Safety, Compliance, and Performance: The Importance of Accumulator Maintenance
At Rotec, we provide a total life-cycle solution for your hydraulic systems. As the only Parker Certified Accumulator Service Centre in the South West, we are uniquely equipped to keep your operations running safely and efficiently.
What is a Parker Certified Accumulator Centre?
Being a Parker Certified Centre means Rotec has been rigorously audited and approved to provide the highest level of technical service. For our customers, this certification offers several tangible benefits:
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Original OEM Parts: We have direct access to genuine spare parts, including Parker, QHP, and Hydac, ensuring your equipment is restored to its original manufacturer specifications.
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Expert Recertification: We are authorised to perform full recertifications, including hydrostatic testing and volumetric stretch testing.
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Parker Tracking System (PTS): We can use digital tagging to track your assets. This means you can receive automated notifications when an inspection or replacement is due, taking the guesswork out of compliance.
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Written Schemes of Examination: We have the expertise to prepare the legally required Written Schemes of Examination (WSE) to ensure you meet UK safety standards.
How Often Does Your Accumulator Need Maintenance?
Under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) 2000, it is a legal requirement to regularly maintain your hydraulic accumulators. Generally, the following intervals are recommended:
- Every 3–6 Months: Visual Inspection & Gas Pre-charge Check
Gas levels naturally permeate over time. Low pre-charge causes the bladder to over-flex, leading to premature failure.
- Every 12 Months: External Examination
Checking for corrosion, paint blistering, or mounting issues, especially in harsh marine or construction environments.
- Every 5–10 Years: Full Recertification & Internal Inspection
A legal requirement for many systems to verify the structural integrity of the pressure vessel.
Why Choose Rotec Hydraulics?
Maintaining an accumulator is not a DIY task. Opening a pressurized vessel without the correct training and tools can lead to catastrophic accidents, including fluid injection or explosions. Customers choose Rotec because of our:
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our workshops feature dedicated test rigs capable of testing bladder accumulators from 0.5L up to 54L.
- Specialist Accumulator Knowledge: Our engineers are trained by global Fluid Power experts, Parker Hannifin, in all aspects of accumulators.
- Sector Experience: We regularly overhaul accumulators from all industries, and can tailor our overhaul accordingly. For example, applying marine-grade coatings to protect against saltwater corrosion for marine accumulators.
- Safety First: We ensure your system is fully depressurised and safe before any work begins, protecting your staff and your investment.
Don’t Leave Your Compliance to Chance
A well-maintained accumulator reduces pump wear, saves energy, and prevents costly downtime. Most importantly, it keeps your team safe.
Is your accumulator due for an inspection? Contact our team today via 01823 348 900 or email sales@rotec.net.
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