Top 4 Reasons Behind Hydraulic Hose Failures

When one single hydraulic hose fails it can compromise your entire operations and will cause a loss in productivity and increased downtime. Downtime can be minimized with simple preventive maintenance and visual inspections on a regular basis. In this post we will discuss the primary reasons for hydraulic hose failures and what to look out for when inspecting hoses.

1. Hose Wear/Rub (Abrasion)

Hydraulic hoses are constantly in a state of varying pressures causing the hose to expand and contract. In some cases, it is moving an arm or mechanism for a particular process. This movement can cause abrasion wear and result in a hose failure.

Remedy: Evaluate hose installation to make sure it is properly installed and routed correctly. Install brackets or zip ties to keep the hose from moving and rubbing. You can always wrap the hose with a spiral guard or sleeve to better protect the hose. Keep in mind, all worn hoses will eventually need to be replaced and it is better to do it during scheduled maintenance .

2. Physical Damage

Hoses are constantly being damaged by other objects hitting or rubbing up against them. This can cause cuts, knicks, tears, or even crushed hoses. Therefore, hydraulic hoses should be routinely inspected, especially on construction and demolition equipment.

Remedy: Proper operation and being careful is the best practice. However, protective wrap or guarding can help along with routine inspections.

3. High Heat

Heat aging can occur when hydraulic hoses are exposed to heat for long periods of time. This heat exposure can cause the rubber compounds to harden and lose their elastomers. The inner tube will also begin to harden and crack and possibly contaminate the system resulting in a hose failure. Signs of heat aging can be identified if the hose retains its bent shape once removed and/or hearing the hose crack when straightening the hose.

Remedy: Route the hose away from high heat and when replacing you may have the option to use a higher temperature hose.Shielding the hose with a heat guard to help insulate is also a possibility.We would highly recommend replacing aged hoses that have been exposed to high heat and checking fluids for contamination.Fluid replacement and filter change may be warranted.

4. Normal Use and Age of Equipment

All hoses have a service life depending on the amount of use and exposure to the elements. If equipment is used on a regular basis it should be inspected routinely. When in doubt, always replace the hose.

Bottom Line

Hose failures cause downtime on a regular basis and can be prevented with regular visual inspections. Keep your facility safe and your people safer with hose inspections. Hose Team has trained technicians and offers complimentary inspections. Emergencies still happen and you can rely on Hose Team with our 24/7 mobile hose shop.

Have a hose you need assessed or replaced? Call us anytime at 937-684-4388