Hydraulic hoses are a vital part of agricultural machinery here are some hints and tips on how to help extend the life of your hoses and machinery.
Hoses and couplings differ from one manufacturer to another and might not be interchangeable mixing parts from different manufactures could run you the risk of leaks or couplings slipping which can lead to a detrimental effect on the service life and performance of the machine.
A hydraulic hose is made of 3 parts:
Damaged hoses are dangerous not only because they can split and damage the machine but frayed steel reinforcing can stick through the outer wall and pierce the skin.
“Do not use damaged hoses. They could split and damage the operator or the machine”
An important part of caring for hydraulic hoses is ensuring they are installed correctly
When installing straight line hose there must be enough play to accommodate pressure distribution ensure the hose is not too short.
Another point to consider when installing is the moving parts of the machine, will it effect the needed length of the hose or could it trap the hose.
Clean the machine at the point where a hose needs to be fitted. This prevents contamination in the hose.
When both ends are connected, allow the oil to flow through at low pressure and check for leaks. This also ensures that the air is pushed out of the tubes, thus improving performance.
All hydraulic hoses have limited service life, which can be affected by various factors, such as temperature and handling of the hose.
The main causes of broken hydraulic hoses
Finally ensure all the hoses are secured when in trasnport even if not in use. Trailing hoses can get caught whilst moving or the ends can be dammage by dragging on the ground.
In conclusion – look after your hoses, treat them with care and respect. Regular maintenance and getting it right first time can save you a lot of money in the long run.