Lesson No 31 Fail safe and safety systems in hydraulic and pneumatics

Introduction

The components of hydraulic and pneumatic circuits are normally designed with simplicity, ease of maintenance and adaptability point of view. It is having   a number of considerations which improves the reliability and field performance of the system. A fail safe  device is  that which even get failed but  responds in such a manner that it  will cause no harm or least harm  to other devices of the system or sub system.

Fail safe devices

Fail safe devices are those  which even get failed but  responds in such a manner that it  will cause no harm or least harm  to other devices or  the system / sub system etc. These may be actuator, valves, etc.

Safety in Hydraulics

Consider the following points while observing the safety of a hydraulic circuit-

  • Do not crack a  hydraulic connector for finding the  pressure, flow, etc. in a  hydraulic system.

  • Do not leave or test  a hydraulic system or component to atmosphere, partially or fully  open a transmission line to atmosphere.

  • Do not have the air bleeding in a hydraulic component or system to atmosphere

  • Provide safe-T bleed in the hydraulic systems which is a safety device.

  • Skilled and trained workers are to be put  on and around hydraulic systems from safety point of view.

  • Park the hydraulic machines beyond the reach of children.

  • Lower the machines to the ground before leaving the machines.

  • Do not service the hydraulic system when motor or engine is running.

  • Do not remove the cylinder until the working units are resting on the ground.

  • Relieve the hydraulic pressure and discharge the accumulator before disconnecting oil lines

  • Ensure there is no leakage and all the lines connections are tight.

  • Make use of hoist or jacks to remove the heavy components of hydraulic system.

Safety in Pneumatics

Consider the following points while observing the safety of a pneumatic circuit-

  • Operate the  pneumatic system within operating range of pressure

  • While under pressure do not disconnect the lines.

  • Do not activate the compressed air until all the line connections are complete.

  • Take precautions while switching on the compressed air

  • Make use of shortest lines possible.

  • Make use of safety glasses

  • Switch off the compressed air before repairing or dismantling the circuit.

Last modified: Thursday, 27 March 2014, 10:40 AM