Hydraulic Hoses: The Facts

It’s easy to take a hydraulic hose for granted. However, have you ever stopped to think about the many aspects that are involved in the design, creation and testing of the best quality hydraulic hoses? In this article, we take a look at some interesting hydraulic hose facts.

• Hydraulic assemblies and hoses are often made from multiple materials. The most commonly-used primary material of construction is rubber. However, materials tend to differ depending on exact requirements in terms of use.
• Hose assemblies are made up of both a hose and hose fittings. Each different component will be independently rated by working pressure. The lowest maximum working pressure between the hose and fittings is the highest maximum pressure for the entire assembly.
• Spiral hose is considered to be more robust than braided. Spiral hose can also be put under higher pressures than its braided counterpart.
• Contemporary hydraulic hose is usually made up of three parts or more. There should be a flexible inner tube that’s fully compatible with the fluid it’s to carry. Additionally, there is a reinforcement layer. There is also an outer layer that’s often abrasion, weather or oil resistant depending on the environment of use.
• Tube vs. hose. Hose is available in longer lengths and is more flexible than tube. Also, it’s easily installed in tight places, insulates heat better, is less likely to corrode and is also more rapidly fabricated than tube. Tube, on the other hand, is useful for a high-vibration environment, to attach to moving parts and when its routed near a source of heat.
• How long a hydraulic hose lasts depends on various factors. There is no exact answer to how long a hydraulic hose might last. If you’re currently on the look-out for a hydraulic fitting, Perth-based experts Hoseright are available 24/7 to help.

Hoseright is the foremost company in the area specialising in industrial hose products. If you’re looking for air hose fittings, Perth-based Hoseright works around the clock to keep your machinery in tip-top condition. Contact the trusted company for hydraulic repairs Perth-based Hoseright.

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Stay Safe during Hydraulic Hose Repairs

Hydraulics systems are important for many operations, from agriculture to construction and industrial plants. Unfortunately, they can also pose serious and even life-threatening hazards if proper care is not taken. This is especially important when repairing hoses, as this requires workers to be in close proximity to the equipment.

At Hoseright, we’re concerned for the safety of all workers. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you learn about the potential hazards of hydraulic systems and how to repair and maintain them. If you still feel unsure about working on the hydraulics yourself, you can call our friendly team about our hydraulic hose repair services.

Hydraulic Hazards

Hydraulic systems and hydraulic fluid can present serious hazards in a number of scenarios:

1.Pinhole Leaks

Hydraulic fluid is highly pressurised and the compressed liquid can jet out through tiny leaks, penetrating a worker’s skin or eyes. These are called ‘injection injuries’. They can cause severe injuries ranging from gangrene to blindness. Injection injuries require immediate medical attention and can often result in amputation of the affected limb.

2. Injuries from Hot Fluid

The pressurised fluid in a hydraulic system can also be very hot. If a worker is exposed to hydraulic fluid while removing or adjusting components, or if a hose bursts, they may sustain burns, bruises, cuts, and abrasions.

3.Hose Problems

When an unrestrained hose fails while under pressure it flails around until the hydraulic pressure is exhausted. A whipping hose increases the likelihood of contact with the hot hydraulic fluid. The hose itself can also cause striking injuries. These include concussions, lacerations, and broken bones.

Staying Safe around Hydraulics

Proper maintenance is critical for making sure your hydraulics assembly remains functional and safe. Here are some safety measures to keep you protected when checking, maintaining, and repairing hydraulic hoses.

• Regularly examine the hydraulic lines for leaks and wear.
• When looking for leaks, never run your hand along a hydraulic line –this puts you at risk of injection injuries. Instead, use a piece of cardboard or plexiglass to locate leaks.
• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when performing maintenance on hydraulic systems, including gloves and eye protection.
• Do not rely solely on the hydraulic lift if you work on hydraulic components with the system raised. Set the working unit on blocks as a precautionary measure.
• Unless you are bleeding the hydraulic system, do not run the machine engine when you are servicing it.
• Let the hydraulic system cool before changing lines, connections, filters, or fittings.
• Coat the cylinder rods with a lubricant that provides rust protection.
• Periodically replace filters, and keep hydraulic oil away from contaminants – dirt is the biggest culprit in hydraulic system damage.
• Before removing the cylinders from working units, make sure that the units are resting on the ground, safety stands, or safety blocks and that the engine is shut off.
• Use a chain hoist, floor jack, or another type of assistive device if you need to remove heavy hydraulic pumps or control valves. Many workplace injuries result from people simply trying to lift or move things that are far too heavy for manual labour.

For further assistance with your hydraulic system maintenance, contact the team at Hoseright. We are Perth and Regional WA’s experts in hydraulic hose fittings.

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