Common Failures:

Abrasion with bottom screen

Due to over precharging, or a stuck valve causing a suction in the dampener cavity.

Gross over pressurization

Kicking in a pump with the floor valve or 4 inch closed at the pump or any other cause of blockage in the mud path.

Improper installation

Lip seals must be completely seated only after the internal cavity has been cleaned of all scale, corrosion, and impurities. Lubrication must be used when installing the lid to ensure the lid flange does not bite or collapse the top lip seal.

Improper precharge

Precharge must be maintained just like car tires. slow leaks, pin holes, faulty charging valves, loose or cross threaded gauge threads all allow leaks, and depletes nitrogen precharge. Without the pre-charge the dampener efficiency is reduced, and it will be damaged. In addition a pre-charge that is higher than factory specification will result in the loss of the bladder

Here is an example of excessive pre-charge or a stuck valve in the fluid end of the pump causing the dampener to collide with the bottom screen by overextending the bladder travel inside the cavity. This causes rupture, abrasion with the bottom screen, and premature failure.