Why Do Excavator Track Rollers Leak Oil: Causes and Solutions

Excavators are heavy machinery equipment, and rollers are one of their key components. The main function of bottom rollers is to support the track system and ensure that the track runs smoothly during operation. The normal working state of rollers is directly related to the operating efficiency and safety of the entire excavator. However, roller oil leakage is one of the common faults encountered by many excavator operators and maintenance personnel. Solving this problem is crucial to extending the service life of the excavator.

Overview of track roller oil leakage

Excavator track roller oil leakage usually refers to the failure of the sealing system of the roller, resulting in the leakage of lubricating oil. Lubricating oil is essential for the normal operation of rollers. It can not only reduce friction, but also effectively reduce the wear between the rollers and the tracks. Oil leakage usually leads to insufficient lubricating oil, which accelerates the damage and wear of the rollers, and ultimately affects the working performance of the entire excavator.

Reasons for oil leakage from rollers

Aging of seals
The sealing system of rollers is mainly composed of sealing rings, oil seals, etc. With long-term use, the seals may lose elasticity due to high temperature, vibration or material aging, resulting in a decrease in sealing effect, which in turn causes oil leakage.

Too much or too little lubricating oil
Too much or too little lubricating oil may cause oil leakage from rollers. If too much lubricating oil is added, the internal pressure is too high, and the seals cannot withstand the pressure, which is prone to leakage. On the contrary, if there is too little lubricating oil and there is a lack of sufficient lubrication, the internal friction of the rollers will increase, which is also prone to oil leakage.

External debris enters the sealing system
During operation, dust, mud and other debris may enter the sealing components of the rollers, damage the surface of the sealing rings, and cause a decrease in sealing performance, thereby causing oil leakage.

Damage or excessive wear of rollers
Due to long-term high-load work, the rollers themselves will also be worn or damaged. If the rollers are deformed or the internal structure is damaged, the sealing system cannot be maintained in good condition, and the oil may leak out.

How to deal with the problem of oil leakage on the rollers

Replace damaged seals
When the rollers are found to be leaking oil, first check the degree of damage to the seals. If the seals are aged or broken, they should be replaced with new ones immediately to restore their sealing function.

Adjust the amount of lubricating oil
Check whether the amount of lubricating oil on the rollers is normal. If the amount of oil is too much or too little, the problem can be solved by draining or adding appropriate lubricating oil. Check the oil amount regularly to avoid malfunctions caused by improper oil amount.

Clean the sealing system
In the case of harsh working environment, the sealing parts of the rollers should be checked regularly to ensure that no debris enters. Clean the surface of the sealing ring and oil seal to keep them in normal working condition.

Check the rollers themselves
Check whether the rollers have obvious damage or wear. If the rollers are already severely worn, they may need to be repaired or replaced to prevent the oil leakage problem from happening again.

Daily maintenance recommendations

Check the seals and lubrication system regularly
During daily use, regularly check whether the seals of the rollers are intact and whether the lubricating oil is sufficient. Keep the lubrication system running properly to avoid oil leakage due to lack of oil or damaged seals.

Avoid working in harsh environments
When working in dusty or muddy environments, take measures to prevent debris from entering the sealing parts of the rollers. Clean the dirt and debris around the rollers regularly to protect the seals from damage.

Reasonable lubrication
Check the type and amount of lubricating oil regularly according to the equipment manual. Use lubricating oil that meets the standards and ensure that the amount of filling meets the requirements to reduce the risk of oil leakage.

Replace damaged parts in time
If the sealing system or other parts of the rollers show signs of wear or damage, they should be replaced in time to prevent small problems from becoming big and avoid oil leakage.

The problem of oil leakage on the rollers is common and has a serious impact, but by timely discovery and effective treatment, its impact on the working performance of the excavator can be greatly reduced. Understanding the cause of the oil leakage and taking appropriate repair and maintenance measures can extend the service life of the rollers and ensure the efficient operation of the excavator. Regular inspections, reasonable maintenance and a good working environment are the best ways to prevent oil leakage.