What type of maintenance is critical for hydraulic systems?

Regular fluid level checks and changes are essential for maintaining hydraulic systems due to the nature of how these systems operate. Hydraulic systems rely on fluid to transmit power. The fluid must not only be maintained at the proper level but also kept clean and free from contaminants because any degradation in the fluid can lead to a loss of efficiency, increased wear on components, and potential system failure.

Monitoring fluid levels ensures that sufficient hydraulic fluid is present to allow for effective operation and prevents air from entering the system, which can cause cavitation and damage components. Additionally, regular changes of the hydraulic fluid help to remove particulates and prevent the breakdown of the fluid itself, which could compromise the entire system over time.

While visual inspections are important, they alone do not provide the detailed understanding needed to maintain hydraulic systems effectively. Aesthetic repairs do not contribute to the functionality and reliability of the system, and only addressing repairs when a malfunction occurs can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and safety hazards. Therefore, emphasizing regular fluid checks and changes is the most critical type of maintenance for hydraulic systems.