Hydraulic hose fittings connect tubes and pipes to pumps, valves, and cylinders attached to the hydraulic system. Picking the wrong fitting can result in an ineffective hydraulic system. It can also be a huge safety hazard in many situations.
An Overview of Hydraulic Hose Fitting Materials
The materials used to create hose fittings vary widely.
- Plastic fittings are more corrosion resistant, but overall, less durable.
- Steel fittings are heat-resistant and more durable than some alternates.
- Stainless steel is also resistant to even higher temperatures.
- Brass fittings are less robust, but they provide leak-free operation for many substances.
Some fittings are occasionally made from aluminum, but they are much more common in the automotive industry.
The STAMPED Method
It is a good idea to use the STAMPED method to choose the right fitting to meet your needs.
S: Size
T: Temperature
A: Application
M: Materials or Media
P: Pressure
E: End
D: Delivery
Size
You should always measure the outside of the hose and the wall thickness to find the right fitting. The inside diameter of the hose should be considered to help with proper flow and minimal pressure loss.
Temperature
Keep the average, minimum, and maximum temperature in mind when choosing fitting materials.
Application
How the hose will be used is an essential factor to get the right fitting. Consider materials, hose movement, and external factors.
Media or Materials
Media considers the fluid that will move through the hose. Be sure that the media is compatible with the fittings you plan to use.
Pressure
Whether your system is static or dynamic will have a huge impact on the appropriate fittings you need.
End
You need an appropriate end piece to connect the hoses to the system. This area is usually the weakest link in your system, so identifying the clamps and fittings you need at this location is especially important.
Delivery
Delivery addresses how the hose fittings will get to the customer and how they can be adequately maintained.
Finding the Right Fit
Marvel’s Portable Welding can help you find the hydraulic hose parts that you need. Learn more by visiting our website.