Dieseling refers to the explosion of pressurised hydraulic fluid after that fluid mixes with air. This phenomenon can cause extensive damage to hydraulic cylinders. This article discusses how you can prevent dieseling in your hydraulic equipment.

Bleed the Cylinder

Air can be trapped inside a hydraulic cylinder as repairs are conducted on that cylinder. That air can cause the hydraulic fluid to ignite or explode if the piston of the cylinder compresses the trapped air as the hydraulic equipment is operated. It is therefore very important to bleed the cylinder after repairs have been conducted. The fluid that drains out during the bleeding process will expel any air that has been trapped within the system.

Install Anti-Dieseling Rings

Another way to prevent the explosions that result when dieseling occurs is to retrofit anti-dieseling rings on the pistons in the hydraulic cylinder. These rings can be procured from hydraulic supply shops so that a technician installs them during normal maintenance activities on the hydraulic equipment. The rings help to prevent air from getting into the hydraulic fluid as the piston moves up and down. They are, in effect, additional seals within the system.

Monitor Hydraulic Fluid Level

Many dieseling explosions occur when a hydraulic pump is unable to channel sufficient amounts of hydraulic fluid within the hoses and cylinder. That shortage may be due to a leak that depletes the fluid reserves. A vacuum is created as the pistons pressurize the limited hydraulic fluid within the system. Air is then sucked into the cylinder in order to fill this vacuum. That air mixes with the fluid until the saturation point is exceeded. The excess air forms bubbles that explode as more pressure is exerted within the system. You can prevent this problem by checking the level of the hydraulic fluid before the equipment is used. Any leaks should be repaired before the equipment is taken back into service.

Replace Seals Regularly

The rods in hydraulic cylinders have seals that help to prevent a backflow in hydraulic fluids as the pistons move up and down. Over time, those seals wear out and allow hydraulic fluid to seep out from the edges of the seals. Those tiny gaps can also allow air to enter the system. Thus, it is important to inspect the seals and replace them frequently so that the entire system remains airtight.

Work with your hydraulic cylinder repair technician to implement the measures above. You may then notice that your equipment will have fewer hydraulic cylinder failures during its service life.