What happens if the hydraulic fluid becomes contaminated?

When hydraulic fluid becomes contaminated, it introduces particles, water, or other substances that can significantly affect the system's performance and longevity. Contaminants can lead to increased friction between moving parts, which accelerates wear and tear on components such as pumps, valves, and actuators. The resulting wear can produce additional debris, compounding the problem and potentially leading to critical equipment failures.

Moreover, contamination can disrupt the fluid’s lubricating properties. As components wear down, they may become less effective or entirely inoperable, necessitating costly repairs or replacements. Thus, maintaining the cleanliness of hydraulic fluid is essential to ensuring that components operate efficiently and have a long service life.