Hydraulic power is essential for tasks that require significant force and precision, common in construction projects, and over the years, the construction industry has invested heavily in hydraulic power, employing it extensively across a range of machinery, including excavators, backhoes, trenchers, tower cranes and dump trucks, to name just a few.
Overall, GlobalData forecasts global construction output to rise by a muted 2.3% in 2025, with uncertainty over geopolitical tensions and US tariff policies[i]. However, innovation in hydraulics is booming. According to GlobalData’s latest industry report[ii], the number of patents for hydraulic machinery for construction currently stands at over 21,600, with innovations in the pipeline including regeneration control hydraulics that adjust pump output for efficient machine movement based on load pressure, and dual-mode work vehicles that switch between hydraulic and electric modes for more flexible and efficient working, reflecting strong industry interest.
Rigors of the construction site
To keep these systems moving, regular preventative maintenance is not just a recommendation but a necessity to protect these vital systems from corrosion, degradation, and unexpected downtime.
Construction places high demands on hydraulic systems, which can damage them. Extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and exposure to elements like dust, moisture, and chemicals, can increase the likelihood of equipment failure if not properly maintained.
Cylinder protection, for example, is vitally important. “Without adequate protection, construction companies must frequently repair or replace hydraulic cylinders. A used and resealed cylinder for a mid-sized excavator can cost anywhere between $5,000 and $15,000,” says Leigh Carlson, CEO, Fluid Control Services, a leading provider of hydraulic protection equipment. “In addition to the cost associated with the repair or replacement of a cylinder, there is also the cost associated with job site downtime, which can quickly cut into a projects profit.”
Hydraulic protection is paramount
To combat the costs associated with repairs and downtime due to cylinder failure, Carlson’s company designs and manufactures the Seal Saver product line. Seal Savers are 100% custom designed cylinder protective boots that protect not only the cylinders they are installed on, but also by extension the entire hydraulic systems of these machines.
This highly effective and cost-efficient product line is designed to protect cylinders from damage caused by environmental stressors, as well as job site specific objects. The use of protective cylinder covers helps to prevent fluid contamination caused by compromised seals, which in turn extends machine longevity and reduces maintenance costs.
Carlson points out, “Industrial machinery operates across incredibly varied and challenging environments around the world, and the Seal Saver comes in a variety of materials to address those differing conditions.
“Predictive and preventative maintenance is essential. You don’t want to wait until there is a problem that requires correcting if you can prevent a problem from happening.”
These boots have been used globally for over 30 years, proving they stand up to some of the harshest conditions, such as mines, steel mills, oil rigs, and heavy construction sites. They are easy to install, usually requiring nothing more than a screwdriver. They expand and retract with the cylinder movement, providing continuous protection and extending cylinder life up to three times longer than cylinders that are not protected.
Made in the USA, Seal Saver hydraulic cylinder boots protect seals and cylinder rods from premature failure and extend the life of your equipment by preventing rod scoring and corrosion. Available in heat, oil, chemical, water, abrasion, and puncture-resistant materials, the custom-fitted protective cylinder boot covers all the top brands in the construction industry.
Seal Saver technology can reduce the possibility of breakdowns and increase the longevity of your equipment. For more information, download the free paper below.
[i] GlobalData: Construction Market Size, Trends and Growth Forecasts by Regions and Countries, 2025-2029 (Q1 2025)
[ii] GlobalData: Tech Frontiers: The Construction Edition, September 2024.
