Proper Hose Installation: A Guide for Local Businesses

Discover the essential steps for maintaining proper performance and longevity of a hydraulic system

Proper hose installation is so important for the integrity of any hydraulic based system.

It contributes to the machinery is running efficiently, minimises downtime, and helps mitigate financial losses.

In this guide, we will touch upon the importance of proper hose installations, ideally for local businesses, but for anyone who needs it and the type of professionals you should contact for the job.

We at Completely Hydraulic, operating in London, Essex, and Kent in the UK, do specialise in hydraulic installations of all kinds and have professionals on hand who deal with bespoke projects too.

The size of the project does not matter, our goal is to sort the needs of the customer and provide excellent customer service to keep the machinery moving.

 

Here are some essential points to consider for proper hose installation:

1. Choose the right hose

The kind of hose you use depends on the type of fluid moving through the installation, the temperature and pressure, and the kind of application. There are different types of hoses that can be used, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages.

Here are some common types of hoses and their uses:

Rubber Hoses: Rubber hoses are the most common type of hose used in hydraulic systems. They are flexible, durable, and resistant to abrasion. They can be used for a wide range of applications, including the transfer of water, oil, and air.

PVC Hoses: PVC hoses are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for use in tight spaces. They are also resistant to chemicals and UV rays, making them suitable for outdoor use. PVC hoses are commonly used for the transfer of water and air.

Metal Hoses: Metal hoses are used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications. They are made of stainless steel or other metal alloys and are resistant to corrosion and heat. Metal hoses are typically used for the transfer of hot oil, steam, and other high-temperature fluids.

Teflon Hoses: Teflon hoses are made of a special type of plastic called PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). They are resistant to high temperatures and chemicals, making them ideal for use in harsh environments. Teflon hoses are commonly used for the transfer of chemicals and high-pressure gases.

Thermoplastic Hoses: Thermoplastic hoses are made of a special type of plastic that can withstand high temperatures and pressures. They are lightweight, flexible, and resistant to abrasion. Thermoplastic hoses are commonly used for the transfer of high-pressure fluids in mobile equipment and machinery.

When choosing a hose, it is important to take into consideration the application, the type of fluid, and the operating conditions.

Selecting the right hose for the job will ensure the best possible performance, reduce the risk of leaks and damage, and extend the life of the hose.

It is also good to point out that the hoses you select are manufactured to the relevant industry standards, maybe use a company like Alfagomma, we are distributors and can help there too.

Its vital to make sure that the hoses have the right certification as this will guarantee that they are safe to use and will provide the expected performance.

 

2. Use the correct fittings:

Using the correct fittings is also a major part in performing a proper hose installation.

Fittings connect the hose to the machinery and must be compatible with the hose and the kind of fluid that moves around.

There are different types of fittings available, including compression fittings, crimp fittings, and push-to-connect fittings. Each type of fitting has its own unique characteristics and advantages.

Compression fittings are the most common type of fitting used in hydraulic systems.

They are easy to install and provide a secure connection. They work by compressing the hose against the fitting to create a leak-free seal.

Crimp fittings are also widely used in hydraulic systems.

They work by compressing the hose against a ferrule, creating a secure and leak-free connection. Crimp fittings are typically used in high-pressure applications and are known for their durability and reliability.

Quick release couplings (aka push-to-connect fittings) are the easiest to install and are known for their convenience.

They work by pushing the hose into the fitting, creating a secure connection. These fittings are ideal for quick disconnections and are commonly used in mobile equipment and machinery.

We cannot say this enough that it is important to use fittings that are compatible with the hose and the fluid being transported and distributed throughout the installation. Using the wrong fittings can cause leaks, damage, and reduced performance. If you are not sure of what fittings to use, consult with a hydraulic professional or the manufacturer of the hose.

Just make sure once again that they the industry standards. These standards ensure that the fittings are safe to use and will provide the expected performance. The fittings should also be of the right size to ensure proper fit and connection.

 

 

 

3. Check for proper routing

Proper routing of the hose is also considered an essential for the smooth operation of any hydraulic system.

The hose should be routed in a way that prevents damage from abrasion, heat, and vibration. Proper routing also helps to keep the hose from getting caught on other machinery or equipment.

When routing the hose, it is important to take into account the movement of the machinery, the location of other components, and the potential for exposure to heat or abrasion. The hose should be routed in a way that reduces any potential for damage and ensures adequate flow of fluid.

One important aspect of proper routing is to avoid tight bends and kinks in the hose.

These can cause the hose to collapse, restricting the flow of fluid, and can also cause damage to the hose. The hose should also be routed in a way that prevents it from rubbing against other components or machinery. This can cause wear and tear on the hose and can lead to leaks.

Another important aspect to consider is to keep the hose away from heat sources. This can cause the hose to expand and contract, leading to unnatural wear and tear, which can cause leak and/or damage. The hose should also be protected from exposure to UV rays, which can cause the hose to deteriorate over time.

Proper routing of the hose also involves the use of clamps or some kind of component to secure the hose in place. This helps to prevent the hose from moving around and coming into contact with other machinery or components.

 

 

 

 

4. Use clamps or restraints

These devices are used to secure the hose in place and prevent movement, which can lead to fluid leaks, wear and tear, and impaired performance.

Clamps are typically used to hold the hose in place, and come in a variety of types and sizes. They can be made of metal or plastic, and can be adjusted to fit different hose sizes. Some clamps are designed to be reusable, while others are designed for one-time use.

Restraints are similar to clamps, but they are designed to prevent the hose from moving or twisting, which can cause damage to the hose. They are quite often made of a flexible material, such as nylon, and can be adjusted to fit hose of all sizes.

When using clamps or restraints, make sure they are properly installed and tightened. Loose clamps or restraints can cause the hose to move, and that’s not good. They should also be checked regularly to make sure that they are in good condition and tight.

5. Inspect the installation

After the installation is complete, it is important to inspect the hose and fittings for proper alignment, leaks, and damage. Any issues should be addressed immediately to prevent further problems.

Here are the steps to follow for proper inspection of the hose and fittings installation:

• Check for proper alignment: Inspect the hose and fittings to ensure that they are properly aligned and connected. Improper alignment can cause leaks and damage to the hose and fittings.
• Check for leaks: Look for any signs of leaks, such as wetness or discoloration around the hose and fittings. Leaks can lead to reduced performance and damage to the machinery.
• Check for damage: Inspect the hose and fittings for any signs of damage, such as cuts, abrasions, or cracks. Damaged hoses and fittings should be replaced immediately to prevent further problems.
• Check for tightness: Check to ensure that the hose and fittings are properly tightened and secured. Loose connections can lead to leaks and reduced performance.
• Check for proper routing: Inspect the routing of the hose to ensure that it is properly routed and secured, avoiding tight bends and kinks, and away from heat sources.
• Test the system: Once the inspection is complete, test the system to ensure that it is working properly and that there are no leaks or issues with the hose and fittings.

It is important to have periodic maintenance of the hose and fittings installation to ensure that they are in good condition and to prevent leaks, damage and reduced performance. Any issues found during the inspection should be addressed immediately to prevent further problems.

6. Properly store the hoses

Proper storage of hoses is an important aspect of maintaining their longevity and ensuring proper performance.

Hoses should be stored in a clean, dry, and cool area to prevent damage and deterioration. The following 6 steps should be adhered to when storing hoses:

1. Clean the hoses: Before storing the hoses, they should be cleaned and dried to remove any debris or contaminants that may have accumulated during use. This will prevent damage or deterioration caused by dirt or other foreign materials.
2. Avoid heat and sunlight: Hoses should be stored in an area that is not exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the hose to expand and contract, leading to damage or leaks.
3. Keep hoses away from chemicals: Hoses should be stored away from chemicals or other harmful substances that can cause damage or deterioration. This includes cleaning agents, solvents, and other chemicals that may be present in the work area.
4. Store the hoses in a cool, dry area: Hoses should be stored in a cool, dry area to prevent damage caused by humidity or moisture. This can also prevent mold or mildew from forming on the hoses.
5. Properly roll the hoses: Hoses should be properly rolled to prevent kinks or twists, which can cause damage or leaks. The hoses should be coiled neatly and should not be stored in a way that could cause them to become tangled.
6. Use hose racks or reels: Hose racks or reels can be used to store hoses in a neat and organized manner. This can make it easier to access the hoses when they are needed and can also prevent damage caused by improper storage.

Proper storage of hoses may seem like a small thing but it plays an important part when you need them for hose installations.

Hoses should be stored in a clean, dry and cool area to prevent damage and deterioration. They should be cleaned and dried before storing, kept away from heat, sunlight, and chemicals, properly rolled and organised in hose racks or reels.

This will help to extend the life of the hoses and ensure that they are in good condition when they are needed.

And lastly as mentioned above. . .

7. Regular maintenance

Regular maintenance or what we call preventative maintenance should be carried out on all hoses and fittings to make sure they are in good health.

Proper hose installation is important for the safe and efficient operation of any hydraulic system.

It is essential to choose the right hose, use the correct fittings, check for proper routing, use clamps or restraints, and inspect the installation.

Preventative maintenance should also be carried out to ensure the longevity of the hoses. If you need help with hydraulic installations, contact Completely Hydraulic at 0800 707 6556, we are experts in the field and our goal is to provide excellent customer service and keep your machinery moving.

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