Local filter design and manufacturing company Filter Focus’s Seal Saver cylinder cover, launched last month, helps extend hydraulic seal and cylinder life at least threefold and protects seals and cylinders from the dirt and debris in the harsh African environment, says Filter Focus COO Craig FitzGerald.

He tells Engineering News that the Seal Saver is a breakthrough in preventive main-tenance tools, which helps prevent cylinder rod scoring, lessens dings and dents caused by falling debris and prevents pitting corrosion, owing to exposure to chemicals.

Further, the product reduces the risk of oil leaks and particle contamination of the hydraulic system, which reduces downtime and lowers repair costs, explains FitzGerald.

“The product prevents silt-sized particles from entering the hydraulic system through the rod seals. If these tiny particles get into the system, they can act as a lapping or grind-ing compound, causing wear to valves and pumps. Eventually, this will damage the hydraulic system,” he says.

The Seal Saver is heat, oil, chemicals and water resistant and overcomes a variety of hydraulic and air-cylinder rod maintenance challenges. The unit has been incorporated as a preventive maintenance tool in several industries, including oil and gas, construction, mining, waste management and quarrying, as well as at wood product manufacturers, refineries and marinas.

It is manufactured by US-based hydraulic systems filtration and preventive maintenance company Fluid Control Services and has been on the US market since 1998. The cover incorporates a wraparound design and Velcro closure system that allows the unit to be installed without having to disassemble the cylinder, FitzGerald points out.

“Once the Seal Saver is installed, it opens and closes like an accordion as the cylinder moves,” he notes.

The Seal Saver can be reused after the hydraulic cylinder has been replaced, FitzGerald says, adding that it lasts for more than 25 years.