FAQ
Questions our customers frequently ask, otherwise feel free to contact us with any other questions.

Hydraulics Systems

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Hydraulic Components

Filters, valves, pumps, cylinders and condition monitoring equipment. All you have ever wanted to modify, replace or include in a new system, with experienced applications support. Call today for details.

  • Why is filtration important in hydraulic systems?

    Contamination can cause blockages in finely toleranced components, which may lead to component failure or the creation of more contamination.

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  • Where does contamination come from?

    Contamination can be inherent in the system when it is first built, in the first fill of oil, when the system is maintained, through reservoir breathers or cylinder rods. Once within the system and unfiltered, it can create other contamination and greatly increase the risk of plant failure.

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  • What is the most effective location for a filter?

    Filters can be located in many positions within a hydraulic and lubrication circuit. The best position would be where the flow is stable and constant. However filters should be positioned to protect key circuit components such as pumps and valves.

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  • What is the micron rating of a filter?

    The micron rating relates to the size of particles, that the filter will remove from the system. A 10 micron filter will remove either a small proportion or the majority of 10 micron size particles from the system, depending whether the rating is nominal or absolute.

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  • What do the nominal or absolute ratings mean?

    A nominal rating means that the filter will allow up to 50% of the particles, of the nominated micron size, will pass the filter. An absolute rating means that 99.999% of particles will be captured within the filter.

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  • What effect does water have on hydraulic systems?

    Water, in mineral oil systems is a contaminant, and hence can damage components by reducing the lubrication characteristics and load bearing capabilities of the oil. Components can also rust and generate further contamination.

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  • How can I remove water from my system?

    Small amounts of water, less than 0.5% volume, water removal filters can help. Parker supply a great range of water removal elements and MP Filtri supply proactive dessicant breathers. There is help to prevent water ingress and the removal of water when it is in the system. High concentrations of water will require the use of a vacuum dehydrator unit.

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  • Can I replace competitors filter elements with the Parker and MP Filtri range?

Yes you can. Donaldson have a wide range of high quality replacement elements that will ensure your system is filtered efficiently, at a competitive price.

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  • Can the filters be used on other fluids?

    Yes they are typically used on mineral based oils, used in hydraulic and lubrication systems. Some filters can be used for fuels and synthetic based oils, such as those for fire resistant applications. If you are in doubt give us a call and we can select the most suitable product for your application.

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  • How can oil analysis benefit my plant?

    You will know what contaminants are in your hydraulic system. If they are above expected levels then you can act accordingly. Trending the readings can help in failure prediction. Analysis of the fluid characteristics tells you whether the additive package is intact and protecting your system. Analysis can prevent routine changing of oil, saving costs in purchasing new and disposing of the old.

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  • Is oil analysis the only method for determining hydraulic system condition?

    Oil analysis is useful because it can indicate contaminant generation and contaminants can cause failure. To get a true indication of wear, particulate levels should be trended. There are other methods; such as pump efficiency tests and cycle timing, which can be used to determine the condition of components or whole systems.

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