Leaks in hydraulic systems   can happen all too easily, but they are usually visible in the hoses that deliver the fluid or at the connections between different parts. Constant vibration in the system can cause hoses to wear or split and pipes to crack, cylinders can leak due to worn seals. When hydraulic fluid leaks, less fluid is available to generate power, reducing the system’s effectiveness. Generally, leaks are usually small and will not immediately stop the machinery from working altogether.  The longer the leak continues this can result in long-term damage.

A hydraulics system produces force by using fluids that are not compressed. A liquid cannot be compressed because it has a fixed volume; exerting even a small amount of pressure generates a force that can be used to push objects. Obvious indicators such as levels of fluid, the machine is not performing, as it should, pools of fluid beneath the equipment, point to a leak. Poor pressure, machinery getting hotter than usual, unusual noises are all indicators of malfunction. Leaks are a common cause and its best to look for these before taking machinery apart.

If there are no glaringly obvious cracked or split pipes that need replacing, you can always use a multi-purpose UV dye that can be mixed with hydraulic oil. The dye does not interfere with the normal activity of the circuit liquids and safe to leave inside the circuit of a system making it suitable for hydraulic systems, to identify where the leak is coming from.

Once you have confirmed the leak is small, judged by the rate of loss of the fluid, then the second option to fix the leak is to use a hydraulic leak stop. This is a special formulated treatment that flows through the circuit with the hydraulic oil and revives hardened, deformed, and worn gaskets to their original states and the operator can keep working while the product fixes the leak. With its recommended dosage of 60 ml for every litre of hydraulic oil, this product is easy to use and can help extend the life of your equipment. When hydraulic leak stop is injected into a hydraulic system, it travels through the system until it reaches the point of the leak. Once a leak is found the sealant begins to build a seal, preventing further fluid loss. The sealant is flexible and able to withstand the pressure and temperature of the hydraulic system, remaining in place for a long period.