or defective components, loss of lubrication, overfilled reservoir, insufficient pressure, electrical problems, wrong assembly of parts, contamination, etc… are major reasons that lead to system failure.

Also Read: Construction and Working of Hydraulic Press

Hydraulic Press Inspection

Regular inspection of the hydraulic press will help to improve the performance of the system. Also, identifying the problems as early as possible will reduce the risk of complete system failure. The following are the different inspections that need to be done on the hydraulic press.

• Inspect the hydraulic line for oil leakage
• Inspect the oil level in the reservoir/tank
• Check the hoses for abrasion
• Check whether the machine parts are properly lubricated
• Inspect the ram for drifting
• Check for overheating and overpressurization
• Check the tightness of fasteners, mounting bolts, adaptors, etc…
• Check any improper noises occurs while hydraulic press operation.

Preventive Maintenance on Hydraulic Presses

Keeping the hydraulic press in good working conditions is the primary task of the press operator/technician. To ensure the smooth working of the system, it is important to know the features of the hydraulic press you are using. Strange noises, vibration, and leakage are easily identifiable symptoms of system failure. Early detection and correction of these problems will prevent complicated and costly repairing. Some important preventive maintenance tips are noted below:

• Use new, clean, and compatible hydraulic oil as prescribed
• Protect the system from contaminants(dirt, dust, and other foreign particles). Filtering the oil and preventing the entry of contaminants into the system is important.
• Bleed the system if air molecules are present or piston is jerky.
• Prevent oil leakage by properly placing the seals, packings, fittings, and plugs.
• Don’t over stroke the press.
• Check all table pins and pinholes of table and Frame

Oil Maintenance

Monitoring the health of hydraulic oil is very crucial. Not only for hydraulic press, but it is also necessary for every hydraulic system we use. The quality and quantity of oil need to be maintained properly. The cooler in the system will protect the oil from overheating. The oil will lose its properties over continuous usage and at this point, it needs to be replaced. Mixing of two oil is not suitable and it increases the risk of contamination.