An overwhelming amount of technical documentation presents valuable advice on such topics as the importance of keeping hydraulic fluid clean and why you should change the filters on a regular basis. These basics are second-nature to most hydraulics engineer and technicians. Although basic practices cannot be overlooked, executing best practices can move hydraulic contamination control to the next level.

Fluid cleanliness. Ensure that any fluid is filtered before it goes into the hydraulic reservoir. Fresh hydraulic fluid often is not clean enough to put into a system. So if you can’t verify that the fluid has been filtered to your system’s specifications, run it through a filter before transferring it into the reservoir.

Monitor fluid condition regularly. This means use laboratory-grade analysis on a schedule determined by the operating conditions, not an arbitrary timetable. Always flush a system to manufacturer’s specifications or in line with ISO standards every time components are replaced or repairs performed.

1. A high-pressure filter with visual and electrical indicator is mounted directly downstream of a pump in the hydraulic system’s HPU. The hydraulic system actuates a weir, or gate, in a dam that lets municipal workers control water level in a small lake.

Filter maintenance. Monitor the filters and change them before they go into bypass mode. Again, this requires a schedule based on the operating conditions, not an arbitrary timetable. Make sure replacement filter elements comply with the original manufacturer’s specifications.

Read more: Best Practices Move Beyond the Basics