Hydraulic fluid is transported through components using tubes, pipes, and hoses. Among these, the hydraulic hose is a crucial element of the hydraulic system, providing flexibility and enhancing safety while minimizing system size. While it’s feasible to design a hydraulic system using only tubes and pipes, doing so comes with significant limitations. Tubes and pipes lack flexibility, resulting in a system with more connectors and a larger footprint. This increase in connectors raises the likelihood of leaks and complicates maintenance.

What is an Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida Hydraulic Hose Assembly?

A hydraulic hose consists of three main parts: the inner tube, reinforcement, and cover. The inner tube is in direct contact with the fluid, while the reinforcement and cover serve as protective layers. Connecting these hoses or integrating them with other components can lead to leaks. To mitigate this risk, technicians and engineers use metal fittings, which feature a socket that encases the outer cover of the hose and a stem that fits inside the inner tube.

The process of securely attaching Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida fittings to both ends of the hose and connecting it to the hydraulic system for the effective transmission of pressurized hydraulic fluid is known as hydraulic hose assembly. Selecting the appropriate hose and fittings for the specific application is a critical first step in this process. Let’s explore additional factors to consider for an efficient hose assembly.

Hose Size: Hydraulic hoses come in various sizes from different manufacturers. It’s the technician’s or engineer’s duty to evaluate the hose requirements and choose an appropriate one. The inner diameter is a key factor in this selection. Hoses with larger diameters can lower fluid pressure, while those with smaller diameters may restrict fluid flow—both scenarios can be explained by Pascal’s law.

Temperature & Pressure: The operating environment for hydraulic systems can vary widely. It’s essential to consider both external and internal temperatures of the hose. In automotive applications, high external temperatures can damage the hose cover and lead to leaks. Furthermore, systems without oil coolers may experience elevated internal temperatures, causing wear on the inner tube. Therefore, it’s crucial to assess the pressure rating of the hose.

Fluid Compatibility: The choice of Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida hydraulic fluid depends on system applications, with various fluid properties influencing this decision. Fluid compatibility is vital for extending hose lifespan. While most mineral oils work well with common hose types, it’s important to verify compatibility when selecting hoses and fittings.

Hydraulic Hose Assembly Replacement

After assembling a hydraulic hose, proper maintenance is essential. Both internal factors (such as contaminants, pressure, temperature, and corrosion) and external factors (like pulling, crushing, and kinking) can affect the hose assembly’s longevity.

Many businesses choose to keep a Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida crimping machine on-site for quick and efficient hose assemblies. Cross Hose and Fittings supplies businesses with the necessary equipment and training to ensure hose quality and safety are prioritized. Below are step-by-step instructions for assembling hydraulic hoses.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

– Hydraulic hose

– Hydraulic hose fitting

– Hose lubricant

– Calipers

– Paint pen

– Safety goggles

– Crimping machine

– Crimping die and collar

– Ultra Clean nozzle, projectiles, and clean seal caps

Step 2: Put on Safety Gear

At this stage, make sure to wear your safety equipment. Company policy mandates the use of safety glasses during cutting and Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida crimping processes.

Step 3: Measure and Cut the Hose

Measure the required length of hose and cut it with a hose saw. For critical measurements, remember to factor in the cutoff length. Ensure the cut edge is clean; if not, use a file to smooth the ends. Different saws have varying cutting specifications, so compare their capabilities. Always clean the hose ends to minimize contamination and reduce the risk of assembly failure.

Before installing the end connections, fire Ultra Clean projectiles through the hose to clean any contaminants. Shoot one projectile from each end of the hose to ensure thorough cleaning where the hose nozzle will be inserted.

Step 4: Select the Fitting Series

When choosing a fitting series, consider factors like working pressure, style, type, orientation, attachment methods, and corrosion resistance. 

Step 5: Mark Insertion Depth and Attach Hose Fittings

Determine the fitting’s insertion depth using a hose insertion depth block or by marking the hose end. Draw a thick chalk line to indicate this depth. If necessary, lubricate the hose with P-80, but skip lubrication if using a spiral hose. Push the hose into the fitting until the mark aligns with the end of the shell.

Step 6: Check Crimper Capabilities and Adjust Settings

Verify the crimping machine’s capabilities and adjust its settings or change the die as needed. Ensure you select the correct crimp diameter for each assembly. For Parker hose assemblies, consult Parker Crimpsource for technical specifications.

Step 7: Select the Die

Choose the appropriate crimper die set, as each die is designed for specific hoses and fittings. Check the crimper decal for verification. If needed, lubricate the die bowl with high-quality lithium grease.

Step 8: Insert the Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida Hose into the Crimping Machine

Place the hose end into the crimping machine (usually bottom loading) and through the die so the hydraulic fitting sits above the die. Ensure the top of the hose, now inside the fitting, is not visible above the die. For Parker crimpers, rest the fitting’s bottom on the die step.

Step 9: Position the Die Ring

Place the die ring on the adapter bowl’s step, referring to the crimper decal for tool selection.

Step 10: Crimp the Hose

Start the machine. The Automotive Lift Repair Tampa Florida cylinder head will gradually descend, compressing the collar and the die. Avoid touching the machine until the collar is firmly at the bottom of the die, at which point the machine will stop.

Step 11: Check the Crimp Diameter

Inspect the chalk mark on the hose. If it has moved from the base of the fitting, the hose or fitting shifted during crimping, indicating a poor crimp despite a tight fit. If the chalk mark remains in place, the crimp is successful. Measure the crimp diameter on a flat surface of the crimped shell and verify it against the decal.