causes of compressed air hose failures
Misapplication or improper use is the most common reason for compressed air hose failure. Misapplication can either be accidental or deliberate. It doesn’t matter what the case may be, it is important to take steps that will prevent any misapplications. Check the hose for signs that it has been subject to abuse in the past and take it out of service if necessary. Incorrect coupling and mixing of hoses may also lead to a hose’s premature failure. Finally, improper temperature exposure can cause discoloration or cracking of the tube and cover.
When examining the hose’s crimp, look for signs of excessive movement. It could be too short or too lengthy. Poor routing can also lead to excessive hose movement. A crimp that begins too close to a fitting can cause the hose to shorten by about four percent. Proper routing ensures that the hose is longer than the fitting. For example, it should be routed straight for at least two times its ID before bending. If excessive movement is detected, an appropriate clamping assembly must be installed. If it’s impossible to fix the hose’s crimp, replacement is recommended.
Other common causes of compressed air hose failures include high air pressure and continuous flexing in the same area. Excessive wear can result in a sudden burst, which can cause serious injury or damage to the operator. You can avoid such incidents by understanding the signs of a compressed air hose failure.
method of extending the life of compressed air hoses
Using a proper method to maintain compressed air hoses can increase the life of the air hoses. Different hose materials have different properties, and should be chosen according to their intended use and the media they are carrying. You should choose the right hose material to suit your application. Incorrect hoses can lead to dangerous situations.
Modern air compressors produce high-pressure air, which requires more reliable and safer connections. These high pressures can cause hoses to be damaged by heat. High-pressure can also cause the fittings to come loose from the hose. It is therefore important to use a new hose system to keep them in good condition.
When working with compressed air, you should never cut or fray the hoses. If they become frayed, replace them immediately. To avoid trip hazards, keep them away from heat. Compressed air is one of the safest utilities to use and has many advantages.
If you’re working with compressed air at high temperatures, you should consider using corrugated metal hose. This will reduce the risk of temperature-induced failures. It also prevents the blow-off of couplings. Unlike rubber hoses, metal hoses feature welded-on end fittings that do not need periodic tightening. These fittings can also help to cool down the media during prolonged exposure.
Ensure proper installation of the hose and check for leaks. Properly installing hoses can lead to pinholes and blow-outs. Incorrectly fitting clamps can also cause hoses to burst prematurely. Rotate the hose to ensure that it wears evenly.
Compressed air hoses should have a minimum radius of bend
The minimum bending radius of compressed air hoses is an important characteristic that must be met to avoid problems with the air hose assembly. This radius is dependent on the hose diameter, operating pressure, and the hose length. For example, a typical -8 inch ID single wire braid hose has a minimum bend radius of two and a half inches at 750 psi. At 2000 psi the minimum radius of bend would be seven inches. Spiral hoses have a minimum bend radius at twelve inches.
When selecting a compressed air hose, it is important to consider the operating pressure and the ambient temperature. The operating pressure is the pressure that a hose can withstand at a static temperature. The minimum bending radius for compressed air hoses can be measured from the inside of the bend when it is in static. To ensure proper performance, it is important to specify the maximum tube length and bending radius while placing an order.
Another important factor when determining the flexibility of a hose is its force-to-bend, or the amount of stress that is needed to bend a hose. A hose with a small bore and thick walls will be more flexible than one that has a large bore and thick walls. However, be careful not to overbend a hose, as overbending may lead to kinking.
