What happens if a hydraulic seal fails?

When a hydraulic seal fails, the most significant consequence is fluid leakage, which can lead to a decline in system pressure and performance. A seal's primary function is to keep hydraulic fluid contained within the system, preventing it from escaping. When the seal is compromised, fluid can leak out, resulting in a drop in pressure that can impair the operation of hydraulic components such as pumps, cylinders, and motors.

Moreover, the loss of hydraulic fluid can lead to contamination of the system and can create a potential hazard in terms of safety and maintenance. In severe cases, extended system failure may occur if the leakage is not addressed, leading to costly repairs and downtime. Hence, fluid leakage and the potential for overall system failure is a direct and critical outcome of hydraulic seal failure, highlighting the importance of maintaining seal integrity in hydraulic systems.