Changing the hydraulic oil in an excavator – how often should it be done?

Changing the hydraulic oil in excavator is one of the responsibilities of the owner of the machine to keep it efficient and safe to use. Changing the oil is generally a low-cost maintenance operation and should be done regularly as otherwise the consequences could be serious.

Why is it so important to change the hydraulic oil in excavator?

Hydraulic oil can be compared to automotive engine oil: the oil undergoes a natural aging process due to its use and contact with air. Consequently, it no longer has its original properties and can no longer provide optimal lubrication of the excavator components. The hydraulic oil is oxidized and becomes dirty. Dirt shedding from the oil causes an increase in friction, as a result of which working parts wear faster. The oil filter becomes clogged, which reduces the efficiency of the filtration process.

Oil filter

Along with an oil change, a filter change should also go hand in hand, as the filter also has a specific service life. It performs a very important function, namely it is responsible for protecting the machine system against dirt or premature wear. A heavily soiled filter does not work effectively, does not catch particles from the oil as effectively as new one. In addition, a dirty filter impedes the flow of oil, which translates into the use of more fuel.

How to choose the right oil and how often to change it?

The type of oil, parameters and frequency of replacement should always be specified by the manufacturer of the machine. If you use a different oil than the one recommended by the brand, follow the recommendations of the fluid manufacturer. Only then are we able to keep the excavator in great condition for a long time. The most common frequency of hydraulic oil change is 3000 mh. You should not save on replacing filters and oil, they should be high-quality products. Let’s not forget that hydraulic fluids work under very high pressure. It is why the requirements for them are so high.

Wrong oil selection can have serious consequences. Oils that are used in older machines should not be used in new machines. This is due to the fact that they are not adapted to work in such difficult working conditions.

The owner of professional construction machinery should know very well how important it is to change the hydraulic oil regularly. Failure to do so can result in numerous unpleasant and costly situations. In order to prevent various types of failures, it is worth remembering about replacing operating fluids. In addition, after each repair of the hydraulic system, it should be cleaned, then filled with new oil and new filters installed. If the service underestimates the need to remove impurities. Then the mere change of oil and filters is pointless – it only generates additional costs. This will allow the long-term use of the excavator without major problems.

Sources:

https://remar. pl/jak-czesto-wymieniac-olej-hydrauliczny-w-koparce/
https://serwiskop .wordpress.com/2017/06/05/jak-czesto-wymieniac-olej-hydrauliczny-w-koparce/
https://wibako. pl/dlaczego-warto-pilnowac-terminowej-wymiany-oleju-hydraulicznego-