Using UV dye for leak detection
Hydraulic leaks can be a real drain on productivity. In addition to impacts on operating costs, hydraulic leaks can lead to several safety issues, including high pressure injection hazards, mechanical hazards, fire hazards and slips, and can contribute to a number of environmental issues.
Common causes of leaks include:
- High pressures
- Extreme temperatures
- Loosened fittings as a result of vibration
- Seal swell, shrinkage or wear
The chart below is used to estimate the cost of leakage as analyzed by drops per second.
Oil Lost from Leakage:
| Leakage | Loss in One Day (Gallons) | Loss in One Month (Gallons) | Loss in One Year (Gallons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| One drop in 10 seconds | 0.1 | 3.4 | 40 |
| One drop in 5 seconds | 0.2 | 6.8 | 81 |
| One drop per second | 1.1 | 33.8 | 405 |
| Three drops per second | 3.4 | 101.3 | 1,215 |
| Drops break into stream | 24.0 | 720.0 | 8,640 |
So, when you identify a leak, it is prudent to stop the leakage at its source. But this isn’t as easy as it sounds.
Typically, operators identify leaks because they observe puddles on the floor. But when taking a closer look at the machine to determine its origin, it can be challenging to identify the true source, as the leakage could be the result of small, pinhole leaks or tiny cracks, and the area in question could be covered in oil, obscuring visual identification of the leak’s source.
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Industrial lubricating oil leakage control
Learn how regularly tracking oil consumption on major reservoirs at high leakage facilities can reduce short-term expenses and improve maintenance control.
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Tips to control oil leaks
How can you prevent oil leaks? These steps will help you gain better maintenance control and reduce lubricant consumption.