Non-Destructive Test Procedure For Hydraulic Cylinders

SET UP

Use care when handling cylinders. A hoist or other equipment must be used for heavier items.
1. Place cylinder on test stand.
2. Install correct fittings into ports.
3. Attach hoses to ports.
4. Set relief valve to operating pressure of cylinder.

STANDARD TEST

Make sure that the relief valve is set for the appropriate level. Fill cylinder with oil by alternately introducing oil into the extend and retract ports. Inspect all parts of the cylinder for leaks or damage.

5. Fully extend rod.

6. Check extend length to print.

7. Wipe rod.

8. Inspect rod for scratches or other damage.

9. Fully retract.

10. Check retracted length to print.

11. Pressurize retract/rod end port to relief pressure and hold.

12. Check for leaks around rod seal, head seal, port welds.

PISTON BYPASS INSPECTION

This test is to determine whether oil is leaking past the piston seals. Such a leak would allow the cylinder to drift while in operation.

13. Check for bypass over piston.

1. Disconnect hose from extend/base port (while retract/rod port is still pressurized).
2. Check for oil flow from extend/base port (should be none).
3. Reconnect hose to extend/base port.

14. Fully extend and pressurize extend/base port to relief pressure and hold.

15. Check for leaks around base and port welds.

16. Check for bypass over piston.

1. Disconnect hose from retract/rod end port.
2. Check for oil flow from retract/rod end port (should be none).
3. Reconnect hose to retract/rod end port.

COMPLETE TEST

Clean up and send to paint booth.

17. Fully retract with air pressure only.

18. Remove hoses and fittings.

19. Turn cylinder over to drain excess oil.

20. Plug ports.

21. Stamp with inspector number when complete and satisfactory.

22. Complete test report.