Hydraulic hose is a flexible pipe used in hydraulic systems, mainly for transferring hydraulic oil or other liquid media. It is responsible for transporting fluids and energy to different components in the system. It consists of a inner tube, a reinforcing layer and an outer cover, a reinforcing layer and an outer sheath, and has good oil resistance, pressure resistance and corrosion resistance.
Strongflex is a leading supplier of hydraulic hose in China, with 20 years of experience in the hose industry. We can supply a variety of hydraulic hoses. This is our hydraulic hose catalog, which can be read and downloaded.
Hydraulic hose is hose that can convey the hydraulic fluid between components in hydraulic systems. It is like the blood vessels of the hydraulic system, transmitting power to various components，maintaining the normal operation of machinery.
Hydraulic hoses are also used for high pressure applications because of their one or more layers of reinforcement. The inner tube layer is usually made of high-pressure and oil-resistant materials (such as synthetic rubber), the reinforcement layer is generally made of steel wire braiding or spiral winding to improve the compressive strength of the pipeline, and the outer cover can protect the hydraulic pipe from damage by the external environment.
Strongflex hydraulic hose guide
Types of Hydraulic Hoses
There are two common ways of classifying hydraulic hoses, one is according to the pressure rating and the other is according to the material.
According to the pressure rating can be divided into:
Low pressure hydraulic hose: Below 1.6Mpa and most commonly with textile/fabric braid reinforcement
Medium pressure hydraulic hose: Up to 10Mpa and most commonly with wire braid reinforcement
High pressure hydraulic hose: 10Mpa–100Mpa with a mix of wire braid and spiral braid reinforcement
Ultra-high pressure hose is a hose with a pressure exceeding 100Mpa
According to the material is divided into:
Steel wire braided hydraulic hose: usually one or two layers of steel wire braided hydraulic hose, with easy to install and easy to operate.such as SAE 100R1, SAE 100R2, SAE 100R17.
Steel wire reinforced hydraulic hose: usually four or six layers of steel wire reinforcing layer, with excellent pressure resistance. such as DIN EN856 4SH, SAE 100R9.
Textile reinforced hydraulic hose: one or two layers of textile braided hydraulic hose with light weight and high flexibility. such as SAE100R3, SAE100R6.
Thermoplastic hose: it is made of thermoplastic material, they are usually used for high-pressure applications. They are lightweight, flexible and wear-resistant. such as SAE100R7, SAE 100R8.
Metal hoses: The metal braided hose can withstand extremely high temperatures and pressures and is commonly used in harsh working environments, such as PTFE hose.
Working pressure refers to the maximum continuous pressure that a hydraulic hose can safely withstand over the long term under normal operating conditions; it is typically expressed in units of PSI (pounds per square inch) , MPa or Bar.
The conversion between these units is: 1 bar ≈ 14.5 PSI, and 1 MPa = 10 bar.
The parameter table for each hydraulic hose model will indicate the working pressure corresponding to different hose sizes. The working pressure decreases as the hose diameter increases. Working pressure is related not only to size but also to the reinforcement layer. Working pressure is one of the most important parameters for customers when selecting a hose. The working pressure of the hose must be greater than the maximum pressure of the hydraulic system.
Burst Pressure
The burst pressure of a hydraulic hose refers to the maximum pressure the hose assembly can withstand before failing due to rupture during a hydrostatic test; it is a critical indicator of structural strength and safety margin, as exceeding this limit causes the hose to burst. For safety reasons, the burst pressure is set at four times the working pressure. During operation, a hydraulic hose must never be subjected to burst-level pressure for extended periods, as this poses an imminent risk of rupture.
Hose Size
Hydraulic hose size typically refers to the hose’s inner diameter (ID), which is the internationally recognized standard for designation. The inner diameter is a crucial factor determining the hose’s flow capacity; a larger inner diameter allows for a higher volume of fluid flow.
There are various ways to designate hydraulic pipe sizes; the following are some common examples: Metric sizes, also known as standard sizes, are certified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). They are typically designated by the prefix “DN” followed by a number (e.g., DN25, DN50). The number indicates the nominal bore (internal diameter) of the pipe in millimeters; for instance, DN25 signifies a nominal bore of 25 mm.
Imperial sizes, also known as inch sizes, are primarily used in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. They are typically designated by the unit “inch” (or a symbol for it) followed by a number (e.g., 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch). The number indicates the nominal bore of the pipe in inches; for instance, 1/2 inch signifies a nominal bore of 1/2 inch.
The universal “Dash” system is also commonly used. The Dash number on a hose (e.g., -4, -8) indicates the internal diameter in increments of 1/16 inch; for example, -8 corresponds to 1/2 inch.
German standard sizes, also known as DIN standards, are established by the German Institute for Standardization. They are typically designated by the prefix “D” followed by a number (e.g., D16, D32). The number indicates the outside diameter of the pipe in millimeters; for instance, D16 signifies an outside diameter of 16 mm.
Dash Size
Inch
mm
-4
4/16″ = 1/4″
6.35 mm
-6
6/16″ = 3/8″
9.53 mm
-8
8/16″ = 1/2″
12.70 mm
-10
10/16″ = 5/8″
15.88 mm
-12
12/16″ = 3/4″
19.05 mm
-16
16/16″ = 1″
25.40 mm
Temperature Range
Standard hydraulic hoses typically operate within a temperature range of -40°C to +100°C, with peak temperatures reaching 120°C; the specific range depends on the conveyed medium and the hose material. When selecting a hydraulic hose, it is essential to consider both the temperature of the conveyed medium and the ambient temperature; the hose’s operating temperature range must exceed the range of temperatures to which it will be exposed.
Specialized hydraulic hoses can withstand extreme temperatures, with low-temperature variants capable of operating at -55°C and high-temperature versions reaching 155°C.
This radius affects both the installation and subsequent operation of the hose. Selecting a hose with an unsuitable bend radius can lead to a shortened service life, hose rupture and oil leakage, and a drop in system pressure.
Reinforcement Type
The reinforcement layer of a hydraulic hose acts as the “skeleton” structure situated between the inner and outer rubber layers; it is typically formed by braiding or spiraling high-strength steel wire or high-tenacity fibers. This layer directly determines the hose’s pressure-bearing capacity. Since reinforcement configurations vary across different hose models, it is essential to select a hose with the appropriate reinforcement layer based on specific application requirements.
What Does a Hydraulic Hose Do?
The main role of hydraulic hose in a hydraulic system is to act as a delivery pipe for hydraulic fluid. It delivers the hydraulic fluid produced by the hydraulic pump from the pump to the actuating elements (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic motors, etc.), and carries the pressure and flow in the system to ensure the normal operation of the hydraulic system.
What Are Hydraulic Hoses Used For
Hydraulic hose is a very important pipeline widely used in various industrial fields. Here are hydraulic hose applications:
Choosing the right hydraulic hose is very important for hydraulic systems. When select the right hydraulic hoses, you should carefully consider according to the actual situation. Consider the working environment, working pressure, working temperature and the medium being transported, as well as the matching of joints and components, and select hydraulic hoses of appropriate material, size and others.
Recommended Hydraulic Hose Selections for Typical Application
Hydraulic hoses are flexible pipes that serve as the fluid conduits for hydraulic oil in hydraulic power equipment. They typically consist of an inner rubber layer, a reinforcement layer (steel wire braiding or winding), and a wear-resistant outer rubber layer. They can withstand the high pressure and high pulsations in hydraulic systems and are widely used in construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and industrial production lines for power transmission.
1. Construction machinery (excavators, loaders, cranes, etc.)
Construction machinery operates outdoors, frequently moving and exposed to prolonged sunlight and wind, enduring temperature fluctuations and mechanical wear. Therefore, hydraulic hoses are required to be pulse-resistant, have excellent wear resistance, and possess good flexibility and weather resistance.
Based on operating conditions, the following recommendations are made: • Medium-pressure return/control lines: SAE 100 R1AT / EN853 1SN • High-pressure main oil lines: SAE 100 R2AT / EN853 2SN • Ultra-high pressure impact applications: EN856 4SP / 4SH • For confined spaces: EN857 1SC / 2SC
Hydraulic hoses in agricultural machinery must withstand not only the wear and tear and pulsations of mechanical movement, but also the exposure to outdoor elements such as wind and sun, as well as the corrosive effects of dust, mud, fertilizers, and pesticides. Therefore, hydraulic hoses are required to have good weather resistance, wear resistance, and a certain degree of resistance to chemicals, while also being economical and durable.
• General hydraulic applications: R1AT / R2AT • Low-temperature environments: Low-temp compound • Chemical spraying: Hydraulic hoses with chemical-resistant inner tubes
Industrial equipment generally operates under relatively stable pressure and in controlled environments, usually at fixed locations. However, it may be exposed to high temperatures, oil, and prolonged static bending. Therefore, hydraulic hoses for industrial equipment require oil resistance, high-temperature resistance, and sometimes fire resistance and anti-static properties.
Commonly used hydraulic hoses are “steel wire braided hydraulic hoses” (such as SAE 100R1AT, 100R2AT). These hoses have one or two layers of steel wire braiding, providing a good balance of pressure resistance and flexibility, and are cost-effective. For high-pressure applications, “four-layer steel wire spiral hoses” can be used.
For high-temperature areas: hoses with high-temperature resistant synthetic rubber (such as AEM/HNBR) inner layers should be selected. For long service life, PTFE hydraulic hoses are recommended.
Mining machinery and equipment are characterized by their large size and heavy weight, and the system frequently experiences significant pressure shocks due to drastic changes in workload. The working environment is harsh, with continuous exposure to rocks, coal slag, and dust. Underground environments may also involve high temperatures and require explosion-proof and fire-resistant features. The equipment operates 24 hours a day, demanding extremely high reliability.
Underground equipment must use “fire-resistant hoses” (FR), which must have excellent wear resistance and impact resistance, and withstand high pressure and high pulse, ensuring safety.
Recommended models: EN856 4SP and 4SH, which are wear-resistant and high-pressure resistant, and should be used with necessary pipe clamps and protective sleeves. Install steel spring hose guard in areas prone to wear, and regularly inspect the condition of the hoses.
5. High-Pressure Cleaning Industry (High-pressure cleaning machines)
The main characteristic of the high-pressure cleaning industry is high pressure. Therefore, high-pressure washer hoses need to have excellent pressure resistance, wear resistance, tensile strength, and good flexibility. Professional high-pressure cleaning machine hoses can be used, which can withstand high pressure, are lightweight and flexible, and can be used with various cleaning hose connectors for quick connection to the cleaning machine.
Installation and Maintenance About Hydraulic Hose
Installation and maintenance of hydraulic hoses are critical to ensuring optimal system performance and safety. First, prepare the appropriate hydraulic hoses and fittings, ensure their appropriate length and cleanliness. If it is a disposable hydraulic fitting, you may need a crimping machine. If it is a reusable fitting, you only need a vise. Connect the hydraulic fittings and the hydraulic hose together.
Connect the hydraulic connector at the other end to the equipment of the hydraulic system and tighten it. And fix the hydraulic hose to avoid twisting or tension. There should be a certain range of movement when the pulse is generated. Precautions for installation are also necessary. Only by considering all aspects can the normal operation of the hydraulic pipe be guaranteed.
Timely Replacement of Hydraulic Hoses
The lifespan of hydraulic hoses is limited, and when they reach the end of their lifespan, they need to be replaced in time, otherwise it may cause more serious problems. Regular maintenance and timely replacement are key for ensuring the normal operation of the hydraulic system. It is recommended that the hydraulic hose be replaced every 2-5 years, and the specific time should depend on the actual application.
Sometimes in an emergency or when the damage is not serious, the hydraulic hose can be repaired. Find the damaged part of the hose and perform an emergency repair, or remove the damaged part and reconnect it with a connector. However, it should be noted that repair can only temporarily solve the problem. The most effective method is to replace the entire hose.
How Do I Know What Size Hydraulic Hose I Need?
Measure hydraulic hose are primarily based on actual application scenarios. Measurements of hose dimensions include the inside diameter, outside diameter and length of the hose. Use a vernier caliper to measure the inner and outer diameters of the hose, and use a tape measure for the length. Buying new hose according to the old hose can ensure matching. If you want to buy hydraulic hoses, but don’t know the size, you can contact us and we will tell you the specific measurement method, or you can tell us your hose application scenario and we can also provide you with the most suitable hose.
How to Customize Hydraulic Hose?
Strongflex is a professional hydraulic hose manufacturer that can accept customized hydraulic hoses of various styles. We can customize and produce hoses suitable for your application according to drawings or application scenarios. Please tell us your detailed needs and let us work together.
