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EXTENDING YOUR HOSE'S LIFE
When selecting a hose for your fluid power system, it is imperative to pay
attention to details. A hydraulic hose consists of an inner tube that carries
the fluid, a reinforcement layer, and a protective outer layer.
The inner tube must have some flexibility and needs to be compatible with the
type of fluid it will carry. One detail you can not overlook is that the fluid
may be compatible with the hose, but the additives in the fluid may not.
Additives in hydraulic fluid can extend the life of the fluid, help reduce the
effects of corrosion, and even enhance the fluid's performance. However, they
can also affect hose life and seal life If the additives are not compatible with
the hose or seal material.
Other factors contributing to hose failure, and ultimately leakage are:
- Flexing the hose to less than the specified minimum bend radius.
- Twisting, pulling, kinking, crushing or abrading the hose.
- Operating the hydraulic system outside recommended operating temperatures.
- Exposing the hose to pressure surges above the maximum operating pressure.
- Intermixing the hose, fittings, or assembly equipment not recommended as
compatible by the manufacturer.
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