Hydraulic station accumulator disassembly and maintenance

What does a hydraulic accumulator do?

A hydraulic accumulator is used for one of two purposes: to increase the system’s volume at a very high pace or to absorb stress. Its precharge determines the function it will carry out. If the accumulator is utilised to add volume to the system, its precharge must be slightly below the maximum system pressure to allow oil to enter.

How should a hydraulic accumulator be positioned?

Insure the hydraulic fluid is compatible with the accumulator seals/elastomers. The accumulator should be positioned as near as practical to the source of shock/pulsation, or potential energy need. Porting/piping should be matched as closely as possible to insure free flow of hydraulic fluid in and out of the application system.

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)

Do hydro-pneumatic accumulators contain pressure?

Always consider any accumulator to contain pressure until proven otherwise. Any accumulator stored with internal pressure shall be tagged to indicate the presence of gas pressure. All hydro-pneumatic accumulators function due to the diferential pressure between the compressed nitrogen gas and the stored hydraulic fluid.

How should a hydraulic accumulator port/piping be matched?

Porting/piping should be matched as closely as possible to insure free flow of hydraulic fluid in and out of the application system. Insure the porting/piping is appropriate for the MAWP of the system. Vertical orientation of accumulator with fluid port down is preferred.

Are accumulators dangerous?

Accumulators can be the most hazardous hydraulic components in the mill, not because they are intrinsically harmful but due to a lack of comprehension. Regardless of their function, all hydraulic accumulators store energy and must thus be treated with respect. Accumulator Functions