Hydraulic hose safety and maintenance is not the first thing that comes to most peoples' minds when dealing with industrial equipment. Most equipment ranging from tractors to cranes normally use several hydraulic hoses and components and it is vital to ensure that safe practices are being performed.

You don't have to wait for a failure to start implementing good maintenance practices. Here are some of the best things you can do even before assembling your hydraulic hoses:

Proper selection of hydraulic components

When doing your assembling, ensure you pick the right components. Don't mix up couplings and hoses that are not originally designed to work together. Your best bet would be to pick up stuff from the same manufacturer because different manufacturers design their components slightly differently. Since the tolerance of these components vary from one manufacturer to another, mixing them up would not only increase the chances of leaking but you'd also be increasing your probability of contracting personal injuries.

STAMP selection

If you really wish to make your hydraulic hoses have a longer lifespan, then the STAMP process could be of really good use. This is an acronym that makes it much easier to properly assemble and install the hose.

Size

The inside diameter should be large enough to adequately reduce the pressure created by the fluid. Increased pressure heats up the interior of the hose and leads to premature damages leading to repairs and replacements. Check the owner's manual that came with your equipment or consult a professional if you are unsure of the size.

Temperature

The hose should also be in a position to withstand the temperatures that the fluid conveys. Normally, hoses have a range of temperatures within which they function optimally. Some of them even have this range displayed on its outer surface.

Application

How the hose is going to be used also plays a huge role in determining its lifespan. Ensure you know the industry standards and tolerance of the hose then see whether they match your application. Also route the hose to prevent any stretching, kinking or compression.

Media

This is really important. Different hoses are designed to handle different kinds of media so ensure that you are using a compatible hose. Don't try and use iron components when moving acidic fluids because they will be corroded away.

Pressure

Check the hose's working pressure and ensure that it is above the systems pressure. You should also anticipate the worst and factor in extreme surges of pressure to ensure that your hose survives that ordeal.

Contact a company like Hydraulink to learn more.

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