To keep your hydraulic system working smoothly and safely, you must know what to do about a leak or damage in your hose. It will prevent severe damage and expensive repairs and keep your machine running in top condition.
Hydraulic hoses are designed to contain fluid and prevent outside contaminants from entering the system. However, they do eventually wear out or suffer damage.
Identify the Problem
When a hydraulic hose breaks down or leaks, fixing it as soon as possible is essential. Doing so can prevent further damage to the machine and save you money in the long run by avoiding additional repairs.
Hydraulic hoses are susceptible to many problems, including leaking fluid and damage from operating equipment at high temperatures or under harsh conditions. Regular inspection can catch these issues before they become serious, preventing them from affecting output and prolonging the need for repair.
Inspecting a hydraulic hose is easy and can be done by someone with little to no tools. However, it is recommended that professional technicians be used to ensure that the work is performed correctly and safely.
Remove the Hose
Removing the hose from the machine is the first step in any hydraulic hose repair. It may involve cutting the hose to remove damaged parts.
Once the damaged section of the hose is cut, it is essential to clean it thoroughly and the fittings it was attached to. It is to prevent any dirt or debris from contaminating the hydraulic fluid that runs through the hose.
It’s best to use a sharp utility knife to make perpendicular cuts on the damaged part of the hose. It will ensure square, clean-cut hose ends.
Remove the Fittings
If your hydraulic hose has broken or corroded fittings, you need to remove them from the machine. Depending on the fittings, you may have to cut them off with a tubing cutter.
Then, replace them with new ones. Check that the replacement fittings meet the standards of your equipment.
Hydraulic hoses and their fittings are designed to work under pressure. It means they can contain caustic chemicals that can cause severe damage to your skin and other parts of your body.
Remove the Clamps
Hydraulic clamps are a common component of hydraulic systems in many pieces of machinery. They help reduce system noise, vibration, and damage from flex fatigue.
Hydraulic clamps can be inspected for external wear or cuts during regular maintenance.
If you find any, you may want to replace the hose immediately. It will prevent more severe problems from developing down the road.
To facilitate re-installation, you must remove the guards, clamps, housings, and other components before you can get at the broken or damaged hose fittings. Please note where these components are located in the machine and label them with a number and letter.
Replace the Fittings
Before removing the hose from the machine, replacing the fittings is vital. It includes couplings, cylinders, and valve spools.
If you do, your hydraulic hose might be damaged or rusted. It could be a significant problem and will cause your equipment to malfunction.
Hydraulic hoses are made of an inner tube and a reinforced layer. The outer layer is typically a weather-, oil-, or abrasion-resistant material.
Replace the Hose
Hydraulic hoses are designed to be strong and resilient but can wear out over time. As the hose degrades, it becomes harder to maintain high pressure and reduces its capacity to hold fluid.
When a hydraulic hose shows signs of damage, it’s time to replace it. It is especially true if it hasn’t been used for an extended time, but it’s also recommended in critical applications.
Ensure the cut ends of the hose are clean before you replace it with new fittings. It will prevent dirt or other contaminants from entering the hose and contaminating the hydraulic fluid.