Top 12 tips to maintain your Hydraulic Equipment and keep them working efficiently and lasting longer.

The Hydraulic drive system is one of the most forceful technologies widely used in heavy machinery industries like railroads, mining, transportation, and break and leveling systems on rapid transit vehicles.

The semi-hydrostatic drive system uses hydraulic fluid to power the machines and equipment in many industries. Unlike the other drive systems like electricity, the fluid based hydraulic system is more efficient, powerful and cost effective option.

When it comes to railroad, mining, and transportation industries, the hydraulic system equipment can be a real grind when not maintained effectively. Hydraulic systems are used in heavy equipment in tough, demanding, enviroments and can lead to wear and tear even under optimal conditions.

Hydraulic Cylinders

Vigorous use is common practice in the heavy equipment industries, and the hydraulic system must consistently be dependable and exceed expectations. Proper maintenance is essential for keeping Railroad, Mining, and Transportation Hydraulic Cylinders and Equipment in top notch condition.

Despite the popularity of the electric equipment that uses electricity as a drive system, the hydraulic drive system continues to be the proven choice of the operators and manufacturers.

For engineers and maintenance technicians, the real challenge lies in keeping the hydraulic equipment in top working condition. It is essential to understand the various components in a hydraulic system to easily identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Rapid Rail Transportation, Railroad, & Mining Equipment

Rapid Rail, Railroads, and Mining are some of the best means of transportation not just for the people, but for transporting heavy payloads over long distances.

Mining is one of the largest partners for the railroads. Even in the mining industry, the railroads are widely used for transporting heavy payloads. The reliability and sustainability of the hydraulic powered equipment and break and leveling systems are pre-eminent when it comes to heavy industries.

Railroad Hydraulic Equipment – Rail Crane

Some of the hydraulic equipment uses in the railroad and mining industries are:

• End Cars, Roller Stand Cars, Tiedown Cars
• Single Car Unloaders, Dual Car Unloaders
• Rail Pick Up Units
• Track loaders, wheel loader
• Dump truck
• Rail cart, rail crane and more

Hydraulic equipment can be a real grind

Hydraulic drive systems are widely used for running railroad and mining equipment. Due to heavy use, the hydraulic system can suffer substantial wear and tear. Industry leaders like Bombardier, which offers automated people movers, and General Electric locomotives, which provide locomotive transportation using diesel-driven technology. It is more efficient, cost-effective and fast.

Hydraulic equipment and components are essential for railroad and mining industries. A lot of work is depending on its reliability and companies cannot afford breakdown of the hydraulic units or loss of performance or efficiency.

Hydraulic System

One of the solutions to such problems is regular maintenance of parts and equipment.  You need a technician trained in hydraulics to keep your railroad equipment and parts in the right working condition. Professional maintenance can identify and address critical issues, worn parts and make repairs and maintain hydraulic system on-site.

Equipment Maintenance for assets management

Hydraulic equipment maintenance is an important part of rail and mining asset management. Given the cost of the equipment and machinery in these industries, it is extremely important to have a proficient maintenance program. It helps keep the system efficient, reduces cost and liability.

No industry can survive without proper assets management and it’s fortunate that RL Miller can provide professional services to maintain and control every part, however small or large to keep your project rolling down the tracks.

Look at some of the essential railroad and mining hydraulic equipment and components. These are some of the most important parts of the hydraulic system, which need regular maintenance:

1.Railroad Grinding and Tracks

One of the key components of the railways is the track. Often it can show signs of significant wear and tear. The most common problems you will see is the misalignment, fatigue, reduced efficiency, build-up of rolling contact and noise. They can get warped, go out of alignment and also suffer surface defects like galling and pitting.It is essential to pay attention to rail track for any major or minor issues. These issues can impact efficiency and safety of your railroad equipment. One of the best solutions is rail grinding. It helps address vibration and misalignment problems and improve the rail’s surface and maximize the effect on hydraulic components.

Brush Cutter

Through PA, OH, and WVA, Brush Cutters are common equipment used for clearance and site preparation. They are a very important rail tool that is used to keep the tracks free of vegetation. One of the best features of this railway equipment is that it can work on both sides of the track at the same time, unlike the track or wheel driven machines. They are powered by the hydraulic wheels and are more fuel efficient than the other machines.

2. Hydraulic System failure

No doubt those hydraulic fluid transmission systems are one of the best drive systems for railways, railroads, and mining equipment. But like anything else they too are prone to failure and breakdowns.Hydraulic systems work on the principle where the force is transmitted from one point to another using fluid. This fluid does not lose its volume even in the increased pressure, making it one of the best parts of using the hydraulic system in any industry.

Some of the primary reasons for the failure of hydraulic system:

• Fluid contamination
• Overheating and premature aging of the hydraulic hose
• Abrasions

These are some of the reasons for the failure of the hydraulic system that can lead to slowing down of the entire system. But, it can be fixed with regular maintenance and expert help.

Railroad and mining companies use hydraulic machinery and equipment because this technology offers more power, better efficiency, better performance, low fuel consumption and cost-effectiveness. Protecting the equipment against contamination and hydraulic damage is essential for optimal performance and prolonged life cycle.

3. Detecting and Managing Hydraulic Leak Detection

The hydraulic system is usually robust and efficient offering high performance. But, hydraulic equipment, with regular use, can develop some problems like fluid leakage in the system. Not identifying leaks in the early stage could lead to expensive repairs, downtime, and maintenance cost of the equipment.

4. Hydraulic Fluid

Leaks can result in increased energy consumption, reduced performance, increased fluid and maintenance cost. The challenge for maintenance technicians is to locate and identify the fluid leak. Sometimes, there is no visual indication and the only way to pinpoint the leak is through record keeping and surveillance.Taking accurate reading is essential for record keeping. Through the analysis of records leaks in the system can be identified. Sight glasses are used to for quick and accurate readings of the system in low visibility areas.Liquid Level Sensors are used to monitor and detect fluid in the hydraulic system. This is essential for keeping tabs on hydraulic fluid and its behavior in case there is a leak.

Once a leak is detected, the best solution would be to call RL Miller’s 24/7 Repair and Service Center and speak to a hydraulic technician or schedule a FREE on-site leak detection analysis. Stop the leak with RL Miller’s on-site hydraulic maintenance and equipment repair to keep your hydraulic equipment great condition.

5. New or rebuilt Gearboxes

Gearboxes are one of the most important components of railway hydraulic equipment. Depending on the speed and workload, the gearboxes help control the speed and torque of the vehicle or rail equipment. They are an important part of the railroad cars. Gearboxes are also an essential part of the various railroad and mining equipment.

6. Hydraulic System Gear

Like any other parts, gearboxes in hydraulic equipment can also suffer wear and tear. When the gearbox transmission starts to fail, you have three basic options. You can repair, replace or rebuild the gearbox. Gearbox rebuilding is one of the best options for getting your system back on track with expensive cost. Repair work is also an option. Replacing the gearbox or rebuilding it will depend on the age of your system and the level of wear and tear.

7. Dealing with the issue of Contamination in Hydraulic Equipment

One major causes of failure of hydraulic equipment are contamination of the fluid. Since the fluid is the main component of the system, it is essential to take proper care.Fluid contamination can lead to a wide range of failures in the system including reduced performance, degradation of fluid, internal leakage, excess heat, and a complete breakdown of the system.

8. Hydraulic Fluid Contamination

Railway, railroads, and mining equipment rely on hydraulic components. They are more reliable than any other drive systems and the preferred choice for heavy industries like railroads, mining, and military operations. Continuous use without regular maintenance makes any sealed system vulnerable and opens the door to contamination.

• Identifying the type of contamination and concentration of the contamination is essential for the maintenance of the system.
• Reduction of contamination is a regular part of RL Miller’s maintenance program and essential for keeping the system alive.
• Use of the right hydraulic fluid is essential for operating and maintaining the system.
• Sight gauges are used for accurately measuring the fluid levels in hydraulic system tanks and reservoirs.
• Proper fluid handling and storage is required to keep the hydraulic system equipment efficiency and reduce contamination.
• Regular system maintenance is essential for reducing the fluid contamination.

Breathers in hydraulic equipment are essential for controlling contamination and water from the surroundings. Heat, cold, moisture, and contaminating particles can cause corrosion and diminish fluid performance. Selecting the right breathers for your system is as essential as proper preservation.

9. Repair and Maintenance Service

Repair and maintenance is a central part of the hydraulic equipment. The system cannot run indefinitely without regular repair and maintenance work. Regular cleaning and inspection of the equipment are essential for equipment to run smoothly.

10. Hydraulic System Maintenance Checks

If fitted with a safety valve it would require checking for correct function under pressure and that there is no physical damage.

• The oil filter requires inspection of its condition and possibly replacing if it has been in the system for some time.
• The pump would be checked for mechanical and electrical integrity.
• Check function and physical damage of pressure gauge under pressure.
• Check the physical integrity of the oil reservoir and confirm it is operating at the correct pressure without any leaks.
• Check the hydraulic cylinders for directional operation, drag, or leakage.
• Check the entire hydraulic system: pumps, hoses, valves, components, fittings, for obvious signs of leaks, tears, or ruptures.

RL Miller’s scheduled maintenance and regular repair program is the key to keeping your equipment and system in the best working condition. Following OEM, (Original Equipment Manufacturers) guidelines and specifications are critical for safety and efficiency. Preventive measures must be included in the maintenance program to reduce system failure and maximize performance.

RL Miller LLC specializes in hydraulic systems and fluid powered equipment, helping industries like railroad and mining keep their equipment working day in and day out, without fail.

11. FREE on-site leak detection

RL Miller offers free on-site leak detection service that can help you identify leaks in the hydraulic system. Fluid leaks in the system aren’t easy to trace down, and sometimes there is no visible indication. It is a complex process that requires specific technology, expertise, and experience.We provide Ultraviolet, ultrasonic, and hydraulic fluid leak detection, coolant, and fuel system detection, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair services. Click this link to see an RL Miller LLC demonstration of the Marksman Ultrasonic Diagnostic Tool. This device can find leaks by detecting ultrasonic sound.Our on-site Hydraulic Inspection and Certification Service can help you minimize risks, liabilities, downtime, and equipment failure.

We are an authorized service and repair center servicing industrial machines and equipment from the top name brand in the industry such as Aeroquip, Eaton, Char-Lynn, Donaldson, Dynex, Enerpac, Hydroline, Milwaukee, Nopak, Schroeder, Starcyl, Vickers, and many more.

12. Get Help Fast

Hydraulics is one of the most robust and efficient drive and transmission system used in heavy-duty industries like railway, railroad, highway construction, and oil and gas mining operations, but with enormous power comes the need for regular maintenance. Without a scheduled maintenance program, even sealed hydraulic systems cannot survive harsh condition and aggressive usage in demanding environments.RL Miller LLC specializes in industrial hydraulic & pneumatic parts, tools, preventative maintenance. Diagnosis, detection, repair, maintenance, and replacement are the key components of keeping hydraulic fluid system efficient for the long haul.Get 24/7 on-site inspection and hydraulic system repair for all of your hydraulic equipment. Call Now: 1-800-444-6046.