Make sure the hose assembly has been cleaned properly before inserting it into the hydraulic equipment, and then replace it. If the fluid passing through the hydraulic hose contains impurities, it could wear the internal pipe and possibly damage the unit. To remove contaminants, flush the hose with pellets using the Parker hose cleaning kit. Once assembled, cap the groups with Parker’s Clean Seal capsules to prevent recontamination during transport. Dirt does not damage the pipe itself but could pose a danger if it reaches the valves, cylinders and pumps. For the BOA from New Zealand this is important now.
Maintain the right temperature
The temperature of the hydraulic fluid must be within the values indicated in the technical specifications, which vary according to the type of hose. Be sure to check the nominal tube temperature on the marking by visiting Parkerhose.com or by consulting the Hose Products division catalog. If the fluid temperature exceeds the operating temperature, the internal duct may tear and the hose will lose flexibility. If you cannot touch the tube for more than five seconds, the operating temperature may be too high.
Do not exceed the nominal pressure values
Even if the hoses are tested at higher pressures, it is recommended not to exceed the nominal values indicated for safety reasons and to preserve the operating life. The pressure values are shown in the technical specifications of each hose and in the summary table. Pressure values higher than those recommended shorten the operating life of the hose and cause potentially dangerous situations. The standard safety factor is 4, so a component that provides nominal pressures up to 5,000 psi must have an average burst pressure that exceeds 20,000 psi.
Follow a fault analysis
In the event of a hose malfunction, it is necessary to identify the cause by means of specific checks to prevent the same problem from arising again in the future. Remedial action at the root of the fault allows a huge saving of time and money. The flexible hoses produced by Parker’s Hose Products division can be returned for failure verification by filling in the appropriate form Technical Problem Checklist.
Why establish a maintenance schedule?
All companies benefit enormously from a solid preventive maintenance program, ranging from economic savings to worker protection. Here are some examples:
- Efficient production guaranteed by the optimal operating conditions of the equipment.
- Optimization of workshop maintenance personnel thanks to the reduction of emergency interventions.
- Better control over the spare parts warehouse and reduction of the demand for spare parts.
- Reduction of downtime thanks to scheduled inspections.
- Minimum security risks.
- Increase in the operating life of the equipment.
As is well known, hoses represent only a small part of hydraulic equipment and machinery, but they can cause some of the most dangerous failures, as well as serious injuries, if not maintained.
Start with large lines:
Install larger ID lines first as they are the most difficult to fold and maneuver, especially in confined spaces. So the most difficult part of the job has been completed. Smaller lines offer greater routing versatility and can be more easily processed in confined spaces, in order to direct each line to save maximum space. This not only translates into a tidier-looking installation, but makes future changes or adding accessories easier, more convenient, and cheaper.