Service life of hydraulic accumulator

How long does a hydraulic accumulator last?

The typical design life for a hydraulic accumulator is 12 years. All pressure vessels, including accumulators, are considered to have a finite service life depending on the number of pressure cycles experienced during normal operation. In many jurisdictions, periodic inspection and recertification is required.

Do hydraulic accumulators need to be inspected?

Yes, hydraulic accumulators need to be inspected. For example, the correct gas pre-charge pressure must be maintained for proper functioning and optimum service life. Additionally, periodic inspection, testing, and certification may be required by law, as accumulators are considered pressure vessels.

Are hydraulic accumulators a maintenance item?

While accumulators are a maintenance item, they provide numerous advantages in hydraulic system operation, such as energy storage and reserve, leakage and thermal compensation, shock absorption, and energy recovery. They can provide many years of trouble-free service.

Are hydraulic accumulators safe?

Hydraulic accumulators are pressure vessels and must be treated accordingly. Only trained and qualified individuals should perform installation and maintenance procedures on any accumulator. Always wear personal protective equipment (safety glasses and chemical resistant protective gloves, if necessary)

What is a hydraulic accumulator?

Crosssectional views of typical bladder and piston hydropneumatic accumulators. Accumulators store pressure in a reservoir in which hydraulic fluid is held under pressure by an external source. That external source can be a compressed gas, a spring, or a weight.

What is required by law for accumulators?

Periodic inspection, testing and certification can be required by law - accumulators are pressure vessels after all. For example, the correct gas pre-charge pressure must be maintained for proper functioning and optimum service life.