How To Choose A Hydraulic Hose

Hydraulic hoses exist in almost all machines that use hydraulic systems. You may overlook the hydraulic hose, but it is a crucial part of the machine and determines the longevity and safety of the entire system. Most of the hoses get damaged due to poor routing, incompatibility with the fluid, improper assembly, high temperatures, tube erosion, bent hoses close to fittings, and abrasion. The failure of a hose can cause your entire system to shut down, thereby causing delays, repair expenses, and safety concerns. This article provides a few criteria for selecting a hydraulic hose to maximize longevity and safety. 

Size

The size of a hydraulic hose is one of the most important factors to consider when designing or replacing existing parts. If you do not get the size right, so much can go wrong with your hydraulic system. Hydraulic systems depend on the efficient transfer of pressure exerted from one part of a system to another. This pressure varies depending on the surface area of contact surfaces and the amount of hydraulic fluid transmitted. In simple terms, your system must transfer the exact amount of force from one point to another, and the hydraulic hose is a significant determinant. Ensure that you choose a hydraulic hose that does not cause pressure drop to prevent losing energy in the system. Ensure you know the internal diameter that suits your application, and always replace your hoses with those that fit such specifications. 

Temperature

Temperature also affects the performance of your hydraulic system. Changes in temperature cause expansion and contraction of the hydraulic hose and fluid expansion and contraction. These variations affect the amount of pressure transmitted across the hydraulic system. You do not need to dive deep into the thermodynamics and heat transfer calculations since manufacturers have already handled that bit. The best approach is to buy a hydraulic hose with a heat-resistant material and thick coating. Other modifications such as insulating materials and the overall color of the hose are also essential in shielding your hydraulic system from the effects of temperature changes. The manufacturer labels hydraulic hoses depending on the ambient temperature they can handle. Such recommendations ensure that the fluid inside gets cooled or conditioned appropriately to handle temperature changes radiated on the inside. 

External Conditions

You can extend the longevity of the hydraulic system by considering the impacts of the surroundings on your hose. Does the hydraulic hose risk abrasion from metals and other rough surfaces? Do you require a thick carcass on the hoses outside cover? Most manufacturers make hydraulic hoses from several materials. The joints may be metallic, but the rest of the pipe comes from fluoropolymers and silicones, thermoplastics, and elastomers. The metallic parts are vulnerable to corrosion attack and impede the hydraulic hose's flexibility. Therefore, ensure you recognize and respond to these issues when picking a hydraulic hose. 

Conductivity

Another essential consideration you must make is the conductivity of the hose. Most hydraulic systems use oil which has poor conductivity. However, the steel braids are good conductors of electricity, and they often come into contact with other parts of the machine or power cables. If the hose material is a conductive metal, it may send electric shocks across the platform. Such hoses are dangerous for applications such as cranes for repairing power supply cables. Ensure hoses used in such applications have synthetic braiding materials that prevent the conduction of electricity. 

Consider the size, temperature, external conditions, and conductivity when selecting a hydraulic hose. 

For more information on hydraulic hoses, contact a company like Engineered Hydraulics Inc.

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