United Drilling, Inc.

When it comes to removing an existing hydraulic cylinder it is best to have a plan, sometimes with a plan B…and in some scenarios a Plan C would not hurt.

United Drilling has assembled a questionnaire to assist you in preparing for the upcoming replacement. If your replacement is already underway and you need assistance, please contact us as soon as possible. We will give you direction on removing the cylinder, cleaning the existing hole, and drilling if necessary. Here at United we have the equipment, in house, to correct any issue, minimizing downtime onsite. Proper tooling and planning allow us to complete your project, from start to finish, without calling in another vendor. There are so many unknowns in a cylinder replacement, it is nice to know that United Drilling has a plan for each scenario.

A major step of the cylinder replacement, sometimes requiring specialized equipment, is the removal of the cylinder. If needed, United Drilling has 200-ton jacks to remove the cylinder, and a drill rig in-house for extreme situations. If you are subcontracting this work out to a company other than United Drilling, it is important to ask what equipment will be utilized to remove the existing cylinder. In addition, ask at what point, if any, another subcontractor would be required to complete the work.

Another large variable for jack replacement work is the method in which the existing hole will be cleaned. It is common for others to utilize a vacuum truck when attempting to clean out a hole; be aware that this method will not work in all ground formations. Based on the existing soil and water levels, a vacuum truck may be removing only water or, possibly, undermining the elevator pit. In our experience the only tried and true method of establishing the existing depth is by utilizing a bailer. Want to know more about the process United recommends or what is best in your area? Just give us a call.

When replacing an existing hydraulic cylinder it is not only important to know what services are included for removing the cylinder & cleaning the hole, but also what product you are purchasing. If you are unaware of the diameter of the existing hole, which is typically covered by concrete, you should make sure you are buying the smallest diameter equipment available. When possible do not increase the size of the cylinder and always be sure to order the smallest diameter PVC with a slip fit design. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.