Custom Hose Tech, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, wants to make sure anyone needing the best in hydraulic hoses knows where to call or visit. We have the knowledge and the stock to support a diverse range of metrics. We carry brand names with proven, quality products that industries depend upon to keep their work flowing. Fittings are an important part of the hydraulic system, and it is vital that hydraulic hoses include the precise fitting for performance and safety.
The Factors of Hydraulic Hose Fittings
Hydraulic hose fittings serve to direct the flow of hydraulic fluid. The exact fit of the fitting to the hydraulic hose is vital to prevent leaks and retain the safe amount of pressure. The proper way to assure safety and maintain a manufacturer’s warranty is to use a complete hose assembly that is specific to an application.
An informative review found on Hydraulics & Pneumatics has been penned by one of our major vendors, Parker Hannifin, in “It’s a Material World” by Yu, L. (2012, December 12). As reported, five factors influence the selection of the proper fittings to use in different applications: “Size, Temperature, Application, Media, and Pressure (STAMP).”
Size Matters – Not exactly matching a hydraulic fitting for size can lead to hydraulic fluid leaks and system failures. There is no guesswork with the sizing process now perfected. You can learn how to accomplish the exact sizing of a fitting.
Temperature Consideration – The temperature of an application relates to the internal and external environment. Fittings are specific to different temperature ranges.
Application Type – Hydraulic fittings come in various shapes, sizes, and material features to provide specific functions required by varying industrial applications.
Media – The type of hydraulic fluid flowing through hydraulic hoses dictates the type of materials that can be used to avoid corrosion and deliver the proper strength needed for the application.
Pressure – Applications’ pressure ratings influence the design and construction of various types of fittings.
Materials Used to Manufacturer Fittings
The materials used to manufacture a fitting is vital for a hydraulic hose to properly and safely move the hydraulic fluid. It is the “high-pressure ratings” in hydraulic systems that generally require metal fittings over plastic ones. Metal fittings also offer strength and durability in comparison to plastic fittings.
The corrosive or rusting effect a hydraulic fluid has towards a metal is an important reaction to consider when selecting a hydraulic fitting. Hydraulic hoses and fittings should be accurately matched to work with an application’s hydraulic fluid.
Carbon steel fittings are “durable, strong, and has a high resistance to heat, with a temperature range of –65° to 500°F (–54° to 260°C).” Generally, carbon steel is combined with other metals to achieve higher levels of strength. Fittings made from a carbon steel combination are normally coated with transitional metals to fortify against environmental, corrosive surroundings. “Industrial, construction, and agricultural equipment” have the most applications that require carbon steel fittings to withstand high pressure, deliver high strength, and offer low cost.
Stainless steel fittings are “strong and have excellent chemical and corrosion resistance with a temperature range of –425° to 1200°F (–254° to 649°C).” These fittings work well with corrosive hydraulic fluids and resist environmental corrosion. Stainless steel fittings are the preferred choice over carbon steel fittings at low temperature. Even though the stainless steel fittings are higher priced, the corrosion resistance is imperative to a multitude of applications: “oil, gas, and offshore equipment; chemical processing; food manufacturing; medical and instrumentation; agricultural fertilizer; and marine applications.”
Brass fittings have “moderate strength and toughness, and good corrosion resistance with good ductility at high temperatures with a temperature range of –325° to 400° F (–198° to 204° C).” Brass is a softer metal, and it easy to alter. Because of the lower strength against high temperatures of this metal, applications rated for lower pressures can use brass fittings.
Aluminum fittings offer “lightweight and corrosion” benefits while withstanding “temperatures –325° to 400°F (–198° to 204°C).” Combining with transitional metals, a fitting’s strength is increased. Applications with moderate pressure ratings can benefit from aluminum fittings with it media compatibility. The lightweight factor of these fittings is vital for “aerospace, military, and automotive” applications.
Causes of Hydraulic Hose Failures Pertaining to Fittings
It seems fitting (no pun intended) to be able to recognize the probable causes of hydraulic hose failure. Again referencing Hydraulics & Pneumatics, let’s draw attention to those failures affected by the fitting. Another Parker Hannifin article, “A guide to recognizing the causes of hose failure” by Mramor, R. (2000, September 4) reviews problems and causes of hydraulic hoses.
- When a fitting has blown off the hose means “the hose was not inserted deeply enough into the shell of the fitting during assembly.”
- Using all the grips in the shell of the fitting is important to secure the assembly.
- If leakage is between the shell of the fitting and the hose, improper crimping has occurred.
- It is imperative to understand how to use a crimping machine.
- If a hose burst at an area with an obvious twist, and there is damage to the hose cover, lubrication was not sufficient at the time of the hose and fitting assembly process.
- Again, review proper procedure for hose and fitting assembly.
- If a hose has burst at the fitting, several problems may be the cause: an excessive movement of the hose within the fitting, the hose length is too short, the hose bend is too close the fitting or the crimping dimension is not accurate.
- The new hose assembly needs to be longer and possibly re-routed to leave some slack in the hose to allow for pressurized shortening. Be sure to position the hose straight “for at least two times is ID before starting to bend.” Use proper clamps to inhibit excessive movement. Follow proper crimping procedures.
Team Up with the Experts in Hydraulic & Industrial Hose Fittings
Custom Team Tech has the experts and the products which businesses need to keep their hydraulic systems flowing. We have made it our business to know everything about hydraulic hoses and fittings. We make it easy for customers with our complete, walk-in service, our pick-up and delivery service, and our large fleet of mobile service trucks. We go with the flow, and we’re always available 24/7. We look forward to fitting right in with your team.