What is the minimum length of hydraulic lines that requires the installation of check valves to prevent issues at primary voltages?

The requirement to install check valves in hydraulic lines at primary voltages is primarily to prevent backflow that could lead to pressure drops or contamination within the system. The minimum length of hydraulic lines specified for this precaution is 35 feet. This standard is in place to ensure that the potential for siphoning or reverse flow, which could occur over shorter distances, becomes significant enough to warrant additional protective measures.

In systems where hydraulic action is employed, especially at primary voltage levels, the dynamics of fluid flow and the effects of gravity can lead to complications if there is no check valve to restrict backflow. By requiring check valves for lines longer than 35 feet, the design aims to maintain system integrity and reliability, especially in complex setups where longer runs may experience varying pressures or backflow risks.

Establishing this length helps to standardize the approach across different systems, mitigating potential issues that could arise from variable hydraulic conditions. The 35-foot specification serves as a critical guideline for engineers and technicians in managing hydraulic systems safely and effectively.