How to Troubleshoot Faulty Operation in Hydraulic Construction Equipment
Construction equipment, such as excavators, has so much power that any fault in their operation can result in extensive injury or damage to property. It is therefore vital that all operators are able to identify the cause of any malfunction quickly so that appropriate remedial action is taken. This article discusses some of the causes of faulty operation in hydraulically operated excavator attachments, such as augers. Use this information to help you to decide the best course of action when the equipment exhibits signs of faulty operation.
No Movement of the Attachment
The hydraulic attachment on the construction equipment may fail to move due to several factors. The first likely cause could be a clog blocking the flow of hydraulic fluid. You can confirm that this is the problem by checking the hydraulic fluid filter of your equipment. If it is dirty, clean it or replace it with a new one. The problem could also be due to an electrical failure in which commands from the controls of the equipment cannot reach the servo. This problem may require you to check the fuse box of the equipment in order to find out if there is a blown fuse. You may also need to check the wiring for any signs of damage, such as fraying. Repair or replace blown fuses and any damaged wires.
Erratic Movement of the Attachment
The attachment may move erratically due to a number of reasons. The first reason could be a lack of lubrication. Contaminated hydraulic fluid can also cause the attachment to move erratically. This is because particulates in the fluid can hinder the flow of adequate fluid throughout the equipment. The hydraulic pump may also be wearing out. This may not be the case if the problem has just suddenly manifested. Lubricate your equipment and use a dipstick to find out the condition of the hydraulic fluid. It may have been contaminated by water if it is milky. It may be degraded if it is so dark that it appears to be black. Drain and replace the fluid if you see any anomaly in its appearance.
Excessive Attachment Movement
The excessive movement of the hydraulic attachment may also concern you after you move the controls slightly. This problem can be due to excessive fluid flow in the equipment. This excessive flow may be the result of the installation of a wrong hydraulic pump when the equipment was repaired previously. Adjust the fluid control mechanism to the settings recommended by the manufacturer of your equipment. You can also remove the pump and replace it with the correct unit in case maintenance records show that the pump doesn't have the correct specifications.
Some of the corrective measures above may be beyond the capacity of a novice hydraulic equipment operator. Contact hydraulic repair professionals for help in case you lack the skills to diagnose and repair a defect in your equipment.
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