Even in situations when hoses have been properly selected and installed, the lifespan of the hoses may not be extended if there is no maintenance plan in place. How often you should inspect the hoses or consider replacing the hoses before the failure actually happens will depend on a variety of factors, including the following:
- The gravity of the application
- The potential for failure
- Experience with hose failures in the past
If you have a maintenance plan in place, you will need to ensure everyone follows the maintenance plan properly. The maintenance plan will also require users to take the following actions:
PROPER INSPECTIONS OF HOSES OR FITTINGS
If you want to know if your hoses are at risk for failing now or in the future, you will need to perform a visual inspection. A visual inspection of the hose assembly should be a regular occurrence. If you notice anything out of the ordinary in regard to your hoses or pipe fittings, you should not continue using the machine until the hose or pipe fitting has been inspected further, repaired, or replaced.
Here are some things that will indicate a replacement needs to be made before the machine can be used:
- Cracks or cuts on the fittings or hoses
- Charred hoses
- Leaks in the hose or pipe fitting
- Soft or loose cover
PROPER INSPECTIONS OF COMPONENTS
During your inspections, you may notice some parts of the assembly that will need extra attention because of the condition they are in. Some parts will need to be replaced, tightened, or repaired. If you encounter any of the following during your inspection, you will need to take the necessary actions:
- An overabundance of dirt or other buildups
- Leaks
- Clamps and guards that are worn out
- Entrapment of air
PROPER TESTING
It is important to ensure the system you are using is operating at the highest level of efficiency. It is important to check for any leaks or breakdowns. When people are testing the systems and machines, it is important to follow the safety measures to avoid any injuries. The inspector will need to ensure the hose is only operating at its highest efficiency and not beyond it.
RECOGNIZING HOSE FAILURES
How can hydraulic power be accomplished? When high-pressure fluids are used to transfer energy, hydraulic power is created. Fittings, hose assemblies, and hoses all have a part in hydraulic power by transmitting fluids at very high pressures.
When any type of fluid is under significant pressure, it can create a very dangerous situation. When any type of pressure is created, hazards can occur. It is important to remain cautious whenever one is working with fluids due to the opportunity for excess pressure to be created.
If you notice one or more hose failures, the system or machine should no longer be in use and everyone should leave the area. If you only shut down the hydraulic pump, the problem you are having may not be resolved. There are some parts in a system that can cause pressure to remain in the hose assembly. The pressure can continue even when the equipment is not operating the way it should.
If you notice any holes in the hose, hydraulic fluids could be emitted. These hydraulic fluids can be very harmful, and eliminating the pressure does not always happen quickly. After the pressure has been eliminated, the hose assembly can be removed. If any type of failure is recognized, it is important to remove it and replace it.
In order to fully protect your system or machines, it is important to properly inspect and replace parts when you notice failures or notice a potential for failure. Custom Hose Tech is the leading hydraulic hose and fittings service specialist in Minnesota. Give us a call at (952) 888-5580 today!