Accumulators Maintenance & Testing

While accumulators offer numerous benefits in hydraulic system operation and can deliver many years of reliable service, they do require regular maintenance. For instance, maintaining the correct gas pre-charge pressure is essential for optimal performance and to extend their service life. Excessive pre-charge of a bladder accumulator can cause the bladder to be driven into the poppet assembly during discharge, leading to significant damage to both the poppet and the bladder itself. This is one of the most common causes of bladder failure in hydraulic systems. When the bladder gets trapped or compressed in the poppet, it can rupture or deform, requiring replacement and causing system downtime. On the other hand, low or no pre-charge in the bladder accumulator can also have severe consequences. Without sufficient pre-charge, the accumulator may not store enough hydraulic fluid, resulting in poor system performance or failure to operate effectively. Low pre-charge can cause the bladder to overextend, reducing its lifespan and leading to potential leakage. Both excessive and inadequate pre-charge levels can significantly affect the reliability and efficiency of the accumulator, making it crucial to maintain proper pre-charge pressure for optimal performance.