Hydraulic hoses in construction machinery
Hydraulic hoses are an essential element of the entire hydraulic system of a construction machine and all other equipment equipped with power hydraulics, used in such industries as construction, aviation, industry, agriculture, forestry, automotive etc.
Hydraulics is commonly associated with such components as a pump, engine, actuator or distributor. Meanwhile, the efficiency of unassuming hoses and their proper selection for the device is the basis for the performance and work efficiency of the machine, as well as safety on the construction site.
In our article, we objectively bring closer the functions of hydraulic hoses and share a handful of useful user information.
What are hydraulic hoses actually used for?
Hoses connect individual elements of the hydraulic system - in this way a tight hydraulic circuit is created and hydraulic energy (liquid or compressed gas) is transferred to the receivers, making it possible for machines and devices to perform movements.
Additionally, constant circulation of the working medium is ensured, which is most often hydraulic oil. Let's also mention the function of separating from vibrations caused by working devices.
Given that hydraulic hoses play a key role in the entire power hydraulic system, it is extremely important to select them according to their purpose and strictly according to the manufacturer's recommendations, for a specific machine model.
Such aspects as the material they are made of, diameter, number of layers and permissible working temperatures and pressures also matter. In turn, any, even minor damage to the hoses, is always a reason for their urgent replacement.
How to choose hydraulic hoses for a machine?
To make sure that the hoses fit a particular machine, we check things like: installation location, type of medium conducted (use of material resistant to the action of a specific liquid), system pressure, medium and ambient temperature (extreme temperatures can lead to damage), bending radii.
Additionally, we pay attention to the size of the hoses, which is necessary to ensure efficient flow and speed of the medium and to limit pressure losses.
Making mistakes at the stage of selecting hydraulic hoses can result in their faster wear and tear, as well as weakening or failure of the entire system.
It is worth buying hydraulic hoses and other equipment from one manufacturer, as this ensures the proper fit of individual elements.
The important role of proper assembly
Precise, professional assembly of hydraulic hoses is the basis for proper functioning and fault-free operation of the entire system. It is required that each hose be attached to the appropriate fittings in the crimping process.
The ends should be mounted in such a way that their disconnection from the hose is possible only by cutting or unscrewing. All these activities should be performed by a professional service with experience in this type of work and equipped with specialized tools, including for conducting a pressure test.
It should not be forgotten that all hydraulic hoses will eventually require replacement, which results from their natural wear and tear under the influence of working in extremely unfavorable conditions.
In a situation where the machine regularly experiences hydraulic hose failures, we suggest investing in more expensive, durable abrasion-resistant hoses. They are much more resistant to aging processes.
