What is a common cause of hydraulic system failure?

Contamination of hydraulic fluid is a common cause of hydraulic system failure because it significantly undermines the performance and longevity of the system. Contaminants such as dirt, water, or foreign particles can enter the hydraulic fluid and lead to several issues.

When contaminants are present, they can cause wear on important components such as pumps, valves, and actuators. This wear can lead to leaks and reduced efficiency, resulting in poor system response and potential catastrophic failures. Furthermore, contamination can affect the fluid's lubrication properties, increasing friction and potentially leading to overheating.

In addition, contaminated fluid can create blockages in filters and lines, which can disrupt fluid flow and increase pressure and stress on system components. Therefore, maintaining clean hydraulic fluid is critical to ensuring the reliability and functionality of hydraulic systems.

While excessive pressure fluctuations, improper venting, and mechanical wear of components are also potential causes of hydraulic system issues, contamination stands out as a pervasive issue that can have wide-ranging effects on system health.