4 Ways To Tell It’s Time To Repair Your Hydraulic Hose
Hydraulic hoses are everywhere they are a part of so many important applications including construction equipment, recycling equipment, auto repair shops and SO much more. Hydraulic machinery is so important in life today and one major part of what makes hydraulics work is the hydraulic hose. Let’s discuss what a hydraulic hose is, what it does, and when it’s time to repair your hydraulic hose.
In the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, All Phase Hydraulics is your go-to for comprehensive hydraulic solutions. We specialize in providing hydraulic hoses, fittings, repair, and maintenance services.
Hydraulic Hoses, Fittings, and Repair in Grand Rapids MI!
What Is A Hydraulic Hose?
A hydraulic hose is the part of your hydraulic machinery that transfers the hydraulic fluid over to the various areas, parts, and pieces of the machine. Hydraulic hoses need to be made from a durable yet pliable material – generally hoses are constructed with synthetic rubber, thermoplastic, or Teflon. All of these materials are strong and durable, yet movable and adaptable. It’s very common that your hydraulic hose will also have some sort of strong braided textile or fabric covering to reinforce the hose as it works. The hydraulic hose is such a crucial piece to your equipment that it is crucial to have as much reinforcement as possible so that your equipment and machinery can run as long as possible.
If you own any hydraulic machinery, chances are you’ve wondered how long the system will last, as well as how you can begin to notice that you need to replace or repair your hydraulic hose. The truth is there is no good answer for how long a hydraulic hose will last, the lifetime of the hose is dependent on multiple different variables including how you’re using your machinery, in what environment it’s in, and other things as well such as temperature and humidity. So if there is no concrete answer for how long your hose will last, the next best thing is going to be knowing the signs to tell when the time is nearing to get your hoses replaced so that you are not left down and out with unworking machinery while you wait for the pieces and parts to be repaired. When you have a good idea of when your hydraulic hose needs to be replaced or repaired, you can account for that maintenance into your schedule so that you are not left in a poor position with excessive down time.
Take A Look At The Shelf Life
According the Society of Automotive Engineers, the shelf life of any bulk rubber hose is ten years from the time it was manufactured. The manufactured date is on the lay-line of the hose, so be sure to check it and write it down in your records. Keep in mind that this date does not account for any wearing variables such as temperature, application, sunlight and more – but this date might give you a better idea of how long your hose has.
Don’t Ignore Leaks
If you see any leakage, be sure to stop and take a look at your machine, leakage obviously has a source and can be a sign of some sort of break crack, or improper installation or use. Leaks will lead to hydraulic failure if not addressed, so if you do notice any leaks of any kind, be sure to look closer – it’s likely time to replace your hydraulic hose.
Keep An Eye Out For Kinks and Cracks
Staying on a preventive maintenance schedule will help you keep your machinery in great condition and also give you the opportunity to look for any kinks and cracks. Any sort of abrasion, kink or crack is a good sign that your hose is beginning to wear down. It is 100 times better to replace your hose BEFORE failure by watching for the signs of serious wear and tear.
Be Aware Of Rust & Buildup
Rust and different buildup on your hose can be an indication that it is time to look into replacing your hoses. The general rule is that red/orange rust is alarming and there is a need for inspection or replacement. White residue or buildup is OK and is not a cause for concern. If you do have excessive white buildup, we would still encourage you to stick with your preventive maintenance schedule and have someone look into it to be sure that your machinery is in tip top shape.
In many cases, when it’s time to replace or repair your hydraulic hose, there will be signs, so be sure to educate yourself and your staff on preventive maintenance and why it is so important to your machinery. When you have a rigorous and disciplined schedule for preventive maintenance, it becomes easier to spot the trouble signs and it will become easier to tell when it’s time to replace or repair your hydraulic hose. If you want to learn more about the ten top reasons hydraulic hoses fail and how to prevent them, check out our blog here! If you are looking for a reliable source for your hydraulic hoses and fittings, be sure to contact us today, our staff is happy to help you find what you need!