What is a common maintenance procedure for hydraulic systems in ships?

Fluid replacement is a fundamental maintenance procedure for hydraulic systems in ships because the hydraulic fluid plays a critical role in the operation and reliability of the system. Over time, hydraulic fluid can degrade due to contamination from particles, moisture, heat, and chemical reactions. This degradation can lead to reduced efficiency, increased wear on components, and potential system failures. Regularly replacing the fluid helps maintain optimal performance by ensuring that the hydraulic system operates with clean, effective fluid, which is vital for proper pressure and control within the hydraulic circuits.

While other maintenance procedures like lubrication schedules, component adjustment, and sealing checks are important, fluid replacement directly addresses one of the primary concerns in hydraulic system maintenance—maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the hydraulic fluid itself.