Before operating any hydraulic system, what are the two essential checks you must perform?

Before operating any hydraulic system, what are the two essential checks you must perform?

• A. Inspect for leaks and ensure fluid level and cleanliness
• B. Verify filtration and that safety/pressure relief devices are set
• C. Check battery charge
• D. Both A and B

Answer: (D)

Before operating a hydraulic system, you must ensure it is ready to run safely by confirming both cleanliness and proper pressure protection. The best approach is to perform two checks: first, inspect for leaks and verify the fluid level and cleanliness so the pump has a stable supply of clean fluid and the system isn’t losing pressure or circulating contaminants; second, verify filtration and that safety/pressure relief devices are set so the system won’t exceed its designed pressure. These together prevent issues like cavitation or pump starvation from leaks or contamination, and stop overpressure from damaging components. Checking a battery charge doesn’t address hydraulic fluid condition or pressure safety, so it doesn’t fulfill the readiness requirements by itself.

Before operating a hydraulic system, you must ensure it is ready to run safely by confirming both cleanliness and proper pressure protection. The best approach is to perform two checks: first, inspect for leaks and verify the fluid level and cleanliness so the pump has a stable supply of clean fluid and the system isn’t losing pressure or circulating contaminants; second, verify filtration and that safety/pressure relief devices are set so the system won’t exceed its designed pressure. These together prevent issues like cavitation or pump starvation from leaks or contamination, and stop overpressure from damaging components. Checking a battery charge doesn’t address hydraulic fluid condition or pressure safety, so it doesn’t fulfill the readiness requirements by itself.