Red Seal Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Practice Exam

What are common symptoms of hydraulic fluid contamination?

1. Increased fuel consumption and prolonged service life

2. Reduced efficiency, unusual noises, overheating, and malfunctioning equipment

3. Improved response time and enhanced lubrication performance

4. Novel sound output and optimized pressure

The correct answer is: Reduced efficiency, unusual noises, overheating, and malfunctioning equipment

The identification of reduced efficiency, unusual noises, overheating, and malfunctioning equipment as common symptoms of hydraulic fluid contamination is grounded in the way a hydraulic system operates. Hydraulic fluid plays a critical role in the transmission of power within hydraulic machinery, and when it becomes contaminated, these systems start to show clear signs of distress. Reduced efficiency arises because contaminants can affect the fluid's ability to transfer force effectively, leading to a loss of responsiveness in the hydraulic system. The presence of dirt, water, or other particulates can create internal wear on components, which further compromises system performance. Unusual noises are indicative of issues such as cavitation or inadequate lubrication, both of which can arise from contaminated hydraulic fluid. When air bubbles form in a hydraulic system or lubrication is compromised due to contaminants, it can lead to increased friction and noise. Overheating is a direct consequence of friction and impaired fluid characteristics. As the fluid degrades, it loses its ability to dissipate heat effectively, leading to elevated temperatures that can damage components and worsen the contamination. Malfunctioning equipment can occur due to sticking valves, pump wear, or clogged filters, all associated with the presence of contaminants in the hydraulic fluid. These issues can cause systems to fail to operate smoothly or even stop