Fix It, Don’t Nix It

Cylinder repairs can save a company approximately 40 to 50 percent of the cost of a new unit. This is a substantial savings considering that new hydraulic cylinders can cost upwards of $100,000, depending on the application. Although a large portion of the savings comes about as a direct result of using many of the existing parts in the repair process, it does not compromise the quality of the cylinder but can actually enhance the life of the unit. Each cylinder receives a thorough inspection at the start of the repair process to determine the overall condition of the unit.

During this phase, technicians check to see if there has been any stress placed on the unit from excessive side loads, improper mounting, fluid contamination or a defective seal. All welds are also dye tested for stress cracks. This procedure enables the technician to determine the possible cause of the failure and make the necessary corrections in the repair process, which will restore the unit to a better than new condition. This is also a time when a determination can be made to assure that the cylinder is the proper fit for the application. In comparison, buying a new cylinder will not address the specific technical or design flaws that led to the failure.

During the repair process, defective parts are replaced. The cylinder body is bored and honed if necessary—rods straightened, OD re-chromed, end caps reworked and seals replaced or upgraded if possible. “One of the advantages to repairing a cylinder,” says Mark Cook, vice-president of Yates Industries, “is that if a rod has to be machined and rechromed, we will increase the layer of chrome from 1/1000th of an inch upwards to 4/1000th thousandths—a process that enhances the surface hardness of the rod and performance life of the cylinder. All repaired cylinders are brought back to like new OEM condition and are warranted for workmanship and material.”

In the end, establishing and following a comprehensive maintenance program is key to maximizing the performance and useable life of your hydraulic cylinders. However, when they do wear out, take time to consider repairing them, which in the long term could save you time and money.
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Article provided by Yates Industries.