Hydraulic Equipment Accessories for the Construction Industry

Whether your operations are focused on lifting, pulling, pushing or tensioning, you’ll need a hydraulic pump to drive the process. Hydraulic pumps are a central part of the hydraulic unit, and they must be paired with the following parts to power their function:

• Hydraulic hoses – Hydraulic hoses are responsible for conveying pressurized hydraulic fluid from one part of the system to the next. As such, durability is the most important feature in a hydraulic hose. To ensure your hoses are compatible with your operations, pick a material that will not react to the type of hydraulic fluid you’re using. Other important considerations are the hose’s thermal properties (heat resistance), flexibility and compatibility with your hydraulic couplings.
  
  
• Hydraulic fittings and couplings – Hydraulic fittings and couplings are the connection point between different parts of the hydraulic system. They’re typically paired male-to-female for quick and simple connections. If your hydraulic equipment is developing leaks, the couplings should be one of the first things inspected. When selecting hydraulic fittings and couplings, the most important consideration is whether the coupling is compatible with your existing fittings.
  
  Other considerations include the coupling’s pressure rating, chemical resistance, thermal properties and flow capacity.
  
  
• Hydraulic filters – Every hydraulic system relies on filters built into the hydraulic pump and filters installed directly in one or more lines. Hydraulic pump filters include suction strainers, low- and high-pressure filters, spin-on and cartridge bowl (disposable) filters and breather filters. Each of these filters are used in different capacities, but all can play a vital role in protecting your hydraulic equipment. When outfitting your hydraulic system with filters, consider the work conditions your hydraulic pumps and cylinders are likely to face in the field. If fine contaminants are expected – dirt and moisture specifically – ensure your pump’s breather cap is in good shape and that your system has the filtering capacity it needs to screen out fine particulates. You may need to identify an appropriate disposable, in-line filter to maintain hydraulic fluid quality or establish a kidney loop filter to maintain maximum uptime.
  
  
• Hydraulic seals – Hydraulic seals are some of the most frequently replaced hydraulic equipment accessories in the construction industry. Designed to take on the brunt of the system’s wear and protect mating surfaces, hydraulic seals, O-rings and wear rings protect the hydraulic pumps or cylinders more valuable components.
  
  Hydraulic seals include pump case seals, piston seals, rod seals, wiper seals, O-rings and wear rings. It’s highly recommended that construction companies keep a deep inventory of hydraulic seals on hand, as they wear through faster than all other hydraulic accessories.
  
  
• Hydraulic valves – Hydraulic valves are the traffic cops for your hydraulic system, directing flow through the system and ensuring efficient power delivery. The primary valve in every hydraulic system is the control valve, which must be properly selected and calibrated for your system. Other common hydraulic valves include relief valves and flow control valves, which are used to maintain proper pressures and direct flow to various system components and actuators.
  
  Some construction operations utilize valves with integrated solenoids. These allow for remote valve control, which means better efficiency and safety.
  
  
• Hydraulic pressure gauges and sensors – Hydraulic pressure gauges and sensors are essential monitoring and troubleshooting components, providing at-a-glance information about the system’s performance and operating safety. When a hydraulic system experiences pressure or flow-related issues, your pressure gauges and sensors can help operators quickly isolate where the problem is emerging and take immediate steps to prevent a dangerous (and expensive) failure. Choose fluid-filled hydraulic pressure gauges, as these provide a clearer reading when your equipment is affected by vibration.