By Josh Cosford, Contributing Editor
Proper storage of your training and test stand hydraulic hose is crucial to maintaining its performance and longevity. Neglecting best practices can lead to premature hose failure, inconvenient leaks, and even safety risks. This article outlines the key considerations and recommendations for storing hydraulic hoses effectively.
Because hydraulic hoses are critical components in temporary-use systems, their integrity is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation, especially considering the frequency in which they’re installed and removed. Improper storage can result in physical damage, contamination, and degradation of the hose end connection, leading to leaks (and ruined clothes), reduced reliability, or catastrophic failures under high pressure.
The storage environment plays a significant role in maintaining hose quality. Key environmental factors to manage include temperature, humidity and UV exposure. Try to keep your hoses within about 59° to 77°F (15° to 25°C). Extreme heat can cause the rubber to harden and crack, while cold temperatures can make it brittle, especially if the hoses are drained of what is essentially protective hydraulic fluid.
Humidity also plays a factor when storing hydraulic hoses, as excessive moisture can lead to condensation and, therefore, water contamination. If left for too long, excessive moisture can also lead to corrosion of the hose ends or even the potential for mold growth.
Avoid direct sunlight and UV rays, which degrade rubber compounds over time. Store hoses indoors or cover them with UV-resistant materials if outdoor storage is necessary. If your shop or facility runs manufacturing or production, be aware of the potential for fallout, which could potentially enter the hose internals as contamination or degrade the outer cover.
Hydraulic hoses are vulnerable to physical damage during storage, especially if you’re not thoughtful about your method. Avoid tight or sharp bends, which can cause kinks and weaken the hose structure, especially at the crimp joint. Follow the hose’s recommended minimum bend radius, and store hoses on racks or reels designed to support their weight evenly.
Brackets are ideal for short hoses that can be hung vertically and allowed to drip into a catch pan. Slightly longer hoses may be hung in a U-shape to prevent it from draping on the floor. Ensure hoses are not rubbing against sharp or abrasive surfaces, which can compromise the outer cover. Also avoid dragging the hoses on the floor between installation and storage
Contamination is a common cause of hydraulic system failure, and you don’t want to introduce particles into your expensive test stand or your customer’s pumps, valves and actuators in your repair shop. Cap the hose ends or quick couplers with clean, airtight plugs to prevent dust, dirt, or moisture from entering.
Also, remember that synthetic rubber hoses have a shelf life. To prevent hoses from becoming too old, implement a first-in, first-out inventory system and check manufacturer guidelines for the recommended storage duration, which is typically five to ten years, depending on the hose type and materials.
If hoses need to be stored for an extended period, inspect stored hoses periodically for signs of aging, such as cracks, stiffness, or discoloration. Proper hydraulic hose storage is an investment in reliability and safety. By controlling the storage environment, minimizing physical stress, preventing contamination, and adhering to best practices, you can extend the service life of hydraulic hoses and reduce the risk of surprise failures.
Leave a Reply