Because hydraulic cylinders are so expensive, you probably want to make sure that they are stored in a manner that will keep them safe and protect them from damage. Many components of a hydraulic cylinder need to be covered and the cylinder needs to be stored in the right position to be safe. 

Keep Cylinder Retracted

Always store hydraulic cylinders fully retracted. Check with the manufacturer's instructions for exactly what state the cylinder should be in because cylinders that are not stored properly could prevent the oil from remaining in place and could lead to the cylinder drying out, which would lead to it not being protected.

Store In A Cool, Dry Area

Hydraulic cylinders are vulnerable to rust. Therefore, you will want to keep them stored in a clean and dry area. Storing them outdoors might seem convenient, but will be an expensive mistake.

Protect Exposed Metal Parts

All exposed metal parts must be protected by smearing grease on them. Shafts should be wrapped with tape that is impregnated with oil. The tape should not be applied until the rods have been completely retracted. Also, any exposed chrome must be protected. Bearings must also be charged with grease. The oil ports need to be covered with steel plugs or blind flanges. The service ports must always be plugged with steel and not plastic.

Protect The Electrical Connections

Electrical connections will usually need to be coated with protective ingredients and lube. The openings need to be capped or plugged to protect them from the atmosphere. 

Fill It With Oil

The cylinder should probably be filled with clean, hydraulic oil before being stored, though this is sometimes optional depending on the cylinder. It should be filled through the rod-end service port. Large-diameter and high-pressure cylinders should especially be filled with a clean hydraulic oil. If a cylinder is not filled with oil, it will be filled with air instead. When the air is not completely dry and when the ambient temperature falls, it is possible that the air will reach the dew point. This can cause moisture to form inside the cylinder, which can lead to rusting. 

Have It Serviced Soon When Damaged

If you have a hydraulic cylinder that has become damaged, you will need to have it quickly taken to a hydraulic repair shop so it can be repaired. Any delays when having the hydraulic cylinder repaired will lead to the cylinder quickly becoming unusable. 

Talk to professionals, such as Certified Products Co, for more information.