The Importance of Hydraulic Spreader Maintenance
Hydraulic spreaders are frequently used in applications where failure is not an option. Whether it’s used to lift a heavy piece of machinery, separate pipeline flanges, or rescue someone trapped in a wrecked vehicle, hydraulic spreaders must apply force reliably.
This starts with on-time preventative maintenance. It also relies on responding promptly to any signs of equipment failure. Here, we’ll address what that looks like in practice, and how operator teams can ensure their hydraulic spreaders get the job done.
Proper Operation Will Protect a Hydraulic Spreader's Performance
The first step in maximizing spreader reliability – and longevity – is ensuring proper equipment operation. When operator teams skip critical steps during lifting or spreading – that’s when safety issues, accidents, and equipment failures are most likely to occur.
In addition to keeping the work area clear (anything that breaks off may become a lethal projectile during spreading), the following operation steps are essential to protecting the spreader from damage:
- Verifying that hose connections are in place and tight – During operation, any poorly tightened or fitted connections will represent a weak spot in the hydraulic system. This weak spot may produce a leak or burst when placed under pressure. As such, operators should verify every coupler and connection before pressurizing the system.
- Employing proper cribbing practices following a lift – If the spreader is used in lifting applications, it should never be used to maintain a lift indefinitely. Instead, proper cribbing processes should be observed, which involves inserting a block to hold up the load following lifting.
- Ensuring there is a preventative maintenance system in place – The best way to protect your hydraulic equipment is with preventative maintenance, and the best way to ensure on-time maintenance is to track tool usage. By tracking spreader usage, your operators will know which tools are due for service, ensuring they receive that service on schedule.
These are a few operation-based tips to maintain tool condition, but hydraulic maintenance goes beyond proper operation.
Signs That a Hydraulic Spreader Needs a Thorough Inspection
Eventually, preventative maintenance won’t be enough to prevent an imminent hydraulic spreader failure. Consult with your spreader’s instructional manual to determine ideal service intervals – typically between three and 12 months, depending on the frequency of use and operating conditions.
Occasional expert maintenance is essential for spotting any emerging issues before they cause downtime. A hydraulic power tool expert can also provide replacement parts during maintenance services – which are often necessary for preventing catastrophic equipment failures.
It’s possible, though, that your spreaders will show signs of problems before they experience a total failure. Some of those warning signs include:
- Visible signs of damage – Hydraulic spreaders are most susceptible to damage on the arms, though the equipment’s hardware and connections may also sustain damage if proper storage and handling procedures aren’t observed. If there are signs of damage, the spreader should be professionally inspected before further use.
- Fluid leaks – If leaks emerge when the system is under pressure, this could be a sign of a loose connection, or it could be a sign of an internal leak inside the tool. If leaks persist after checking all connections, it’s time to have the tool professionally checked.
- Loss of pressure or force application – One of the first signs of hydraulic equipment trouble is a reduction in operating efficiency, speed or capacity. If your spreader’s arms open slowly or cannot extend fully, it could be an internal leak or a valve issue. In both cases, a professional inspection is recommended.
- Unusual noises – Rattling, growling or banging noises may indicate trapped air or other contaminants. This may indicate contamination, likely air, but debris may also be the culprit. It’s important to have the spreader broken down if unusual noises are present, as internal wear could be behind the problem.
If any of these present, continuing to operate the spreader may pose a risk to your teams. Have the equipment inspected and serviced by a trusted hydraulic machinery expert to resolve any doubts about performance or safety.
Preventative Maintenance Steps for Hydraulic Spreader Equipment
Preventative maintenance ensures your hydraulic tools remain in safe, efficient operating condition. Much like preventative vehicle maintenance keeps your car on the road, preventative maintenance keep your tools in the field.
Most manufacturers recommend a round of expert preventative maintenance at least once a year. However, many important preventative maintenance tasks can be handled by your operator teams. These tasks will prolong the tool’s life and capabilities.
Some of these basic preventative maintenance steps include:
- Inspecting the spreader arms, hoses and connections – After every job, check the spreader arms for any signs of damage. Any scoring, pitting, dents, fracturing or cracking should be noted. If any are present, the tool will likely need repair from a certified technician.
- Cleaning the equipment following each use – Following every spreading application, give your hydraulic equipment a wipe down and verify that it’s going back into storage clean.
- Tightening all hardware – Occasionally, torque the spreader’s hardware to ensure all fasteners are sufficiently tightened. It’s also a good idea to check the couplers and hose connections to verify that they are interfacing tightly.
- Pressurizing the system and noting any problems – Prior to every project, hydraulic spreader systems should be pressurized to ensure everything is in good working order. If the system fails to smoothly and reliably achieve rated pressures, further inspection is required.
A Hydraulic Power Expert Can Keep Any Team’s Hydraulic Spreaders Performing Reliably
Hydraulic spreaders are subjected to extreme loading and operating conditions, both of which may damage the tool’s ability to perform. On-time preventative maintenance – provided by both in-house personnel and a trusted hydraulic expert – is key to stopping any performance issues in their tracks.
If your hydraulic tools haven’t received expert attention in a year or more, they could already be developing downtime-causing issues. Work with a reputable hydraulic power tool expert to resolve any issues and protect your operations.