Excessive nitrogen in hydraulic accumulator

What are hydraulic accumulators & nitrogen?

In hydraulic systems, engineers often rely on hydraulic accumulators and nitrogen to address various challenges such as energy storage, pressure regulation, and shock absorption. Nitrogen, a prominent element constituting approximately 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere, plays a vital role in hydraulic systems, particularly in hydraulic accumulators.

What happens if the nitrogen accumulator is too high?

Excessive Nitrogen Pressure: On the other hand, if the nitrogen pressure inside the accumulator becomes too high, it can cause damage to the hydraulic system. In this case, check for possible overcharging of nitrogen and release pressure if necessary.

What happens if the nitrogen accumulator is not charged?

Insufficient Nitrogen Pressure: If the accumulator does not maintain the required nitrogen pressure, it can lead to decreased performance and inefficient hydraulic operation. To troubleshoot this issue, check for leaks in the nitrogen charging system and ensure the proper procedure for charging the accumulator is being followed.

How does nitrogen escape from a hydraulic accumulator?

Over time, nitrogen can slowly escape from the accumulator due to permeation through the accumulator’s elastomer bladder or diaphragm. Without regular maintenance, the nitrogen pressure in the accumulator can drop, affecting its ability to provide the necessary energy storage and stability for the hydraulic system.

Can accumulator nitrogen charging cause hydraulic problems?

Nitrogen is typically used to provide the gas pressure inside the accumulator, and if there are problems with the nitrogen charging process, it can result in various hydraulic problems. There are several potential issues that can arise with accumulator nitrogen charging, and troubleshooting these issues is essential for finding a resolution.

What pressure should a nitrogen accumulator be pre-charged to?

Having the pressure of the nitrogen gas pre-charged to the correct level is critical to proper operation. This is determined by the amount of hydraulic pressure set at the pump to control the hydraulic cylinders. The pre-charge level of the accumulator should be set to 65% of this level.