How to Store Hydraulic Breakers Properly: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage
Proper storage is critical for maintaining hydraulic breaker performance and longevity. When stored incorrectly, breakers can suffer from seal degradation, nitrogen loss, piston corrosion, and hydraulic contamination – leading to costly repairs. Follow these professional storage guidelines to protect your investment.
Pre-Storage Maintenance
A. Thorough Cleaning
o Remove all dirt/debris from:
o Tool bushing area
o Hydraulic connections
o Accumulator housing
B. Fluid Management
Action
Detail
Change hydraulic oil
Prevents acidic breakdown contaminants
Grease tool bushing
Use lithium-complex grease (EP2 grade)
Check nitrogen pressure
Maintain 14-16 bar (200-230 psi)
C. Piston Protection
o Cycle piston to mid-stroke position before storage
o Apply rust inhibitor (like WD-40 Specialist Corrosion Inhibitor)
Ideal Storage Conditions
Location Requirements
Factor
Recommended Standard
Temperature
-10°C to +40°C (14°F to 104°F)
Humidity
Below 60% RH (use desiccant if needed)
Ventilation
Avoid sealed plastic – promotes condensation
Security
Lockable area to prevent theft
Positioning Guidelines
· Best: Hang vertically (tool pointing down)
· Alternative: Place on wooden pallet (never concrete floor)
· Never: Store upside-down – causes oil migration to accumulator
Long-Term vs Short-Term Storage
Short-Term (Under 30 Days)
Actions:
o Cap hydraulic ports
o Cover with breathable tarp
o Check Weekly: Nitrogen pressure + exterior moisture
Long-Term (30+ Days)
Task
Frequency
Cycle piston
Every 2 weeks
Recharge nitrogen
Monthly
Inspect seals
Quarterly
Special Climate Considerations
Cold Weather Storage
Risk: Frozen moisture in hydraulic system
Solution:
o Replace oil with low-temperature
o Install silicone gel breathers on ports
Coastal/Humid Areas
o Risk: Salt air corrosion
o Protection:
Apply lanoline-based coating to exposed steel
Use VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) emitter strips
Reactivation After Storage
Pre-Start Checklist
1. Verify nitrogen pressure
2. Inspect hoses for cracks (flex test)
3. Purge hydraulic system (5-minute idle run)
4. Check tool bushing clearance (max 0.5mm wear)
Common Post-Storage Issues
Problem
Likely Cause
Fix
No impact force
Nitrogen leakage
Recharge + test seals
Hydraulic foaming
Water contamination
Full oil change
Sticking piston
Surface rust
Polish with 600-grit emery cloth
Proper hydraulic breaker storage:
Prevents 80% of offseason damage Extends service life by 2-3 years Reduces startup repair costs by 60%
Yantai Rocka Machinery Co., Ltd. is the leading manufacturer of excavator attachment equipments in China, providing state-of-the-art ROCKAGE hydraulic breaker, quick hitch coupler, vibratory plate compactor, ripper, hydraulic post drivers... Rocka Machinery was founded in 2009.
