How to troubleshoot hydraulics using an infrared heat detector

Nov. 11, 2013

You can use an infrared heat detecting gun to troubleshoot a hydraulic system.

Our website contains dozens of articles about troubleshooting hydraulic systems. In fact, I recently finished posting a series of articles called, "Think First, Then Troubleshoot!" This series explains how troubleshooting requires a systematic approach to identify and correct the source of malfunctions, not just treat symptoms.

Troubleshooting requires tools to assess the condition of a hydraulic system by reading pressure, flow, and temperature. Monitoring temperature can help you gain an overall idea of what's going on in a system, but an infrared heat detector can provide specific information — information that can pinpoint the source of problems.

To learn more, read the article I just posted by clicking here. The article was orignially published several years ago, but the techniques described in it are just as useful today.

About the Author

Alan Hitchcox Blog | Editor in Chief

Alan joined Hydraulics & Pneumatics in 1987 with experience as a technical magazine editor and in industrial sales. He graduated with a BS in engineering technology from Franklin University and has also worked as a mechanic and service coordinator. He has taken technical courses in fluid power and electronic and digital control at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and the University of Wisconsin and has served on numerous industry committees.

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