how to make high pressure hydraulic hoses

How to Make High Pressure Hydraulic Hoses

Introduction:

High-pressure hydraulic hoses are essential components in various industrial applications. They are carefully designed to withstand enormous pressure and transfer fluid efficiently. While purchasing hydraulic hoses from suppliers is convenient, understanding the manufacturing process can provide valuable insights. This article will guide you through the intricate process of making high pressure hydraulic hoses, from selecting the right materials to assembly and quality control.

I. Material Selection:

Choosing the appropriate materials is the first step in manufacturing high pressure hydraulic hoses. The core tube, reinforcement layer, and cover material all play crucial roles in ensuring the hose's durability and performance. The core tube is usually made of synthetic rubber or thermoplastics, which should have exceptional flexibility and resistance to the intended fluid. Reinforcement layers consist of either textile or wire braids or spirals, reinforcing the hose's strength and enabling it to handle high pressure. Finally, the cover material should protect the hose from external damage, such as abrasion, chemicals, or weather conditions.

II. Inner Tube Extrusion:

The inner tube, or core, is responsible for conveying the fluid. To manufacture it, the selected rubber compound or thermoplastic is extruded into a continuous tube with a specific inside diameter (ID). Extrusion machines squeeze the raw material through a die, giving it a consistent shape and inner diameter. The extruded tube is usually cooled and sent for further processing or moved directly to the next stage of hose assembly.

III. Reinforcement Layer Application:

The reinforcement layer provides the hose with its strength to withstand high pressure. Depending on the reinforcement type selected, it is applied using various techniques. For textile braided hoses, the extruded inner tube is passed through a braiding machine. The machine interlaces yarns under high tension around the tube, creating a strong layer. On the other hand, wire braiding or spiraling is done by a separate machine simultaneously as the inner tube is extruded. The wire reinforcement is helically wrapped around the tube, ensuring uniform coverage and robustness.

IV. Cover Application:

Once the inner tube and reinforcement layers are complete, the hose requires a protective cover. The cover material, selected for its ability to withstand the environmental conditions the hose will encounter, is extruded over the reinforcement layer. Extrusion for the cover, similar to the inner tube, involves forcing the material through a die, resulting in a continuous layer with the desired outer diameter (OD). The cover must adhere tightly to the reinforcement layer and provide resistance to abrasion, weather, chemicals, and UV radiation.

V. Hose Assembly:

After completing the individual components, it is time for hose assembly. This process involves the precise alignment and connection of the core tube, reinforcement layer, and cover. Depending on the complexity and intended use of the hose, additional components such as fittings, connectors, or couplings may be incorporated during assembly. These components serve to facilitate attachment to hydraulic systems or allow different hoses to be connected to one another.

VI. Quality Control:

Quality control measures are paramount in ensuring the reliability and performance of high pressure hydraulic hoses. Random samples are taken from batches and subjected to rigorous testing to meet industry standards and specifications. Common tests conducted include burst pressure, impulse resistance, fluid compatibility, and overall durability. Defective hoses are rejected, and adjustments are made to the manufacturing process to prevent similar issues from recurring.

Conclusion:

Manufacturing high pressure hydraulic hoses requires a detailed understanding of material properties, precise extrusion techniques, and thorough quality control procedures. Each step, from material selection to assembly, contributes to the performance, durability, and safety of the final product. By comprehending the intricate process behind making these hoses, industrial professionals can better appreciate the effort and expertise involved in delivering high-quality hydraulic components.