
6
F. Sound Levels
Although system noise levels can be reduced by modifying
pump design, fluid conditions also play a major part in
reducing system noise levels.
Some of the major factors affecting the fluid conditions that
cause the loudest noises in a hydraulic system are:
1. Very high viscosities at low start-up temperatures can
cause pump noise due to cavitation.
2. Running with a moderately high viscosity fluid will
impede the release of entrained air. The fluid will not be
completely purged of such air in the time it remains in the
reservoir before recycling through the system.
3. Aerated fluid can be caused by ingestion of air
through the pipe joints of inlet lines, high velocity discharge
lines, cylinder rod packings or by fluid discharging above the
fluid level in the reservoir. Air in the fluid causes a noise
similar to cavitation.
G. Overload Protection
Relief valve limit pressure in the system to a prescribed
maximum and protect components from excessive pressure.
The setting of the relief valve depends on the work
requirements of the system.
H. Start-Up
With a minimum drive speed of 600 RPM, a pump should
prime almost immediately if provision is made to initially
purge the air from the system.
Failure to prime within a reasonable time may result in
damage due to lack of lubrication. The pump housing must
be filled with fluid and inlet lines must be tight and free from
air leaks. It may be necessary to crack a fitting on the outlet
side of the pump to purge air trapped in the system.
Section V –Service and Maintenance
A. Circuit Inspection
Periodic inspection of the fluid condition and tube or pipe line
connections can save time-consuming breakdowns and
unnecessary parts replacement. the following should be
checked regularly:
1. All hydraulic connections must be kept tight. A loose
connection in a pressure line will permit the fluid to leak out.
If the fluid level becomes so low as to uncover the inlet pipe
opening in the reservoir, extensive damage to the pump can
result. In suction or return lines, loose connections permit air
to be drawn into the system resulting in noisy and/or erratic
operation.
2. Clean fluid is the best insurance for long service life.
Therefore, the reservoir should be checked periodically for
dirt or other contaminants. If the fluid becomes contami-
nated, the system should be drained and the reservoir
cleaned before new fluid is added.
3. Filter elements also should be checked and replaced
periodically. A clogged filter element results in a higher
pressure drop. This can force particles through the filter
which would ordinarily be trapped, or can cause the by-pass
to open, resulting in a partial or complete loss of filtration.
4. Air bubbles in the reservoir can ruin the pump and
other components. If bubbles are seen, locate the source of
the air and seal the leak.
5. A pump which is running excessively hot or noisy is a
potential failure. Should a pump become noisy or over-
heated, the machine should be shut down immediately and
the cause of improper operation corrected.
B. Adding Fluid to the System
When hydraulic fluid is added to replenish the system, it
should always be poured through a clean wire screen (200
mesh or finer) or preferably pumped through a 10 micron
(absolute) filter.
It is important that the fluid be clean and free of any sub-
stance which could cause improper operation or wear of the
pump or other hydraulic units. Therefore, the use of cloth to
strain the fluid should be avoided to prevent lint getting into
the system.
C. Adjustments
No periodic adjustments are required, other than to maintain
proper shaft alignment with the driving medium.
D. Lubrication
Internal lubrication is provided by the fluid in the system.
Lubrication of the shaft coupling should be as specified by
their manufacturers. Coat shaft splines with a dry lubricant
(Molycoat or equivalent) to prevent wear.
E. Replacement Parts
Reliable operation throughout the specified operating range
is assured only if genuine Vickers parts are used. Sophisti-
cated design processes and material are used in the
manufacture of our parts.