Hose Installation
Seven Installation Tips to Optimize the Life Cycle of your Hoses
Previously on the blog, we’ve discussed the STAMPED approach to help specify the correct hose for your application - Size, Temperature, Application, Material, Pressure, End Connections, and Delivery. There’s a lot that goes into selecting the right hose, but it doesn’t end there. Here are seven installation considerations to help increase the life cycle of your hose applications.
Consider This
Hose Length
Take into consideration hose movement, system pressurization, and thermal expansion when determining hose length. Installing hose that does not have length to accommodate these factors may reduce the life of the hose. When considering length, be sure to understand the difference between live length – the flexible length of the hose or tubing assembly – and the overall length or distance from end to end.
Minimum Bend Radius
Installing a hose at a bend radius less than specified by the manufacturer will compromise the hose and lead to reduced life of the hose. The Swagelok catalog specifies the minimum bend radius for each series of hose for both static and dynamic applications.
Hose rupture or leakage may result from bending too close to the hose fitting.
Hose Strain
Certain applications are sure to result in hose strain. Utilize elbows and adaptor fittings to ensure you’re applying the least amount of strain to the hose.
Motion Absorption
Distribute movement and prevent bends smaller than the hose’s minimum bend radius by providing sufficient hose length.
Machine Tolerance
Allow for changes in the length of hose resulting from machine motion and tolerances
System Pressure Changes
Always allow sufficient hose length to accommodate changing system pressures. Do not connect high- and low-pressure hoses.
Bending in One Plane
Similar to hose strain, avoid twisting hose by bending in one plane only. If faced with a compound bend requirement, use multiple hoses pieces or other isolation methods.
A Final Word
Flexible hose products have a limited life span and installers must be aware of potential performance and safety issues, particularly when the conditions of service include high working pressures and/or the conveyance or containment of hazardous fluids.
it is important to establish an inspection and maintenance schedule based on your system applications and replacement history. For more information on Hose Safety and Maintenance, we have two whitepapers that discuss each in greater detail.