A
hydraulic hose consists of an inner tube through which the fluid is
conveyed and comes into direct contact with the hydraulic fluid. The
rubber or other synthetic material used for this needs to be compatible
and able to withstand the range of working temperature without losing
its chemical and physical stability.
The hydraulic hoses can be made using a variety of materials, depending
on the factors of oil compatibility, abrasion resistance etc. These
include:
Plastic - The plastic materials comprise of:
Nylon, Braided nylon hose , Polyvinyl chloride, Textile braided
hoses, Thermoplasts, Teflon, Chloro sulfonated polyethylene (Hypalon),
Ethylene propylene diene (EPDM), Chlorinated polyethylene etc.
Homogeneous Synthetic Rubber - This category
includes hose materials like: Buna N, Neoprene, Natural rubber, Butyl
etc.
The hydraulic hose is an important element in the system that needs to
be checked for its reliability and durability during the manufacture
process. In many hydraulic systems, it is necessary to move the drive
unit along with the oil lines. Here, synthetic-rubber is suited as the
material for the hydraulic hoses. Plastic tubings are also used in
hydraulic systems to convey the fluid.
Important Points
The hydraulic hoses need frequent maintenance that facilitates smooth
working thereby increasing their service life. Some important
considerations are:
- The excessive taut in the connected hose should be avoided while
connecting two elements through a hose.
- When pressure is applied to hose, the hose tends to bulge and
decrease in length. Thus slackness needs to be permitted to avoid
strain to the hose.
- They should not be installed with a twisting as it may weaken the
hose structurally and cause loosening of the fittings.
- High temperature may damage the hose cover and may shorten its
useful life. Hence under hot working conditions, the hoses should be
protected through proper heat insulation by using heat resistant
hose material.
- The hose run should be such that rubbing and abrasion with the
metal members of the system are avoided. Clamps and hose guards are
often used to group the hoses and keep them away from the moving
parts.
- The hose manufacturer's guidance and specific instructions need
to be taken care of with regard to bend radius, environment and oil'
compatibility, pressure capability, etc.
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