There are many hydraulic systems used in commercial and industrial applications that use hydraulic lines that need to be appropriately fitted to ensure the system's smooth operation. Getting the correct hoses for the system is not always a matter of picking one, there are some things you need to know about the hoses and how to select the right one for your application.

Rated Hoses

Hydraulic hoses are not all made to support the same amount of pressure in the hose. Selecting the proper hose that can withstand the stress in your hydraulic system is critical to ensure the hose does not rupture with use. 

Hydraulic hoses are marked on the outside of the casing with the PSI (pounds per square inch) rating for the hose and the diameter of the line. The hose's construction will often dictate the pressure rating, and, for systems that require extreme pressures, the hose may even have a stainless steel braided casing on the outside to help reinforce and protect the hose inside. 

Hose Fittings

The ends of most premade hydraulic hoses have options for fittings installed on the line when you purchase them. If you need a specific size or orientation on the fitting, let the hose supplier know so they can get you the right one. 

Often a hose that needs to attach in a tight space will have a ninety-degree bend on the fitting or a long extension tube of steel to allow it to pass through an area without damage. If the fitting is not oriented correctly, it can be difficult or even impossible to engage the threads and install the fitting, so take the old hose to the dealer and show them what you need. 

Custom Hoses

Hydraulic machine shops can often make custom hydraulic hoses for non-standard applications or systems that no longer have replacement parts available. Take the old hoses to the shop for reference, and often they can replicate them for you within a few days. If you know the system pressures that the hoses need to stand up to, let the hydraulic shop tech know, but if not, they will work off the diameter and wall thickness of the old hoses to create duplicates of what you were already using. 

The tech will also follow the length of the hoses to match the old hoses, but if you need more length, you can ask the hydraulic shop to extend the hydraulic hoses for you a bit. When the hoses are complete, they will fit the same way the old ones did and should stand up to the same pressures and use as the original hoses. 

This option is often a bit more expensive than off-the-shelf hoses, but the hoses are not available on some systems, and having them constructed to fit your needs is the best way to ensure your hydraulic hoses work the way you need them to. 

For more information, visit a hydraulic hose shop near you. 

Share