What is Hydraulic Power?

Hydraulic power is extremely powerful and is used in the world’s most heavy duty machines like excavators, track loaders, forklifts, and cranes. Without it, much of modern day construction would not be possible.

Hydraulic systems pump hydraulic fluid or oil into fluid power which is then passed through valves to create mechanical energy. This hydraulic power can be highly controlled. From just exerting an ounce of pressure all the way to hundreds of tons.

Unfortunately, such machines can easily fail due to low-quality hydraulic fluid, over pressurization, fluid contamination, or old equipment age.

Of all the important parts the function in a hydraulic based system, hoses are one of the most important pieces. They are specifically designed to transfer hydraulic fluid to and from different components of the machine. These hoses are usually flexible and reinforced from the inside-out in order to handle the duress of passing hydraulic fluid.

Hoses are a great asset and have replaced non-flexible piping and tubing in a lot of equipment. Piping and tubing requires that ports and equipment structure to be precise and exact. Meanwhile, hoses can twist/turn and be contoured to accommodate different measurements. Pipes and tubes are also very rigid and have a tendency to crack or break with too much pressure due to the lack of flexibility.

When looking at hydraulic hoses, there are three main parts. The inner tube contains the passage of the fluid. The second layer is reinforced with some type of wire to hold the integrity of the hose. And the third and final layer is to keep contaminants out and protect the inner layers from damage.

The outside layer of these hoses are usually made of:

Since pressure in these hydraulic hoses can raise to high levels, damage can occur, leading to improper equipment function or even total equipment failure. Other pollutants such as saltwater, intense sunlight exposure, temperature, and chemicals can contribute to corrosion of hydraulic hoses as well.

Other human factors such as frequent usability, stretching, crushing, or twisting the hoses can lead to damage and effect the lifespan as well. When using hydraulic equipment, correct use and maintenance is crucial so that equipment remains intact.

It’s also possible that wrong size hoses or wrong material have been installed, leading to a break down. Hydraulic hoses come in different size diameters and lengths. Many hoses are only rated for certain temperature and pressure. Installing incorrect hoses can lead to equipment failure and compromise operator/worker safety.

Hydraulic hoses that are not replaced in due time can lead to equipment malfunction, which can be dangerous and life-threatening when operating heavy machinery. Individuals have been seriously injured and even killed due to hydraulic hoses violently whipping out of place.

It’s essential that factory-trained technicians and mechanics replace hydraulic hoses in order to assure proper installation and future usability.

Often times, hydraulic hoses will fail and become loose due to improper attachment of fittings.

Our team at Contractors Supply LLC has a  professionally trained staff that specializes in hydraulic hose repair and replacement for a variety of machinery.

When questioning the lifespan and replacement of your hydraulic equipment, it’s essential to look at manufacturer warranty and manuals. Hoses don’t last forever. Replacing hoses before they expire is necessary in the construction industry.