If you use a variety of equipment on your construction sites, chances are that at least some of them depend on hydraulics to operate. As part of their operation, the hydraulic fluid helps to keep the pressure built up within the closed system and allows for efficient, smooth operation. If this fluid starts leaking, the equipment will no longer operate normally, so you need to be on the lookout for the issue.

While external leaks are often easy to recognize, those that are occurring within the system can be difficult to find. Below are a couple of signs that your construction equipment's hydraulic system is leaking fluid internally.

1.  Cylinder Rods Hesitate or Are Sluggish While in Motion

One sign that your equipment is leaking hydraulic fluid internally can be ascertained by observing the cylinder rods. These rods move through the fluid in the cylinder to maintain the pressure and keep the machinery operating at optimal levels.

However, if one of the cylinders is cracked or a gasket is broken, fluid will start to leak. Because of the low fluid levels, the rods will no longer move smoothly. They will appear to hesitate while they are pumping inside of the cylinders, or they will start to move sluggishly.

2.  Loud Noises Are Present While the Hydraulic System Is Operating

Along with the erratic movement of the rods, another sign that the hydraulic fluid is leaking inside of the system is loud noises that are heard whenever the machinery is in operation. Normally, you may hear a humming sound. However, if the fluid level is low, the pistons' movement through the cylinders will churn the fluid, creating bubbles. As the pistons strike these bubbles, the displacement of air through the fluid will cause a loud banging noise. This also creates friction within the cylinder because of the decreased levels, creating more bubbles and louder noises.

If you hear loud noises coming from the equipment while noticing that the cylinder rods are sluggish or hesitant while in motion, there is a good chance that hydraulic fluid is leaking somewhere inside of the system. If the leakage is allowed to continue, the equipment may stop working efficiently because of lack of pressure, or the friction may cause it to fail completely. Before this happens, contact a machine shop in your area that offers hydraulic repair services to have them locate the leak and take steps to fix the issue.

To learn more, contact a company like Certified Products Inc.