HOSES USED ON BUCKET TRUCKS

Hoses used on bucket trucks must be capable of handling frequent movement and abrasion, the bucket is constantly moving up and down, causing the hoses to abrade against the trucks boom arms. This persistent friction can wear through a hose’s cover and lead to failure. Bucket truck hoses also tend to run at high pressure, so your hose will need to be rated to the appropriate PSI. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Pros at TCH for the proper hose for your job!

WHAT HOSE IS USED FOR BUCKET TRUCKS?

As mentioned with pressure ratings, hydraulic hose is always used on bucket truck lifts. A rubber hose would get the job done when it comes to pressure, but there are some other considerations that steer us away from using a standard, rubber hydraulic hose.

Because the lifts are intended for lifting a worker, for safety factors you always want to use a non-conductive hose. This will, as its name states, prevent the hose from conducting electricity to the worker in the boom. As the boom raises and lowers, it is constantly rubbing against the boom arms, causing damage to the cover over time; utilizing a thermoplastic hose–with its smooth cover–will help prevent this abrasion damage.

Take a look at Danfoss’ Synflex line to see exactly what we’re talking about. You can also learn how to select the right hydraulic hose in our blog post.

WHAT DOES BUCKET TRUCK MEAN?

In the simplest of terms, a bucket truck is a truck that is equipped with an extendable arm used for raising and lowering a worker.

WHAT CAN A BUCKET TRUCK BE USED FOR?

These trucks are used in a variety of different applications:

• Electric Work/Telephone Lines
• Sign Maintenance
• Construction
• Landscaping
• Fire/Rescue
• Painting
• Window Washing

WHAT KIND OF HYDRAULIC FLUID GOES IN A BUCKET TRUCK?

At TCH Industries, we stock two types of hydraulic oil: ISO32 and ISO46.

ISO32

• Ideal for use in high-powered machine tools. For use in cooler weather; like an excavator during Fall, Winter, early, Spring.
• Low Viscosity Index: 32°F to °95F
• Ambient Temperature Range: -10°F to 85°F
• Viscosity @ 104°F is 30 mm2/s
• Viscosity @ 212°F is 5.3 mm2/s
• Viscosity Index: 100
• Flash Point COC: 401°F
• Pour Point: -22°F
• Density @ 59°F: 875 kg/m3

ISO42

• Normally required for industrial plants working under high-pressure etc. For use in warmer weather or in a plant with higher temperatures; like in an excavator during the Summer or in a press pump in a plant.
• Medium Viscosity Index: 95°F to 176°F
• Ambient Temperature Range: 10°F to 110°F
• Viscosity @ 104°F is 45 mm2/s
• Viscosity @ 212°F is 6.8 mm2/s
• Flash Point COC: 414°F
• Pour Point: -17­°F
• Density @ 59°F: 880 kg/m3

WHAT IS THE BUCKET ON A BUCKET TRUCK CALLED?

Bucket trucks, as their name states, are known for their bucket lift, which is also referred to as a boom. These vehicles are highly sought after in many industries for their ease of use and ability to extend to heights that would otherwise be inaccessible.

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SUCTION AND DISCHARGE HOSE

Suction and discharge hoses are commonly used for air and water transfers, proving to be a safe and effective method at transferring these materials. We also see petroleum, hydraulic, hot tar, and food and beverage applications utilize suction and discharge hoses. Whatever the job, the pros at TCH Industries will assist you in speccing in the right hose every time. Some common applications for suction and discharge include:

• Oilfield Petroleum
• Chemical Suction
• General Service
• Water Suction
• Oil & Fuel Transfer
• Multipurpose Suction & Discharge
• Beverage & Food Transfer
• Oilfield Hot Tar
• Coolant Transfer
• Material Handling

WHAT IS SUCTION AND DELIVERY HOSE?

Suction and delivery hose tend to be lower pressure applications that transfer media from one location to another. Depending on your suction and delivery application, you may need to only consider the necessity of a helical wire. This type of reinforcement will prevent the hose from collapsing in on itself in suction line applications. Some hoses, for example, in chemical applications, will utilize a dual wire helix for full suction and discharge. Even if a hose meets the proper pressure and chemical compatibility for the job, certain applications, such as food and beverage transfer will require hoses that have been FDA certified. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUCTION AND DISCHARGE HOSE?

The main difference between suction and discharge hoses generally comes down to the reinforcement. As mentioned before, suction hoses are reinforced with single or dual-helical wires to prevent the hose from collapsing under pressure. Corrugated suction hoses provide a better bend radius and ease of use, as well as allow fluid to flow beneath the hose in applications such as breweries. Corrugation also provides better abrasion resistance, as only certain parts of the hose’s cover are touching the exterior surface. Discharge hoses, often layflat hoses, do not require the same reinforcement because there is no negative pressure.

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PNEUMATIC HOSE AND TUBING

What is pneumatic hose and tubing? Well, pneumatic applications are operated by air or gas under pressure. Industrial pneumatic applications are commonly powered by compressed air safety or gasses. Pneumatics can offer a simplicity in design and control, reliability, and safety over hydraulic systems. Flexible tubing and hose can provide a safe and effective means of systems operation.

WHAT IS PNEUMATIC TUBING MADE OF?

Pneumatic tubing is offered in an array of materials, the most common being rubber and plastic. Here are some of the typical tubing materials and their applications:

• Rubber: Air and water
• Plastic: Air and Water

• Aluminum: Corrosion resistance for harsh chemicals

• Brass: Plumbing applications and corrosive environments

• Stainless Steel: Ask Chris

• Steel: Ask Chris

• Copper: Corrosion resistance and heat transfer qualities

• Titanium: Corrosion resistance and lightweight properties

• Nickel: Highest temperature rating of all non-stainless steel tubing

WHAT IS THE MAIN ADVANTAGE OF USING PLASTIC TUBING IN A PNEUMATIC AIR SUPPLY SYSTEM?

Depending on the type of tubing used, such as nylon and polyethylene, some of the main advantages are price, size, weight, and ease of installation. A standard pneumatic air system won’t typically run over 150 psi, so working pressure doesn’t come into play when deciding between hose and tubing. In applications where saving space is of the essence, tubing can be a great option to run a pneumatic in tight spots, and generally weighs less than hose.

WHAT IS PNEUMATIC HOSE MADE OF?

As with pneumatic tubing, pneumatic hoses are offered with a wide range of cover and tube materials. Standard air hoses can even be offered with push to connect fittings (such as Parker’s Push-Lok), which act similarly to a Chinese finger trap. The fittings are inserted with no crimp, and the more force that is applied outwardly, the more the barbs dig into the inside of the hose. Not all hoses can be used with these fittings, so be sure to confirm Identify Air Hose Fittings with push to connect fittings. Coiled air hose assemblies are also offered in applications where kink resistant hoses may be more necessary.

Some common materials offered are:

HOSE COVER MATERIAL

• EPDM: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer

• Neoprene

• Nitrile

• Nylon

• PVC

• Rubber

• SBR: Styrene Butadiene Rubber

• Synthetic Rubber

HOSE TUBE MATERIAL

• EPDM: Ethylene Propylene Monomer

• Nitrile

• Nylon

• Polyurethane

• PVC

• Rubber

• Synthetic Rubber

CAN PNEUMATIC TUBING BE USED FOR WATER?

Pneumatic tubing is generally suitable for air, water, hydraulic, chemical, and refrigeration lines. As with any application, its immensely important to confirm the tubing or hose’s chemical inertness before use. Pneumatic systems run at lower pressures, typically no more than 150 psi. Even though some pneumatic tubing can have a good compatibility for hydraulic fluids, many hydraulic systems run at 3,000 psi and higher.

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HYDRAULIC HOSE REPAIR NEAR ME

At TCH Industries, our retail store allows a unique opportunity for our customers to bring in their old/damaged hoses and have a replacement created while they wait. Our manufacturing facility is capable of crimping and fabricating any custom hose assembly from 3/16” to 12”. With multiple high-production crimpers, we perform over fifty thousand crimps per week.

HOW DO YOU REPAIR A HYDRAULIC HOSE?

Sometimes, a hydraulic hose is beyond repair, but other times there are a few simple solutions to repair an assembly that has been damaged to a point where it is currently inoperable.

REPLACING THE CRIMP

One option is to replace hose fittings, but there are two caveats. First of all, it shortens the overall length of the hose, so make sure you can afford to lose the length. Secondly, it’s necessary to have the proper crimp spec. The crimp fitting is designed to couple with the same manufacturer’s hose in order to meet SAE requirements(link to https://www.sae.org/standards/) that guarantee the fit between the hose and end so the assembly can withstand the many pressure cycles required.

MENDING A BROKEN HOSE

When a hose is damaged, often times by being run over with heavy machinery, falling debris, or other types of impact, their are two ways to mend a high-pressure hydraulic hose. The first is by placing a physical mender inside the hose and crimping it on both ends. Alternatively, you can put two threaded pieces on either side of the splice with a coupler in the middle.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY HOSE IS DAMAGED?

No … that hole in the cover of your hose isn’t “fine.”

TYPES OF DAMAGE

The types of damage to hose and hose assemblies fall into four basic categories:

• Damage immediately behind the hose end: Anywhere you have a crimp or bandaged connection naturally undergoes more stress when there’s any movement on the hose.

• Local external damage: Such as a scratch, dent, or impact damage.

• Overall external wear due to dragging: For example, in cleaning applications where the hose is regularly moved around and dragged on the ground or concrete. The other cause of external abrasion is simply the constant vibration of the hose in high-pressure applications. The vibrations from the pump cause it to rub on the ground and wear the outer coating. There’s not much that can be done to prevent this kind of damage–it’s the nature of this type of application.

• Long-term use fatigue: When your hose fails because it’s gotten old with use, you know you’ve gotten the maximum lifetime out of the hose.

WHEN SHOULD A HYDRAULIC HOSE BE REPLACED?

The obvious signs to look for on a hose assembly are holes and blown ends. If you catch the problem early enough, preventative maintenance steps can be taken with a cover repair. If you immediately care for any scratch on the cover of a hydraulic or high-pressure hose, you can protect the reinforcement. 

If scratches or dents are ignored, they can allow the steel reinforcement to corrode, which leads to either full replacement, splicing, or hydraulic hose repair. Keep an eye out for abrasion and exposed wires. If you see either and are trying to hold off on a full replacement, you can add plastic spiral guard or abrasive sleeving. All hoses have a protective cover that ensures the wire doesn’t get damaged internally but adding an abrasion cover (whether cloth or plastic) will only protect it further.

WHAT HAPPENS IF A HYDRAULIC HOSE FAILS?

It goes without saying that safety is the primary concern of any high pressure hydraulic and industrial hose assembly. Some applications are obviously dangerous: high pressures, hazardous chemical transfer, hydraulics on a lift supporting a worker. A high-pressure line can whip if an end blows off and can hit you pretty hard, not to mention the force with which the steel end is sent flying. At the beginning of a hose service life, it needs to be specced right and built properly. Once in use, it needs to be examined regularly and taken out of service once there is known damage or after its known service life has expired.

In conclusion, most hoses we see need replaced rather than repaired because workplace safety is the primary concern. When it comes to hose service life and the need to replace them, just remember: if you see an issue, replace the hose. Don’t wait for the worst case scenario to come about.

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HOSE, PIPE, & TUBING …

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Hose, pipe, and tubing and common methods of transferring fluids through a system, or even from one location to another. There are common applications for each, such as higher pressures for hose, the flexibility of tubing, or the ability to bury or conceal pipe. There’s not always a clear and concise answer on when and where to use each. We will further explain how you can decide which best suits your application. 

WHAT IS HOSE USED FOR?

Hoses are typically categorized by hydraulic or industrial applications. A good way to differentiate between the two is that hydraulic hoses are used in a high pressure closed application. Industrial hoses are generally used to convey media in an open application.

A simplified explanation of a closed application is where media is looped from a reservoir, to a pump, then to a cylinder, then the media is conveyed back to the original reservoir. An open application is where media is conveyed from a tank or reservoir to a pump, then to another tank, reservoir, or into the open air. 

HYDRAULIC

Hydraulic hoses are generally recommended for applications, such as excavators, lifts, and log splitters, or are used as vibration dampeners in highly vibration prone applications. Hydraulic hoses commonly have a rubber cover with steel wire reinforcement and nitrile or SBR tubing.

INDUSTRIAL

Industrial hoses, on the other hand, tend to have lower pressure ratings. That’s not to say industrial hoses don’t sometimes have higher pressure ratings. Applications such as air and water hoses for suction and discharge operations and expandable garden hoses don’t require the pressure ratings that hydraulic systems do.

METAL

High temperatures, high pressures, and harsh chemicals are conditions to consider when deciding between hose, pipe, and tubing. Metal hose can be a highly effective option. Corrugated metal hose can be manufactured using various alloys to withstand highly corrosive chemical applications. Extreme temperatures is another common condition in which metal hose is used.

On one hand, we have very hot applications up to 1300°F. On this end of the spectrum, we have two considerations: outside environmental conditions, such as an assembly near a furnace in a steel mill; or, internal process conditions, like combustion gases or hot air for test facilities.

On the other hand, you may need to consider using metal hose for very cold (cryogenic) temperatures, -325°F and lower. The colder the temperature, the better they get. When thinking about your end connections, remember that carbon steel has an effective temperature range of 0-800°F; outside this range, its properties diminish quickly.

THERMOPLASTIC

Commonly used in medium- to high-pressure applications, thermoplastic hoses fair well with mobile and industrial machinery. Applications such as boom lifts, that are always moving, can take advantage of thermoplastic hose’s smooth exterior to avoid abrasion and degradation from constant friction. Other applications for flexible hoses include gas assemblies in which the hose is perforated, car haulers because of their non marking attributes, forklifts as thermoplastic retains its shape when stretching and contorting, and as ambient temperature nitrogen assemblies.

WHAT IS TUBING USED FOR?

Tubing has multiple functions across various industries, such as pneumatic systems, farming applications, fluid transfer, medical and sanitary applications, automotive, and medical applications. Plastic tubing offers unique cost, strength, and corrosion resistance.

WHAT IS PIPE USED FOR?

When it comes to fluid transfer, sometimes metal piping, either carbon or stainless steel, is preferred. Whether for cost, cosmetic, or stability reasoning, such as running pipe through rafters in structural applications without having to worry about dangling hoses, there are various reasons to consider metal pipe for your application.

HOW IS HOSE MANUFACTURED?

RUBBER HOSE

Unlike tubes and pipes, rubber hose consists of three basic elements: inner tube, reinforcement, and the outer cover. The inner tube maintains a flexibility while also being able to withstand the material it carries. For example, Nitrile has excellent compatibility with oils and standard hydraulic fluids. The reinforcement surrounds the inner tube and gives the hose strength, as well as the ability to hold pressure. 

Types of Reinforcement

• Wire braid: offers a wide pressure and flexibility range along with properties tailored to specific applications.
• Wire spiral: used in high-pressure applications where service life is critical, or in a high impulse applications.
• Textile reinforcement: ideal for applications requiring lower pressure ratings and high flexibility, such as air hose applications or low pressure water applications.

Finally, we have the outer layer or cover, which protects the reinforcement from abrasion, corrosion, chemicals and ozone. The outer layer is often weather-, oil-, or abrasion-resistant depending on how the manufacturer designed the hose for specific environments.

METAL HOSE

Metal hose is typically manufactured in one of two ways:

HYDROFORMING

The manufacturing process of Hydroforming grabs a section of tube, expands it without torsion using high pressure water, while simultaneously feeding the tube in axially from both directions.

CRIMPFORMING

The crimpforming method grabs a section of tube, compresses it without torsion using a “shuttercrimp”, while simultaneously feeding the tube in axially from both directions.

To learn more about these methods, check out the full process from our friends at Hose Master: https://www.hosemaster.com/corrugated-metal-hose/

HOW IS TUBING MANUFACTURED?

The two methods of manufacturing plastic tubing are extrusions and pultrusion. The difference between the two is how the molten plastic moves through the die. Extrusion pushes the plastic through the die, whereas pultrusion pulls the material through.

HOW IS PIPE MANUFACTURED?

Pipe is manufactured using an extrusion process, in which the tube is drawn from a solid stainless steel billet and extruded into the hollow form you see.

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HOW TO IDENTIFY HYDRAULIC FITTINGS

Hydraulic systems are dependent on fluid ports, connectors, and threaded adapters to create a proper seal. Being positive that you have identified the proper hose fittings and adapters for your application is crucial to having a safe and effective system.

Choosing the wrong type of connection can impair the ability to seal, leading to system damage, leakage, and device failure. Not only can this damage equipment, but it can also be harmful to the operator.

Maintenance technicians and engineers can avoid these issues by using the fast, proven method of identifying the proper hydraulic fittings presented in this blog.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HYDRAULIC FITTINGS?

• American Connections
• NPT: National Pipe Taper is a general-purpose tapered pipe thread.
• NPTF: National Pipe Taper Fuel is a dryseal tapered pipe thread.
• NPSM: National Pipe Straight Mechanical is a straight-thread.
• SAE O-ring boss: Multipurpose thread for medium- and high-pressure hydraulic applications, where the O-ring is seated at the base of the threads.
• O-ring face seal: Straight thread fittings with a machine groove in the face of the fitting to accept and O-ring.
• JIC: Flared fitting machined with a 37° flare seating surface.
• Metric
• Metric compression:
• Metric O-ring boss
• Metric taper
• British
• BSPP: British Standard Parallel Pipe is a parallel thread fitting with a bonded seal O-ring.

BSPT: British Standard Pipe Taper is similar to NPT; however, the thread angle from root to crest is 55° instead of 60°

• Japanese
• JIS: Japanese Industrial Standard is a tapered pipe thread that is identical to and interchangeable with BSPT connections. The Japanese male thread does not have a 30° flare and will not mate with the BSPP female connection.

HOW DO I INDENTIFY HYDRAULIC FITTINGS?

Misidentifying threads can lead to wasted time and dangerous, improper connections. The first question you should ask yourself when identifying a connection is simple: What is the sealing mechanism? 

• Is it a cone-shaped seal? – JIC, SAE 45, NPSM, BSPP, JIS, Metric Compression, Komatsu, Metric Ball Seat.
• Is there an O-ring? – O-ring face seal, SAE O-ring Boss, Code 61 & Code 62 4-Bolt Flange, Metric O-ring Boss, BSPP.
• Is the thread tapered? – NPT, BSPT, or Metric Taper

WHAT DO THE NUMBERS ON HYDRAULIC FITTINGS MEAN?

Some fittings will be stamped with a number. We refer to these as a dash size, which indicates the connection size. Keep in mind these numbers are all relative to 1/16”. For example, a -8 fitting is 8/16, or 1/2″.

We Are Hosers.

Our focus and obsession is the distribution and fabrication of hose for industry and hose related products. Founded nearly 40 years ago, we are proudly owned and operated by the same family. Our manufacturing partners are some of the biggest and best names: Eaton, Parker, Dixon Valve, Hose Master, Brennan, Hannay Reels, and many others.

In short, we are a customer-centric hose company filled with happy professionals who can help you meet all your hose related needs.

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COMPRESSED AIR SAFETY

Compressed air and air hoses, when handled improperly, can be hazardous. Debris can become airborne. This is a common safety issue that you can take the right steps to avoid. We’ll discuss some common compressed air safety tips, but if you’re ever in doubt, contact the Pros at TCH Industries for assistance.

WHAT ARE THE SAFETY CONCERNS WHEN WORKING WITH COMPRESSED AIR?

Whatever you do, please don’t clean off your clothes–or yourself–using compressed air. We know it can be difficult to kick old habits but using an air compressor to remove debris from yourself or your clothes can be hazardous. Avoiding simple actions like these will keep you safe from air jet, dirt, and metal debris.

 Compressed air can come out of a hose extremely fast. Be aware of the high pressures you’re using and ensure you’re taking care to only apply pressure to the proper application. But it’s not just debris being dislodged; imagine all the shavings and metal chips lying over your workbench that can end up in your eyes or skin. Refrain from using compressed air to clean these shavings off of workspaces and machinery.

 On top of particles, compressed air itself can be dangerous. If compressed air enters through the bloodstream, it can cause an air bubble, which are known as air embolisms—trust us, you do not want to look up pictures, but if you did, you might reconsider taking compressed air safety a bit more seriously.

 Hose halters (or whip sock restraints) can help you safely maintain a handle on your hoses that are operating at higher pressures. In an event of hose failure, pressurized hoses can whip about with dangerous force and using these whip restraints will assist in keeping your workspace safe.

WHAT ARE THE 7 PNEUMATIC SAFETY RULES?

1. Never direct airflow at yourself or another person.
2. Never clean clothing or hair with your compressed air. As mentioned above, debris can be shot at high speeds, and using air for only the intended application will keep you and your team safe.
3. Always know your pressure ratings and limits. If you ever find yourself in doubt with pressure requirements and ratings, contact the Pros at TCH Industries. 
4. Check to make sure your equipment is not damaged, such as damaged hoses and pressure gauges. 
5. Always wear proper protective equipment, including but not limited to safety glasses, hearing protection, and face masks.
6. Always wear proper protective clothing, as normal work clothing will not protect against pressurized air.
7. Never use a compressed air system to remove dust and debris from workspaces or equipment. If air for cleaning purposes is absolutely necessary, do not use compressed air for cleaning set above 30 psi.

WHAT KIND OF PPE IS REQUIRED WHEN WORKING WITH COMPRESSED AIR?

You don’t ever want to wish you had your personal protective equipment (PPE) after it’s too late. When dealing with equipment or machinery where any type of injury is more likely, including the use of compressed air, the following safety precautions are recommended:

• Head protection: 
• Protects from objects falling or flying overhead.
• Hearing protection:
• Protects from tools and machinery that may damage the ears.
• Foot protection:
• Protects against falling or rolling objects, sharp and heavy objects, slippery or uneven surfaces, hot surfaces, and electrical hazards.
• Eye protection:
• Protects against blowing dust or particles, metal shavings, acids and liquids, and welding light.
• High-visibility vest:
• Protects against vehicles and distracted drivers.
• Hand protection:
• Sharp or hot objects, highly pressurized air, chemicals, and electrical hazards.

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