| Fluid cleanliness code |
Ask for particle counts reported as an ISO 4406 code for particles larger than 4, 6, and 14 μm(c), expressed as three code numbers. |
A dated laboratory or calibrated particle-counter report identifying the sample, sampling point, test method, and reported code. |
Compare the measured code with the cleanliness target specified by the equipment or component manufacturer. ISO 4406 provides a coding method; it does not set one universal cleanliness target for every hydraulic system. |
| Representative sampling |
Check that the sample was taken from a suitable point in a circulating system using a documented, contamination-controlled procedure. |
Sampling location, operating conditions, flushing and bottle-handling steps, date, and sample identification. ISO 4021 covers extraction of fluid samples from operating hydraulic systems. |
Do not rely on an unlabelled sample taken from an open reservoir or an unclean container; poor sampling can distort particle-count results. |
| Particle-count measurement |
Confirm that the measurement method and instrument are suitable for the fluid and the required particle-size range. |
Instrument identification, calibration information, test method, and any notes about water, air bubbles, or other conditions that may affect the measurement. |
Check that results are reported consistently and that any unusual or suspect readings are investigated or confirmed with an appropriate repeat test. |
| Filtration and flushing |
Review the filtration and flushing plan used after repair, including filter condition, filter rating, and the cleanliness target for the serviced circuit. |
Flush procedure, filter details, and post-flush particle-count results from a representative sample. |
Accept the work against the equipment maker’s specified target and agreed test conditions. A filter rating alone does not demonstrate that the complete system has reached its target cleanliness. |
| ISO 4413 safety review |
Check whether the repair and return-to-service process addresses applicable hydraulic-system safety requirements, including foreseeable hazards from pressure, movement, and stored energy. |
Documented inspection or risk-review records, safe isolation and pressure-release steps, and a controlled test procedure. |
Assess against the applicable requirements of ISO 4413, the machine design, and the equipment maker’s instructions. ISO 4413 is a general safety standard for hydraulic fluid power systems, not a repair-shop certification. |
| Pressure and function testing |
Confirm that any pressure or function test is authorized for the component and performed with suitable guarding and controlled access. |
Approved test procedure, test conditions, results, and a record of leaks, abnormal noise, temperature, or other observed issues. |
Use limits and procedures specified by the equipment or component manufacturer. Do not treat a generic pressure value as appropriate for every repaired unit. |
| Contamination control during repair |
Ask how ports, hoses, components, and replacement parts are protected from dirt and moisture during disassembly, repair, storage, and reassembly. |
Work instructions or inspection records showing cleaning, component protection, and handling controls. |
Look for a documented process that prevents contamination from being introduced after cleaning or flushing. |
| Traceability and reporting |
Check whether the repair record links the serviced unit to its inspection findings, replaced parts, test results, and cleanliness results. |
A job report with a unique job reference, dates, work performed, measurements, and any stated limitations or deviations. |
Prefer complete, attributable records that allow the buyer to verify what was tested and which acceptance criteria were used. |