Troubleshooting a Home Hydraulic Check Valve

A hydraulic check valve is basically a mechanical system involving a steel ball in a conical seat that restricts flow in one direction all the time; this means flow of hydraulic fluid in a particular system can only travel in one direction. This is particularly pertinent in systems that have parts that could be damaged if they come into contact with the flow of hydraulic fluid. Therefore, it is vital to ensure the valve is working.

Instructions

1

Identify the direction of flow of the valve; the valve will have an "A" and a "B" port or an arrow showing the direction of flow. This is an important indication -- look at the engineering drawing of the machine to which the valve is attached; look at the direction in which the hydraulic fluid flows.

Ensure the valve is installed in the correct direction of the flow. If it isn't, the valve must be re-installed to negate any problems (see "Warnings").

2

Check the machine drawings for the working pressure of the valve. Once noted, remove the hydraulic hose at the inlet or "A" side of the check valve and attach the 5,000 psi (pressure per square inch) gauge using the correct adapter to the inlet hose of the valve.

Compare the readings from the pressure gauge to those of the drawing. This will indicate whether the circuit has the correct working pressure. If not, then repairs will have to be carried out.

3

Start the equipment and check for leaks from the hose. This indicates a degree of either structural damage or loose installation. Either way, repairs will have to be carried out for the valve to work correctly.