Hydraulic hoses are vital but need to be repaired or replaced eventually. Regular preventive maintenance will minimize the need for replacements but not eliminate it.

Inspecting hydraulic hoses for signs of discoloration, brittleness, or leakage is important in preventive maintenance. 

Rust

When a hydraulic hose begins to rust, it indicates a leak somewhere along its length. This can be a serious problem as it will cause equipment failure and potential harm to those using the machine. If a hose shows signs of rust, it should be replaced immediately. Many factors, such as extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and exposure to corrosive chemicals, can cause rust. A hose with rust should be replaced soon to minimize damage and avoid system downtime. Outer cover damage is another indication that a hose needs replacement. Small nicks and scuffs are normal, but anything beyond this indicates that the hose is being subjected to significant abrasion, which will reduce its ability to take pressure in that area. Kinks are also a sign that it is time to replace the hose, as they can lead to permanent structural damage and should be caught early by inspection. That is why it is a good idea to consult with experts in hydraulic hose replacement Charlotte NC to address rust and kinks early.

Damage

A hydraulic hose is a tube reinforced with metal within a rubber casing. These tubes are often subjected to high-pressure fluids that can put them at risk of damage and failure if not treated with care. Regular inspections are the best way to ensure that these hoses do not fail. When inspecting your hydraulic hoses, look for signs of abrasion like rust or white residue buildup. This indicates that the hose is leaking and needs to be replaced. Additionally, if you see any kinks in the hose, this can cause structural damage that will reduce its ability to handle pressure in that area.

In about 80% of the cases of hydraulic hose failure, the issue was caused by external physical damage. This includes pulling, kinking, crushing, and abrasion. This damage is usually easy to spot during a visual inspection and can be prevented by staying on a preventive replacement schedule. If a hydraulic hose does not get replaced before it fails, it can cause damage to other components in the system, downtime, and injury to employees.

Leaks

A leaking hydraulic hose is a sign that it needs to be replaced and a safety hazard for anyone working nearby. A leak can lead to a loss of pressure, which affects how the machinery operates and increases the risk of equipment failure. If the hose leaks hydraulic fluid or air, it should be removed and replaced to avoid a possible system failure. A regular preventive maintenance schedule and inspection sheet record can help spot potential issues and ensure that your hoses get replacements when needed. If you notice that the hose is leaking, first turn off the power to the machine and relieve any pressure that may be present in the system. Once the hose is disconnected from its fittings, carefully remove it and find a replacement that is compatible with your equipment. Be sure to replace the hose with the same size, pressure rating, and environmental characteristics.

Unusual Noises

A hose making unusual noises indicates internal damage and should be replaced immediately. This can lead to equipment failure and safety issues for employees working in the area.

Hydraulic hoses move pressured fluid throughout your industrial and commercial equipment, from airport air traffic control units to excavation machinery on construction sites. These hoses must withstand high-pressure levels and work efficiently under extreme conditions to do their job.

Regular visual inspections can help avert hose failure before it occurs. Checking the date of manufacture on your hoses and keeping logs can help you establish a replacement schedule, avoiding expensive downtime and possible injury to workers. Other signs to look for include abrasions, kinks, exposed wires, improper routing, oil leaks, and unusual noises.