A hydraulic hose is an essential system that powers machines and industrial equipment. Properly maintained hydraulic hoses keep systems running smoothly and minimize the risk of mechanical failure or employee injuries.
The early warning signs of a failing hose assembly include damaged hose covers, cracks or cuts, and blisters or color changes. These indicate that the hose assembly needs a hydraulic mobile hose repair Charlotte, NC, immediately.
Inspection
Hydraulic hoses are vital to any hydraulic system and require regular inspection and replacement. Failure of these hoses can cause severe damage to the equipment and lead to costly repairs.
Several factors can contribute to the deterioration of hydraulic hoses. Some of these are exposed to UV rays, chemicals, and temperatures that are too hot or cold.
These factors can increase the risk of leaks and premature deterioration of hydraulic hoses. The best way to avoid this is by conducting regular hydraulic hose maintenance. By doing so, you can identify issues on time and schedule non-urgent hose replacement. This will help reduce costs and minimize downtime for your business. It is also a good way to protect your employees’ safety.
Cleaning
Hydraulic hoses need to be cleaned regularly to prevent contamination. A contaminated hydraulic hose can damage your equipment.
In many cases, hydraulic hoses are used in harsh environments where they are subject to various hazards. Sharp objects, splinters, or corrosive elements can damage them.
This is especially true for earthmoving and construction equipment, where hoses are often exposed to high-impact, sharp edges.
Cutting and crimping rubber and thermoplastic hydraulic hoses leaves visible and microscopic particles inside the hose, which can cause corrosion and other serious issues. This includes metal particles from the wire reinforcement, cutting blade, and polymer dust from the hose-out cover and inner tube.
Lubrication
Hydraulic hoses need lubrication to function properly and safely. This reduces friction and allows moving machine parts to slide smoothly past each other.
A lubricant’s main functions are to reduce friction and prevent wear. This can increase uptime, efficiency, and productivity.
The lubricant can be either a liquid or a gas. It should withstand a range of temperatures, but it’s best to choose one with a flash point above the temperature at which it is being used.
It is also important to maintain the lubricant’s viscosity at all times. Extreme heat can thin a lubricant, reducing its performance and causing it to break down. Oxidation is another major concern.
Repair
Hydraulic hoses are critical to the functioning of heavy machinery. When they fail, it can reduce productivity and lead to downtime.
Despite this, regular inspection and repair by a hydraulic hose specialist can avoid most hose failures. These repairs can extend the life of your hoses and prevent costly downtime for your equipment.
Inspecting hoses regularly also helps to identify any signs of damage. These include cracks, bulges, or leaks, which should be repaired quickly to prevent premature failure due to temperature.
Assembling hoses correctly is also important. This requires following the appropriate instructions for a particular application and using compatible tubing, fittings, and end connections.
Replacement
Hydraulic hoses are an essential component of any hydraulic-powered machinery. When they fail, it can disrupt production and lead to costly downtime and repairs.
Often, the only way to know when it’s time for replacement is through regular inspections and careful logs. Using this method, you can ensure your equipment is always in good working order and prevent downtime.
Some telltale signs of a hose nearing failure include wires on the surface, leaks, or unusual cuts and abrasions. When you see any of these things, it’s time to replace the hose.
