Imagine removing a brand-new hose from storage only to find it damaged beyond use. It's a frustrating situation that can lead to unexpected setbacks and financial losses. But why does this happen? You stored the hydraulic hose properly, away from the sun and wind, and it was in pristine condition when you put it away. So, what went wrong?
The truth is that improper storage of high-pressure hoses can cause various problems. Given their importance, it's crucial to understand how to store them correctly to preserve their integrity and performance.
In this post, we'll explore the connection between the estimated lifespan of unused hoses and the pivotal role of correct storage practices.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Storage
Proper storage might not be the most glamorous aspect of hose manufacturing or ownership, but it's undeniably vital. When hoses aren't stored correctly, they can deteriorate prematurely, leading to reduced performance and unexpected failures in the field. For industrial hose manufacturers, this can mean a potential hit to reputation and financial losses. For customers, it translates to a frustrating experience of replacing hoses earlier than expected.
Suitable Storage Solutions
Selecting the right storage solution is crucial. The most common options include hose racks, reels, and shelving systems. Each has its advantages.
● Hose racks allow easy visibility and accessibility, making them suitable for frequent use.
● Reels offer a convenient way to store and dispense hoses while protecting them from kinking and tangling.
● Shelving systems are versatile and can accommodate various hose lengths and types. Manufacturers should choose the solution that suits their space and the types of hoses they produce.
Ideal Storage Conditions
To start, let's talk about the ideal storage conditions. You should keep industrial hoses in a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled environment.
#1 Temperature and Humidity
Hydraulic hoses, pneumatic hoses, chemical hoses, food-grade hoses, and specialized hoses all have specific requirements. Temperature extremes can cause hoses to become brittle or degrade over time.
For hydraulic hoses, a suitable temperature is around 15°C, with an acceptable range of 0°C to 38°C. The stored temperatures shouldn't exceed 50°C or fall below -30°C. Any rupture of the outer shell will increase with temperature fluctuations.
Relative humidity should not exceed 70% for most hose types.
#2 Ozone and Light
Ozone is a critical aging factor for hoses. So, avoid ozone generators such as mercury lamps, high-voltage electrical devices, or other equipment that can generate sparks or discharges.
Direct light, whether natural or artificial, is a primary source of aging. Avoid placing hoses under direct sunlight or strong artificial light. If windows are present, cover them with protective film or use opaque packaging.
#3 Chemicals and Electric Fields
Keep hoses away from corrosive products or volatile gases generated by these products, such as fuel, petroleum, grease, acids, disinfectants, and more.
Avoid equipment that generates electric and magnetic fields, such as high-voltage cables and high-frequency generators.
#4 Proper Placement
Avoid stacking heavy objects on the hose body. If stacking is necessary, adhere to the manufacturer's specified stacking height limit and frequently "restack" steel wire hoses during storage.
Ensure that both ends of the hose are sealed to prevent debris from entering. Non-rolled short tubes can be hung on shelves but should avoid contact with sharp objects or ground facilities.
#5Kinking and Twisting
Kinks and twists are common culprits behind hose damage during storage. To prevent these issues, coil hoses properly without bending them at sharp angles. Using hose reels can help keep hoses neatly wound, reducing the risk of kinking and twisting.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance During Storage
Once you store your hoses, conduct routine inspections. This helps identify any deterioration, damage, or potential issues early on.
If the storage period exceeds recommendations, the hydraulic fittings' sealing rings may have aged and require replacement. Neglecting this could result in oil leakage after installation.
Conclusion
By diligently following the storage ideas discussed above, you can significantly extend the life of your industrial hoses, preventing the need for frequent replacements and reducing operational costs.
However, proper storage is just one part of the equation. The quality of your industrial hoses is equally critical. To achieve the perfect balance of longevity and performance, you need top-quality products that can withstand the demands of your specific applications.
At PassionHose, we understand the importance of both proper storage and superior product quality. We offer a range of top-quality industrial hoses and fittings designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries.
Don't compromise on the performance and durability of your industrial hoses. Contact us at +86-571-81023091 today.