How can you detect an internal leak in a cylinder?

Detecting an internal leak in a hydraulic cylinder can often be effectively achieved by identifying hot spots. When a hydraulic cylinder has an internal leak, the fluid bypasses the seals and creates friction within the cylinder itself. This friction generates heat, which can lead to localized "hot spots" on the cylinder's exterior or nearby components.

When the temperature rises beyond normal operating levels, it is indicative of inefficiency in the hydraulic system due to the internal leak, allowing for a clear diagnosis of the issue. This method is particularly useful in scenarios where fluid levels do not visibly decrease but operational performance suggests a loss of power or efficiency.

While other methods may provide insights or confirm suspicions of leaks, such as visual inspection revealing signs of wear or listening for unusual sounds indicating mechanical issues, hot spots directly correlate the operational inefficiencies to the internal leak in the hydraulic system. This makes monitoring temperature a crucial diagnostic tool in maintaining and troubleshooting hydraulic equipment.