You’ll know that hydraulics are used within your heavy machinery systems to generate, control and transmit power by using pressurised liquids. But do you know how to spot the signs of a hydraulic leak and how to fix a hydraulic leak if you experience one?

Find out what causes a hydraulic leak, the main symptoms of a leak and how to fix hydraulic leaks in our guide below.

Find out more about our range of hydraulic parts and hoses here.

What are the causes of a hydraulic leak?

The main cause of hydraulic leaks within your machinery is wear and tear. Hydraulic hoses are designed and manufactured to withstand high-pressure hydraulic systems (hydraulics can exert up to 10,000 psi) and are reinforced for the job, however they will break down over time and need to be replaced. Over time, hoses can split and crack as a result of the high hydraulic pressure.

Seals and gaskets will also wear down over time, and this can cause fluid to leak. O-rings, for example, are designed to withstand high pressure environments, but they will need to be replaced over time to keep a tight seal.

Other connectors that connect all of the hydraulic parts within your system can even come loose due to the high levels of machine vibration, also leading to hydraulic leaks.

Top 3 signs of a hydraulic leak

So, what are the top symptoms of a hydraulic leak that you should look out for?

1. Puddles of fluid – if you notice pools of fluid collecting beneath your machinery, it’s a clear sign that your hydraulics are leaking! Depending on the type of fluid used, it will usually be odourless.
2. Falling fluid levels – monitor the reservoir to accurately assess how much fluid is leaking.
3. Poor performance – if you notice insufficient pressure, unexplained noises or high fluid temperatures, it could be sign of a hydraulic leak and that levels are getting too low.     

How to fix a hydraulic leak in your machinery

Now that you’ve identified a hydraulic leak in your machinery, how can you fix it?

Tip: Ensure that repairs are carried out in a clean area. This will prevent dust, dirt and debris getting into the hydraulic system.

You’ll need to depressurise the system before manually inspecting it. Adequate protective gear should be worn, including thick gloves and eye protection. Never work on a hot system (this avoids the likelihood of explosions or burns).

To find the location of the leak, check all of the connectors, seals and joints to identify which parts might be faulty and causing the hydraulic leak. Loose fittings should be tightened if they’re undamaged, but any damaged seals or hoses must be replaced and they will have reached the end of their lifespan.

If your hydraulic system is particularly complex, it may be best to consult a trained professional.

Why is it important to fix hydraulic leaks sooner rather than later?

As soon as you suspect a hydraulic leak, it’s important to take action. A loss of hydraulic fluid can damage your hydraulic pump, and will inevitably lead to more costly and extensive repairs. Essentially, a hydraulic leak will become more expensive the longer it’s left, and there’s also the issue of downtime and project deadlines to consider.

It’s also important to fix a hydraulic leak as soon as possible because leaking fluid can be hazardous to the local environment if it gets into the ground and water systems, particularly if you’re using hydraulic fluids that contain synthetic additives.

How Jaytrac can help

Looking for replacement hydraulic parts and hoses? Jaytrac has you covered, stocking a wide range of quality replacement parts for your hydraulic systems. We supply parts for Caterpillar, Komatsu and Volvo heavy-duty machines, including hydraulic cartridges, gear pumps, hydraulic cylinders and seal kits.

For more information on our wide range of products, don’t hesitate to contact us on +44 (0) 1604 491133 or email us at  sales@jaytrac.co.uk. Alternatively, fill out a contact form with details of your enquiry and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.