There are different types of hydraulic fittings suitable for various hose sizes and applications. To avoid mismatches, use the correct type of fitting for your application.
If you want to be a master of hydraulics, then you must learn how to identify the right hydraulic fittings for every job. To make things easy for our readers, we’ve put together a complete guide on types of hydraulic hose fittings, their applications, and how to use them correctly.
Hydraulic fittings are used in various industries, but not all types of fittings can do the same job. Given their widespread usage, picking the pair best suited for your needs in terms of hose size and assembly is crucial. If you’re starting to learn about hydraulics or are a professional in the field, you must know how to identify the proper hydraulic fitting for each job. To make things simpler for our readers, we’ve put together a guide discussing different types of hydraulic hose fittings, their applications, and how they are used.
What do hydraulic hose fittings consist of?
Depending on the intended application or assembly, hydraulic fittings can be made of various materials – brass, stainless steel, and plastic- the most popular.
The most commonly used materials in hydraulic fittings are:
- Plastic Hydraulic Fittings–In contrast to metal fittings, these types are more corrosion-resistant. However, they aren’t as physically strong and lack durability. That’s why industries don’t prefer them despite the lower cost. Metal fittings can better handle the high-pressure ratings required for industrial applications.
- Steel Hydraulic Fittings– Steel alloy fittings are, in comparison to plastic fittings, much more durable. For example, carbon steel can endure temperatures from -53°C up to 260°C.
- Stainless Steel Fittings – As the name would lead you to believe, these hydraulic fittings are made from stainless steel. Unlike regular steel, which can only withstand temperatures up to 648°C, stainless steel is designed for environments with a range of -253°C to 648°C. This challenging nature makes them ideal for highly corrosive environments. Most fittings have a psi rating of 10,000; however, some unique designs boast a 20K Rating – making them 20x stronger than average! The main downside is the price tag, often prompting companies in less demanding industries to explore alternatives.
- Brass Fittings– While not as strong or durable, brass fittings can provide a reliable seal to prevent leaks and maintain SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), ISO (International Organization for Standardization), DIN (Deutsches Institute für Normung), and JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) standards, among others. Brass is rated to work in temperatures from -53°C up to 204°C and under pressures up to 3,000 psi.
- Aluminum Fittings–Although less popular, hydraulic fittings made from aluminum exist and have certain advantages. Aluminum is both light and resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for transportation hydraulics in industries such as automotive manufacturing.
Types of Hydraulic Hose Fittings
There are two primary categories:
- Permanent Crimp Fittings –The most common type of fittings is to attach a hose to a fitting, which requires using a crimping machine.
- Field Attachable – If you don’t have a crimper and your hose is ‘field attachable fitting’ compatible, they are an excellent choice.
Considerations for Picking Hydraulic Fittings:
1. The Security of the Connection, Including the Sealing Type
Be cautious if you use NPT (National Pipe Taper) pipe thread fittings. Although it seems convenient to fix the leak by tightening the connection with this type of fitting, you run a higher chance of getting a crack in the fitting. This is increasingly probable after multiple remakes (loosening and re-tightening the fitting).
2. Pressure Rating
O-ring seals are more resistant to cracks and leaks, making them the preferred choice of many of our customers who operate at high pressure. Stainless steel hose fittings can handle even higher pressures.
Contact Custom Hose Tech for Hydraulic Hose Fittings Minnesota
To Contact Custom Hose Tech, please call us at (952) 888-5580, or you can visit our office at 9323 Garfield Ave. S. Bloomington, MN 55420.
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