Fittings are a fundamental component of every hydraulic system, connecting tubes, pipes, and hoses to pumps, valves, actuators, and other features.
Hydraulic fittings come in many different styles, orientations, and attachment methods. Knowing the differences between connector types can help you select the best for your needs and applications.
The most common and popular connectors are O-ring, mated angle, and threaded. Other types include flare, adapter, and swivel.
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Better Fit
When using hydraulic hoses, it’s vital to use fittings that are compatible with the hose. If you don’t, it can lead to leaks and other issues that could be hazardous to people or property.
Fittings are vital to any hydraulic system and come in various styles, materials, and performance levels. Before choosing one, it’s critical to comprehend the many sorts and how they operate.
Choosing the wrong fitting can mean poor seal quality, hose pressure, and a greater risk of torquing. Selecting the correct fitting can save you time and money in the long run.
Hydraulic hose fittings can be made from different types of metal, including plastic, brass, and stainless steel. Each class has unique qualities and traits that make it appropriate for particular uses.
Reliability
Hydraulic systems require solid and reliable hydraulic fittings to connect hoses, tubes, and pipes. These components must handle high pressures, withstand corrosive fluid and resist damage from outside elements such as dirt, rain, and snow.
Material selection is essential for all hydraulic fittings because different materials have varying properties and performance capabilities. Metals such as aluminum, cast iron, and stainless steel are common due to their strength and corrosion resistance.
Similarly, based on design and construction, hydraulic fittings are commonly specified to specific pressure and temperature ratings. It allows engineers to choose fittings that operate safely and effectively in their applications.
Lower Cost
Whether you want to upgrade an existing hydraulic system or set up a new one, the lower cost of using hydraulic fittings makes them a great choice. Hydraulic fittings can be found in various styles, sizes, and materials to meet the specific needs of your application.
The material used for a fitting is essential to the overall function of a hydraulic hose and its ability to transport fluid safely and reliably. Metals like steel and cast iron are good choices because they offer high strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.
The material of a hydraulic fitting should also be compatible with the operating environment. It includes temperature, pressure, and the type of fluid flowing through the hose.
Versatility
Hydraulic systems require a variety of fittings to connect tubes, pipes, and hoses to pumps, valves, and other components. These fittings come in all shapes and sizes, using various sealing methods and thread forms.
All-metal hydraulic hose fittings use metal-to-metal contact to form a seal against pressurized fluid, while compressed-seal O-ring fittings seal through an O-ring that is compressed between the mating halves of the fitting.
In addition to basic hydraulic hose connection options, several additional features can be integrated into the design of a hydraulic fitting for specific applications. These include expansion joints and couplings that allow pipe segments to move in response to service load, shock, or heat cycles; flexible connections that do not damage the hose during movement; and connect-under-pressure fittings designed for installation or connection while the system is under pressure.
All of these features make hydraulic fittings a versatile component for many types of industrial applications. In addition, they can be made in a wide variety of materials to meet the needs of different applications.
