Extending the lifespan of the cylinder with an overhaul

Regular overhauling of the cylinder is important to ensure optimal function and extend its lifespan. Overhauling also contributes to better predictability, fuel economy, and reduces the risk of leaks, major damage, and costly repairs.

How we at Servi perform overhauling and lifespan extension on a cylinder can be divided into 11 steps:

  1. Preparations
  2. Disassembly
  3. Inspection/measurement
  4. Customer information
  5. Replacement of worn parts
  6. Honing/grinding
  7. Cleaning
  8. Assembly
  9. Testing
  10. Preservation
  11. Surface treatment

Recommended overhaul interval

The recommended time interval for overhauling hydraulic cylinders is often set to 5 years. The working environment, temperature, cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid, and usage affect the lifespan, ranging from a few years to, in some cases, over 20 years. Based on these parameters, one can estimate the expected overhaul intervals.

To increase the lifespan of the hydraulic cylinder, the hydraulic fluid, sealing solution, and rod coating are some of the important parameters that play a role. If we are aware of the challenges the cylinder faces, we can often make adjustments to adapt the cylinder to the environment it operates in.

1. Preparation of the Cylinder to be Overhauled

Before the cylinder is disassembled, we assign it an ID number, and document its visual condition and the location of any components. This ensures that we have full control throughout the entire process.

2. Disassembly

Safety is our highest priority. We ensure that the cylinder is not pressurized before we begin disassembly. If there is suspicion of contamination in the hydraulic fluid, we take necessary samples to detect any impurities.

If there is suspicion of particles, we drain the cylinder through a filter cloth to capture and identify foreign elements. This helps us document the condition and provides important information for further work. We then disassemble the cylinder carefully to avoid damage.

3. Inspection

During disassembly, we perform a thorough visual inspection of all components. We check for wear, damage, and other irregularities, and carefully document the findings for all components. Key dimensions are measured for accuracy. 

4. Customer information

After the inspection, we keep the customer informed about the condition of the cylinder and any necessary repairs. This includes an overview of any additional costs and a plan for further work.

Read more about hydraulic cylinders

We manufacture cylinders, accumulators, and dampers with piston diameters ranging from 20 to 1500 mm and stroke lengths up to 20 meters - in various material qualities - both single-acting and double-acting. Most of what we deliver is customized to the customer’s specifications, but we also have standard cylinders.

5.  Replacement of worn parts

 

We overhaul all types and makes of cylinders and procure spare parts. We replace all necessary wear parts such as seal kits and bearings/bushings with high-quality parts from reliable suppliers. This ensures optimal performance and a long lifespan for the cylinder.

6. Honing and grinding

Honing and grinding a cylinder involves refreshing the surface to restore the smooth and even finish the cylinder had when it was new. This process provides an optimal surface structure, which improves performance and extends the cylinder’s lifespan.
 

 

7. Cleaning

All parts are thoroughly cleaned and carefully dried. We ensure that the parts are kept clean and protected until and during assembly. Any contamination could damage the cylinder and the system it is connected to.

8. Assembly

We assemble the cylinder precisely and thoroughly. During assembly, a final visual check of all components is conducted. Parts are lubricated and secured to ensure easy assembly and optimal function. We document the process with photos to show the quality of our work.
 

 

9. Testing

We perform thorough tests to ensure that the cylinder functions as it should. This includes functional and pressure testing, as well as any other necessary checks to confirm that everything is in order.

10. Preservation

To ensure that the cylinder remains in optimal condition, we perform both internal and external preservation of unpainted surfaces. The preservation is carried out based on how long the cylinder will be stored before it is put into use.
 

 

11. Surface treatment

Surface treatment is carried out as needed and in agreement with the customer/according to customer requirements. We perform surface treatment on all steel and metal items. Surface treatment of cylinders is our most popular service – performed in Rissa. The cylinders range from 1 kg to 35,000 kg.

Sustainable overhauling

Overhauling a cylinder is sustainable in itself, but there are several other environmentally friendly measures that can help protect the cylinder.

  • Salt, airborne dust, and exhaust from vessels and other sources can particularly corrode the cylinder rod if it is exposed to the environment.
  • Maintain control over the cleanliness of the fluid through regular filtration, particle counting, and oil analysis.
  • Protect the cylinder from external damage.
 

 

Contact service

Stig Vebjørn Nilsen
Service manager Rissa
+47 988 05 378
Bjørn Arild Gården
Service manager Trondheim
+47 412 22 197
Niclas Hovden
Service manager Bergen
+47 476 53 240
Erlend Brynildsen
Service manager Ski
+47 916 00 091
Alexander Riise
Service manager Ulsteinvik
+47 975 08 306
Sverre Morten Larsen
Service manager Kristiansand
+47 905 01 034
Espen Hansen
Service and calibration (Test equipment)
+47 900 33 606