Is There a Standard for Hydraulic Hose Fittings Installation?

Introduction:

Hydraulic hose fittings installation is not only essential for efficient hydraulic system functioning but also for the safety of operators and surrounding equipment. However, one may wonder whether or not there's a standard for hydraulic hose fittings installation. This article addresses that concern and explains why it's crucial to follow certain procedures when installing hydraulic hose fittings.

Why is It Important to Follow Standards When Installing Hydraulic Hose Fittings?

All hydraulic systems operate under high pressure, and hydraulic hose fittings connect various components to make the entire hydraulic system function as one unit. Therefore, installing hydraulic hose fittings correctly and efficiently is vital for several reasons, including:

Ensuring Safety:

In case of a hydraulic hose fitting failure, hydraulic fluid can escape, leading to serious accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. Safety is the primary reason one should follow standards when installing hydraulic hose fittings. When installing hydraulic hose fittings, proper procedures eliminate the risks of hydraulic system failure and minimize accidents' occurrence.

Preventing System Failures:

Hydraulic hose fittings installation standards reduce the likelihood of hydraulic system failures, including hose assembly failure, loose fittings, hose separation, or leakage. Inadequate hose fittings installation may also cause improper sealing, which may lead to pressure loss, decreased performance, and damage to neighboring components.

Increase System Reliability and Performance:

Following the correct installation standards coupled with quality hose fittings increases not only the system's reliability but also the overall efficiency and productivity of work. Proper installation techniques eliminate unnecessary fluid leaks and reduce downtime-related costs, thus increasing system performance and lifespan.

Hydraulic Hose Fittings Installation: Are There Any Standards?

ANSI NGV 3.1-2014 is regarded as the most agreeable standard in the United States for CNG refueling systems. Thus, NGV 3.1-2019 (NGV American National Standards Institute / CSA Group) outlines specifications for hose fittings related to CNG (compressed natural gas) and LNG(diesel fuel), sets limits, and tests stress on all hose fittings utilized for CNG refueling.

Also, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is an organization that enforces international standards for hoses and hose fittings for hydraulic systems. SAE J516 (Hydraulic Hose Fittings) and SAE J517 (Hydraulic Hose) establish strict performance criteria, tolerances, and functional testing to ensure safe and reliable hydraulic hose fittings installation.

While these are not the only standards that exist, they are crucial to follow to ensure proper hydraulic hose fittings installation. These standards ensure not only safety but also efficiency and productivity at work, enabling operators to work effectively.

Installation Procedure for Hydraulic Hose Fittings:

Even with stringent installation standards, the incorrect installation procedure can lead to catastrophic failures. Therefore, what are the right installation procedures that one should follow? Below are some of the correct installation procedures and techniques for hydraulic hose fittings:

1. Proper Hose End Cutting:

The first and most fundamental part of installing a hydraulic hose fitting is cutting and cleaning the hose end properly. Use a hose cutter to cut the hose square and clean it using a wire brush, ensuring that no debris remains on the inner surface.

2. Thorough Inspection and Selection of Hose Fittings:

After cutting the hose, inspect the hose end and the fittings for damages and wear and select the appropriate fitting size. During the inspection, verify the fitting threads' compatibility to ensure they fit perfectly and create a tight seal.

3. Lubricate the Hose End:

Before installing the fitting, lubricate the hose end and the fitting threads to help them slide smoothly into place. Lubrication also prevents seal damage or blocking in the threads and aids in sealing the joint.

4. Position the hose End into the Fitting:

After lubricating, place the hose end into the fitting body. Ensure that the hose end goes in straight and that it bottoms out in the fitting. Avoid twisting the hose end during insertion or over tightening the fitting nut, which may damage the seal.

5. Crimp the fitting:

Pressure crimping connects the hose to the fitting and is critical for a safe and secure connection. Use a recommended crimping machine to crimp the fitting, ensuring that it meets the manufacturer's specifications.

Conclusion:

Installing hydraulic hose fittings follows specific procedures to ensure safety and operational reliability. Hydraulic hose fittings installation standards such as ANSI NGV 3.1-2014 and SAE J516 and J517 should be followed carefully to prevent the risks associated with hydraulic system failure.

Connecting a hydraulic hose to a fitting is a complex process that requires significant know-how. Still, following the installation processes listed above can aid in ensuring the hydraulic system's effectiveness and reliability. Always bear in mind that the primary goal of hydraulic hose fittings installation is to guarantee safety and minimize damage in the case of a hydraulic system failure.