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Hydraulic Accumulator: What Does It Do and How to Test It?
Hydraulic Accumulator: What Does It Do and How to Test Its Condition?
The Pressure "Bomb" That Protects Your Machine
Do you hear a characteristic "ticking" or "hissing" for a few seconds after turning off the engine in your JCB or Volvo excavator? Have you noticed that the hydraulics have become "hard" and jerky in response to joystick movements? These could be symptoms of problems with the hydraulic accumulator. This inconspicuous, canister-like component is actually a "bomb" charged with energy that performs several extremely important roles in the system. Its failure not only worsens operator comfort but can lead to serious damage.
Main Functions of a Hydraulic Accumulator
The task of hydraulic accumulators is to store hydraulic energy. By buffering and stabilizing the pressure in the system, the entire system operates more efficiently and smoothly. Here are its 4 key roles:
- Energy Storage: It stores oil under pressure to release it at moments of peak demand, thus assisting the hydraulic pump.
- Shock Absorption: It acts as a "cushion" in the system, absorbing sudden pressure spikes that occur, for example, when a cylinder stops abruptly. This protects hoses, the pump, and seals.
- Emergency Power Supply: This is a crucial safety feature. The stored energy allows the excavator's arm to be lowered to the ground even after an engine failure.
- Leakage and Volume Compensation: In some systems, it maintains constant pressure, compensating for minor internal leaks, for example.
Types of Hydraulic Accumulators
In construction machinery, we mainly encounter three types, differing in their internal construction:
- Bladder Accumulators: The most popular in construction machines. They consist of a shell containing a flexible rubber bladder filled with nitrogen. As oil enters the accumulator, it compresses the bladder, storing energy.
- Diaphragm Accumulators: The gas is separated from the oil by a flexible diaphragm. Due to their simple construction and fast response, they are excellent as pulsation dampeners in smaller systems.
- Piston Accumulators: A free-floating piston separates the gas from the oil. They are characterized by high efficiency and resistance to high pressure.
Symptoms of Accumulator Failure
Accumulator failure most often involves the loss of the nitrogen pre-charge due to a ruptured bladder/diaphragm or a leaking valve. How to recognize it?
- "Hard" and "Jerky" Hydraulics: This is the number one symptom. Every joystick movement is abrupt, and stopping a cylinder causes a strong jolt throughout the machine. This means the accumulator has stopped dampening pressure spikes.
- No Emergency Power: The arm cannot be lowered to the ground after the engine is turned off. This is a critical safety check!
- Frequent Relay "Clicking": In some systems, like the brake systems on CAT machines, a failed accumulator causes the pump to constantly cycle on and off to maintain pressure.
- Foamy or Hot Oil: Nitrogen that has escaped from a ruptured bladder mixes with the oil, causing it to foam and degrade.
How to (Safely) Check an Accumulator's Condition?
WARNING: ALWAYS RELEASE PRESSURE FIRST!
Before performing any work on a hydraulic accumulator, you must release the pressure in the hydraulic system (lower all attachments to the ground and move the joysticks with the engine off).
The most reliable method is to check the nitrogen pre-charge pressure. You will need a special charging and gauging kit with a pressure gauge for this.
- Locate the gas valve on the accumulator (usually under a protective cap).
- Screw on the charging kit and slowly open its valve to read the pressure on the gauge.
- Compare the reading with the value specified on the accumulator's nameplate or in the machine's service manual.
If the pressure is zero, the bladder or diaphragm has ruptured. If it is significantly lower than nominal, there is a slow gas leak. In both cases, the accumulator requires immediate service.
Having hydraulic problems? Don't ignore the symptoms!
A functional accumulator protects the pump and cylinder seals from damaging pressure spikes. Our offer includes complete accumulators, charging kits, and replacement parts (bladders, diaphragms). Remember, a clean system is essential – ensure you use high-quality REDX filters and reliable VICORTEX cylinder seals. Contact us!
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