In the event of installation or damage, it’s highly likely that you’ll need a flexible hose. Indeed, the breakdown or malfunction of professional or domestic equipment can be caused by the deterioration of this type of equipment. To install a new one, it’s essential to take certain criteria into account. The idea is to choose a resistant model that meets both current standards and the intended use. So, how do you choose the right hydraulic hose?
Material: the cornerstone of hydraulic hose strength
There are three types of hydraulic hose.
Rubber hose
This is the most common type. Highly appreciated for its flexibility, it is also resistant and versatile. It can withstand medium and high pressures. In addition, textile braids reinforce the rubber, making it stronger.
Metal hose
Metal hydraulic hose is both flexible and rigid. It can withstand very high pressures and is made of stainless steel. It is most often used in very demanding conditions requiring a high level of safety. These include industrial applications, gas turbines, gas distribution, etc. This hose is lightweight and has high mechanical strength. It is also watertight and long-lasting.
Thermoplastic hose
This version offers a rather singular bending radius and is characterized by its resistance to acids, alkalis and chemicals. It is generally used in high-temperature environments. The choice of material depends on the type of fluid to be conveyed. Depending on the fluid, the material will need to have the right properties: torsion, chemical resistance, extreme temperatures…
It’s advisable to call on a specialist to help you choose between the different types of custom-made hydraulic hoses: custom-made models are in fact manufactured taking into consideration several factors such as use, required diameter, nature of the fluid… They must be adapted to your needs.
Dimensions for practical, efficient hose installation
When we talk about hose dimensions, we’re referring to length and diameter. Here, the choice depends on the flow rate of the substances to be conveyed. This criterion is very important when you’re planning to make changes to your hydraulic circuit. For example, a hose that’s too tight isn’t suitable for high flow rates. This can lead to reduced efficiency, rapid deterioration of suction pumps, pressure losses…
Conversely, if the diameter is too large, the pipe will be heavier and may take up more space. This will unnecessarily increase space requirements and installation costs. Both the inside and outside diameters of the hose must be taken into consideration.
The former must be adapted to the installation to avoid pressure loss and unnecessary damage. As for the latter, it may be important if the hose passes through partitions or if you need mountain clamps. In this case, you’ll need to refer to the outer diameter column of the hose you’d like to choose, while paying close attention to the inner diameter.
As for the length, this must be precisely defined according to your needs. This will helpavoid superfluous connections that can later lead to leaks. A hose that is too long will also be cumbersome and may impact on water flow. Hydraulic hoses should therefore be neither too long nor too short, but of the right length in each case. If you’re replacing a hose, you can base your decision on the total length of the original hose and record the data.
Finally, you’ll need to take the bending radius into account when calculating dimensions. This is an important parameter not to be overlooked.
Hydraulic hose: temperature and application for the right choice
When choosing a hydraulic hose, it’s also important to consider the temperature at which it will be used. In other words, the hose must be able to withstand the maximum and minimum values of the liquid it carries. Care should therefore be taken to check the hose’s resistance to the maximum temperature reached by the fluid in the hydraulic assembly.
Application is another factor to be taken into account. In terms of connection, it has to be said that many machines require the use of flexible hoses for greater flexibility and malleability. Hydraulic hose is therefore a perfect alternative to rigid hoses and tubes.
In reality, hoses are used in cases of predictable vibration and relative movement. We’re also talking about the mobility of components. That’s why you need to be sure of the hydraulic system’s application requirements. To do this, you need to consider where and how the hose will be used.
The nature of the liquid being transported, for better chemical resistance
You also need to ensure compatibility between the liquid and the hose selected. In fact, all hose components must be adapted to the fluid: nipples, O-rings, coatings, etc. The hose can be made of rubber, nylon or stainless steel.
To make the right choice, you need to know the physical and chemical properties of the fluid to be conveyed. The conditions under which it will be used must also be taken into account.
In addition, the hose will be chosen according to its resistance capacity. This includes chemical aggression, torsion, abrasion, extreme temperatures, etc. If you can’t make up your mind, don’t hesitate to ask the manufacturer for advice. They’ll be able to provide you with the relevant information, or offer you a tailor-made design.
Hydraulic hoses: accessories for a good seal
You’ll need accessories like fittings to install your hoses. There are crimped fittings that provide a good seal while protecting against corrosion. Another accessory is the thread, which comprises a ring and a skirt. Its role is to connect the pipe to the device in which it is installed.
When choosing fittings, you need to take pressure drop into account. In addition, you’ll need to determine the type of seal that’s right for the situation.
Standards for safe installation
Good hose performance is the key to excellent system operation and a high level of user safety. It is therefore essential to ensure compliance with current standards, in order to obtain equipment that is reliable over the long term.
Indeed, European legislation imposes certain rules on manufacturers to ensure the safety of hydraulic hoses. Standard EN 982, for example, requires manufacturers to identify each model, along with its date of manufacture. It also prohibits the use of hoses that have already been assembled. This means that only new models can be used that meet performance requirements such as cyclic life testing. There are a number of models available from standard retailers which meet the required standards.
When choosing a hydraulic hose, many criteria need to be taken into account, especially if the system is designed to transport fluids at high pressure. However, using the services of a manufacturer of made-to-measure models will enable you to obtain equipment that is truly adapted to your needs.
