28 December 2016
 Categories: , Blog

If your small construction company just recently acquired your first piece of heavy equipment that has hydraulic lines, then it is very important that you know how to properly maintain them. Since damaged hydraulic lines are a danger to the environment from leaking hydraulic fluid and can be a danger for the operator if the lines bust apart during use, regularly inspecting your machinery's hydraulic lines and fittings are vital steps for keeping everyone safe on your job site. To this end, here are some tips for working in a safe manner with machinery that contains hydraulic lines:

Always Ensure that You Use Matching Couplings and Fittings from the Same Manufacturer

Since the crimping tolerances are different on components made by different manufacturers, it is never safe to use couplers made by two different companies on the same hydraulic line. If you have a broken coupler or other hose fittings, then you need to replace both fittings so you know for sure that they will completely seal correctly together.

Always Install Replacement Hoses that are Rated for Use on Heavy Equipment

Since not all hydraulic hoses are created equal in their performance, it is very important that you select replacement hoses and fittings that are rated for use on heavy equipment. If you do not install the correct type of hose, it will prematurely fail and can lead to operator injuries. 

Use Clamps to Restrain the Excess Hydraulic Hose on Your Heavy Machinery

If the hydraulic lines on your new heavy equipment have any areas where they sag or whip around when the machinery is used, then you need to install clamps to hold the excess hose in place. You should also install abrasion sleeves over the hoses so that they do not get damaged from rubbing on the metal parts of your machine.

Never Over-Torque the Threaded Fittings Connecting Your Hydraulic Hoses Together

Finally, when you connect hydraulic hoses on your construction company's new heavy machinery together using coupler hose fittings, make sure that you do not over-torque them. If you place too much torque on the threads, then they will become stripped. Stripped threads that are placed under pressure from flowing hydraulic fluid can lead to coupler failings and dangerous situations for your machine operators. If you happen to accidentally over-torque the fitting on your hydraulic line, then you need to replace them with new fittings before operating your equipment.