Hydraulic Hose Considerations

Proper design, selection and installation of hydraulic hose is not difficult if the following pointers are kept in mind.  A good cut with a Hyde Hose Hog cut-off blade is only one step in the process.  Key considerations include:

Pressure Ratings – every hose in a hydraulic system must be able to handle the highest pressure produced by the system.   Be sure to consider possible surges or peaks that may be encounted when selecting a hose.

Temperature Range – hydraulic hoses must be able to tolerate both the external temperature and the internal fluid temperature.   Be sure not to exceed the hose’s maximum operating temperature to assure integrity of the hose in use.

Fluid Compatability – all components of a hose assembly (tube, cover, couplings) must be compatible with the hydraulic fluid being used.  Consider that other variables such as temperature, contamination or fluid concentration can affect compatability.

Minimum Bend Radius – subjecting a hose to a bend radius smaller than the manufacturer’s minimum bend radius recommendation places excessive stress on the reinforcement, opens larger gaps between the strands of reinforcement and severly reduces the hose’s ability to withstand pressure.

Hose Size – the inner diameter of the hose must be capable of handling the required flow volume.  Too small an I.D. for a given volume of flow can result in too high a velocity, excessive fluid turbulence, pressure drop, heat generation and/or tube damage.

Hose Routing – route high-pressure hydraulic lines parallel to machine contours whenever possible.  This will not only protect the hose line from possible damage, but will save money as well!

Hose Length – to determine the correct hose length, remember that length will change under pressure through expansion or contraction (typically between 2% to 4%).  Give consideration to machine vibration and motion and the routing design.  Allow enough length so that the fittings are not subjected to pull-off forces when parts reach their limits of travel.

The best hydraulic hose ever made is uselss if it is the wrong hose for the job or if it is assembled or installed improperly.  A good hydraulic system features a properly joined hose and coupling assembly, installed in such a way that the hose retains felxibility and is not subjected to abuse.  Remember to inspect hoses regularly for leaks and visible damage.

By following a good maintenance-replacement program, problems can be avoided before they arise!