When technicians are creating a machine, one of the last things they think about is the hydraulic hose, after all, the tubing is flexible and can connect in almost any configuration. The problem with that mode of thinking is that most often when a machine fails, it can be blamed on a problem with the hoses. Here are four problems hydraulic hoses often encounter.
Damage
Hydraulic hoses were originally designed for industrial applications, so when they are moved into a mobile situation, they can experience some unexpected circumstances. To protect hoses from outside damages, coils can be added to the tubing to prevent flying debris from ripping through it.
Abrasion
When a hose moves against an object hundreds, if not thousands of times, it can be expected that abrasion may occur in the outer cover of the sheathing of the tube. Once the metal is exposed, shock damage or metal slicing can occur and seriously damage the machine’s operation. The pressure fluctuation of the contact points is also a place that often fails due to abrasion. Plastic guards can be added to prevent scrape spots from damaging the tubes.
Routing
Since the hose is flexible, many operators don’t take the time to route the tubing to best mitigate potential problems. Adding clamps to protect the hose from over heated areas or remove contraction stress points is often beneficial.
Fitting
Where the hose meets the point called a crimp sell is often a source of high failure rates. Whether it is because the hose bends to tightly or is constricted against another object, the improper fitting can cause the tubing to break, crimp closed, or tear. To protect the fitting, check with a hydraulic hose Fort Worth TX supplier for a rubber or plastic sleeve that can be added to cover about six inches of the hose.
If you notice a problem with your hydraulic hoses, check the supplier for a guard, coils, or clamps to help prolong its life. A healthy hose means a working machine.