For many types of applications, particularly when there is a need for a lift that is higher than the length of the cylinder, using a telescopic hydraulic cylinder offers a very workable solution.
As with any type of cylinder, when properly designed and manufactured these are a highly reliable, durable and long lasting component. Unfortunately, many equipment operators make common mistakes that can lead to a shorter cylinder life cycle or cylinder failure.
Failing to Monitor Hydraulic Oil
Hydraulic oil is specially formulated with different additives that maintain the system and allow the cylinder to operate smoothly. It also protects the surfaces of the cylinder from corrosion, pitting and other types of damage. This is also the case with the filters in the system that may fail to trap debris in the oil, resulting in damage.
Over time and with use, the oil and additives breakdown, no longer providing the required protection. While the oil will come with recommended usage hours before service, it is still a good idea to routinely monitor the condition of the oil, particularly with heavy and continual use.
Overheating
With continual operation, it is possible for a telescopic hydraulic cylinder and the hydraulic oil and other components to overheat, particularly in hot environmental conditions either indoors or outdoors.
Overheating will impact the quality of hoses and seals in the telescopic hydraulic cylinder and the full system. This, in turn, can lead to faster than average replacement times for these components. It may also result in a leak that goes undetected, resulting in low oil levels throughout the system.
With mobile types of machinery and equipment such as dump trucks, buckets or other types of extended platforms, moving the equipment with the cylinder extended and under load, or even empty, can put additional stress on the components of the cylinder, resulting in bends and twist that will impede operation.
