When operating an excavator, one of the most important components for efficiently digging and lifting material is the arm stick dipper cylinder. These hydraulic cylinders attach to the dipper stick or second arm of the excavator and control the depth and reach of the bucket. With wear and damage, arm stick dipper cylinders can cause issues like jerky motions, decreased accuracy and uneven lifting – impacting productivity and efficiency.
What Arm Stick Dipper Cylinders Do?
The arm stick dipper cylinder, also sometimes called a dipper ram or dipper bucket cylinder, is located where the excavator’s boom arm attaches to the dipper stick. It extends and retracts the dipper stick to manipulate the bucket, allowing the operator to:
- Regulate digging profundity – Extending the dipper stick decreases the bucket whereas retracting elevates it.
- Gain access to obstructions – A longer extension reaches barriers that are farther away.
- Grab material -Retracting the cylinder elevates and retains material in the bucket.
- Empty the bucket – Completely retracting the cylinder empties the contents.
Well-functioning arm stick cylinders provide smooth, precise control of digging depth and allow the bucket to move fast enough to maximize work output. They must withstand the heavy loads and impacts from material as well as vibrations from continuous usage.
Common Issues With Arm Stick Dipper Cylinders
Over time and with heavy usage, arm stick cylinders can begin to wear and malfunction, leading to:
- Leaking hydraulic fluid – Worn seals or damaged rod glands result in hydraulic leaks that squander fluid and diminish pressing.
- Uneven extension/retraction – The scored or galling rod or braces hinder smooth, equilibrated motion.
- Jerky motions – Damaged or worn internal parts cause erratic motion rather than a smooth stroke.
- Difficulty achieving full stroke – Debris accumulation within the cylinder or scored rod constricts how far the cylinder can extend or retract.
- Inability to maintain position – A leaky cylinder can not uphold hydraulic pressing to maintain the dipper stick in place.
- Requires excessive force – Friction from wear on rod seals makes extending and retracting the cylinder difficult.
All of these issues reduce the productivity, performance and service life of the excavator. When hydraulic leaks, jerky motions and limited strokes develop, it becomes time to purchase new arm stick dipper cylinders.
Buying Replacement Arm Stick Dipper Cylinders
Key factors to consider when buying replacement dipper stick cylinders include:
- Pressure rating – Matching the operating pressure of the excavator’s hydraulic system.
- Rod length – Equal to the stroke length needed to function properly within the excavator boom.
- Cylinder bore size – Corresponding to the size required based on the excavator model.
- Matériel – Typically steel for strength and durability.
- Scellés – Choosing seals designed for high loads, dirt, impacts and vibrations.
Looking for high-quality, OEM standard or heavy-duty aftermarket options can extend the life of replacement arm stick dipper cylinders. Durable parts and construction, leak-free performance and smooth control of digging depth are the sign of well-functioning cylinders that maximize productivity.