The Importance of Hydraulics Hoses – Proper Maintenance and Repair

Hydraulic machinery is important to every industry in the modern world due to their spectrum of uses and applications. It is used in the automotive industry, aviation industry, manufacturing industry and the list goes on and on. Hydraulics work as such: An incompressible liquid, typically oil, is put into a chamber with two pistons on the end. When a force is applied to one end of the chamber or piston, the force is exponentially applied to the other piston, significantly reducing the amount of strength needed to lift, move and stop heavy objects. While hydraulic technology has proven to be revolutionary, it can also be extremely dangerous with malfunctions. Serious personal injury can occur from both the hydraulic machinery and fluid, seeing that some contain dangerous chemicals. For example, brake fluid, a type of hydraulic fluid, is toxic and flammable. While not all substances are dangerous, it’s recommended to regularly examine the hydraulic machinery and hoses for potential damage and leaks.

Hydraulic hoses are particularly important due to the fact that carry the fluid needed to power the machinery. Should one of the hoses become damaged or extremely worn, it is essential to repair or replace it as quickly as possible so that the machinery doesn't receive major damage. The most common reason why hoses malfunction is from exte
al physical damage i.e. crushing, pulling, kinking and excessive abrasion. Spiral wraps and security clamps can also be attached to circumvent various abrasion problems. While the repair cost of the hose is expensive, when hoses malfunctions there are many other issues that can arise such as introduction of contaminants into the fluid system, additional damage to adjacent components and recovery of hydraulic fluid. Routine checking of the hoses and can help prevent these incidences. Like all products, hydraulic hoses have a limited lifetime. The rubber tube and covering on the hose are sensitive to the extremes of temperature, as well as large pressure changes. Based on the material and elasticity of the hose, extreme hot and cold temperature can adversely affect the duration of the hose.While it’s possible to repair hoses, most people choose to replace the entire hose, greatly reducing the risk of further failure. Hoses are a fundamental part of the hydraulic systems, but unfortunately they are frequently overlooked until a malfunction occurs. Being especially attentive to the machinery and hoses can prevent enormous damage to the equipment and monetary loss.