When a hydraulic hose leaks or breaks, fixing it can be a really messy affair. The leaks pose additional hazards to the environment because they might cause a fire or pollute the environment in several other ways. Other risks put the lives of people in danger because leaks and breaks can cause bodily harm like skin burns. Also, under very high pressure the skin can be penetrated, and the individual might be left with deep lacerations. Equipment operators rarely pay attention to the dangers a broken hose pipe can cause until they start leaking. A good equipment operator must be able to inspect, spot the necessary faults and be able to do some basic repairs. Here are some primary reasons why hydraulic hoses fail:

Routing

Around 57% of the total hydraulic hose failures are consequences of incorrect routing. Snagging, lacerations, kinking, and severe bending accelerates the wear and tear of hoses. The tube should be installed by an expert who'll is able to adhere to all the directions of the manufacturer.

Pressure

Hoses are rated to work at or below their maximum pressure rating. When a tube with a lower operating pressure is used in a system that runs under higher pressure, the hose is more susceptible to breaking because it's not customised to accommodate such pressure.

Operating Temperature

The fluid being conveyed in the tubes is usually scorching. The rubber used to make the tubes will definitely be degraded over time by the high temperatures. Low temperatures do not necessary mean a longer lifespan for the hoses; other factors like acidity and basicity also come into play.

Fittings

A hydraulic hose must have fittings at both ends. The correct installation should follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Fitting configurations should also be taken into consideration, together with elbows and the jump-size components.

Chemical Resistance

The chemical resistance of the material used to make the hose, and all the needed reinforcement materials, should be considered. Materials that have a higher chemical resistance are likely to increase the lifespan of the hose. Information about the chemical resistance of the hose and fitting materials can be found in the manufacturers manuals.

When replacing or conducting repairs on the hydraulic hose pipe, you must ensure that the pressure in the lines has dropped. It's always advisable to call on an expert, such as those at Southern Hydraulic Services, because they have the necessary technical knowledge on how to get and install the most suitable hose for your system. Safety first doesn't let the leak ruin your system or put you in danger.