EX-60 Excavator Hydraulic System Air Problem Troubleshooting and Solutions

[MikePhua]

In everyday operation, an excavator’s hydraulic system may experience air infiltration, which can affect the system's performance, causing sluggish operation or even damaging the hydraulic system. Specifically, in the case of the EX-60 excavator, air entering the system can cause "floating" symptoms, affecting machine efficiency. This article will explore the possible causes of air problems in the EX-60’s hydraulic system, the troubleshooting steps, and solutions for addressing the issue.
1. Causes of Air in the Hydraulic System
Air infiltration into the hydraulic system can lead to unstable system pressure, overheating of hydraulic oil, and other performance issues. Common causes of air problems in the EX-60 excavator’s hydraulic system include:

• Low Hydraulic Oil: Insufficient hydraulic oil can allow air to enter the hydraulic lines, which disrupts the flow of the oil and leads to unstable operation.
  
• Contaminated Hydraulic Oil: If the hydraulic oil is contaminated or of poor quality, it can form foam, allowing air to enter the system.
  
• Damaged Seals: If seals in the hydraulic system, such as those in the cylinders or pumps, become worn or improperly installed, they may allow air to enter the system, reducing hydraulic performance.
  
• Leaks in Hydraulic Lines: Loose fittings or damaged hydraulic lines can result in air being sucked into the system, causing air fluctuations within the hydraulic fluid.
  
• Pump and Valve Malfunctions: Failures in the hydraulic pump or control valves may allow air into the hydraulic system due to internal faults or wear.
  

2. Troubleshooting Steps
To address the air infiltration problem in the EX-60 excavator’s hydraulic system, follow these troubleshooting steps:

• Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Start by checking the hydraulic fluid level. If the fluid level is low, add the appropriate amount of hydraulic oil to ensure that the system has enough fluid for stable operation.
  
• Inspect Hydraulic Oil Quality: Check the quality of the hydraulic oil to ensure it is clean and free of contaminants. If the oil is dirty, foamy, or degraded, replace it with fresh, clean hydraulic oil and clean the hydraulic tank and lines.
  
• Examine Seals and Line Connections: Check for worn or damaged seals in the hydraulic system, especially around cylinders and pumps. Ensure that all hydraulic lines and fittings are tightly connected and do not leak. Tighten any loose fittings or replace damaged hoses and lines.
  
• Check the Hydraulic Pump and Valves: Inspect the hydraulic pump and control valves for any signs of wear or malfunction. If the pump or valve is faulty, replace the defective components to prevent air from entering the system.
  

3. Solutions
Based on the troubleshooting results, the following solutions can address the air issue in the EX-60 hydraulic system:

• Add or Replace Hydraulic Oil: If the hydraulic fluid is low or contaminated, top up or replace it with the correct hydraulic oil. Use oil that meets the machine’s specifications to avoid issues with the hydraulic system.
  
• Replace Damaged Seals: Replace any worn or damaged seals in the system. Ensure that all seals are installed correctly and are in good condition to prevent air from infiltrating the hydraulic system.
  
• Repair or Replace Hydraulic Lines: If any hydraulic lines are damaged or worn, replace them with new hoses. Tighten any loose connections to prevent oil leakage and maintain stable hydraulic pressure.
  
• Repair or Replace Hydraulic Pump and Valves: If the hydraulic pump or control valves are malfunctioning, repair or replace the faulty components. Make sure all parts of the hydraulic system are functioning properly to maintain stable fluid pressure.
  

4. Preventive Measures
To prevent air problems in the hydraulic system from recurring, users should consider the following preventive measures:

• Regularly Check Hydraulic Oil and Components: Periodically check the quality and level of the hydraulic oil to ensure it is clean and within the proper range. Also, inspect hydraulic system components, such as seals and hoses, to ensure they are in good condition.
  
• Use Quality Hydraulic Oil: Using high-quality hydraulic oil will reduce the risk of contamination and help maintain the stability of the hydraulic system.
  
• Conduct Regular Maintenance: Regularly perform maintenance on the hydraulic system, checking for potential issues and addressing them promptly before they lead to bigger problems.
  

5. Conclusion
Air problems in the hydraulic system of the EX-60 excavator can cause instability in machine operation and may even damage the system if left untreated. By regularly checking hydraulic oil levels, inspecting hoses, seals, and hydraulic pumps, and promptly addressing any issues, you can improve machine efficiency and reliability. Proper maintenance, the use of high-quality hydraulic oil, and early detection of problems are crucial to keeping the hydraulic system running smoothly and extending the machine's lifespan.