The Impact of Excavator Hydraulic Oil Entering Water: Prevention and Solutions

Water entering the hydraulic system of an excavator can lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. Despite the hydraulic system being sealed, water ingress is still possible due to various factors such as environmental conditions, mechanical failures, and inadequate waterproof measures during maintenance. In this article, we will explore the effects of hydraulic oil entering water, how to deal with this issue, and preventive measures to minimize the risk of water ingress.

Effects of Hydraulic Oil Entering Water: When water mixes with hydraulic oil, several detrimental effects occur:

1. Impaired Lubricity: The presence of water in hydraulic oil significantly reduces its lubricating properties, potentially leading to increased friction and wear within the system.

2. Accelerated Component Wear: Water dissolved in hydraulic oil speeds up the wear of high-stress components, diminishing the service life of bearings and other critical parts.

3. Chemical Reactions: Water reacts with hydraulic pressure to form acids, colloids, and sludge, further degrading the hydraulic oil and potentially causing damage to the system.

4. Emulsification and Deterioration: Water contamination can cause the precipitation of additives in hydraulic oil, leading to emulsification and severe deterioration of the oil's quality.

5. Corrosion: Significant water ingress can corrode metal components within the hydraulic system, posing a safety risk and potentially compromising the integrity of the system.

6. Operational Issues: Water can cause control valves to stick, erode low-pressure parts, and weaken hydraulic pressure in the working device, resulting in failures, increased fuel consumption, and reduced performance.

Solutions and Preventive Measures: To prevent excavator hydraulic oil from entering water and mitigate the associated risks, the following steps should be taken:

1. Timely Water Drainage: Regularly release water by opening the water valve every three days to remove accumulated moisture from the hydraulic system.

2. Install a Dryer: For excavators operating in humid and watery regions, install a dryer on the breathing hole of the hydraulic oil tank to prevent water vapor from entering the system.

3. Enhance Sealing Measures: Implement effective sealing measures for hydraulic pumps, valves, cylinders, and other components to prevent moisture ingress. Increase the use of waterproof sealing devices where necessary.

4. Waterproof Maintenance: During maintenance, particularly in rainy conditions, take precautionary measures to prevent water from entering the system. Avoid replacing hydraulic components or hydraulic oil on rainy days whenever possible.

Conclusion: Understanding the consequences of excavator hydraulic oil entering water is crucial for equipment owners and operators. Swift action is necessary to address water ingress, as it can cause severe damage to the hydraulic system and its components. By adhering to preventive measures, such as regular water drainage, dryer installation, enhanced sealing, and waterproof maintenance practices, the risk of hydraulic oil water ingress can be significantly reduced. Proactive efforts will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of excavators, avoiding costly repairs and downtime.