Eaton Corporation and Fluid Power Hydraulics evaluate Oilgear failure on 80 ton broach.

Production Managers at Eaton Corp. recently found themselves with an inoperative broach. Eaton's Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Fluid Power Hydraulics were called to evaluate the broach and found that one of the two Oilgear D pumps that supply hydraulic power to the broach had failed. The ERT removed the Oilgear D pump and shipped the pump to Fluid Power for further evaluation. Fluid Power technicians discovered that the failure had been catastrophic.

Cavitation (the introduction of air into the hydraulic circuit) was found to be the cause of failure. Lack of lubrication allowed the piston to wear against the piston block and become fixed in its bore, destroying the rotating components of the pump.  At this point, contamination throughout the system became a major concern. The ERT members and the Fluid Power technicians worked together to determine the best course of action, and after careful consideration it was decided that the second Oilgear pump would be sent to Fluid Power and the broaches reservoir and plumbing would be disassembled and cleaned. The Oilgear D pumps were treated to extensive rebuilds and rigorous testing. Once Fluid Power technicians gave the green light, both Oilgear D pumps were shipped back to Eaton Corp. and placed back into service immediately. Installation was straight forward and the pumps will deliver years of trouble free service.

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“I have been impressed time and again with the quality and speed of service that I receive from Fluid Power, and their assistance after the sale has been appreciated." JPI – Choctaw Oklahoma