When it comes to hydraulic systems, you may not understand how vital the choice between tubing and hoses is. However, it can have a huge impact. So, you need to think carefully about what to use, as well as additional services like tube swaging.

Hoses come with adaptability and flexibility. Tubing is more about durability and strength. Each has its distinct construction and applications that can influence maintenance and performance. As a result, understanding the nuances between the pair can make all the difference with reliability and efficiency. Let’s have a look at what you need to consider here.

Construction differences

With comparing hydraulic tubing and hoses, you’ll find substantial differences in construction. These affect application suitability and performance. Hoses tend to be made of thermoplastic or rubber materials. They are also reinforced with layers of steel or fibre to augment flexibility and strength. Such construction enables hoses to bend with ease and absorb vibrations. Therefore, they work for dynamic applications.

As for hydraulic tubing, it tends to be metal. Aluminium and steel are notable examples. You have a robust, rigid solution here. You can choose welded or seamless tube. As a result, it offers outstanding pressure resistance. That means you can use it in high-pressure settings. Tubing’s solid structure stops kinking too, which works for straight-line runs.

Manufacturing processes

Hoses are regularly produced in longer lengths and you can cut them to size. As for tubing, it tends to be available in specific diameters. Manufacturers usually also produce them in long lengths and cut to size.

The fittings you use with the two differ as well. Hoses have threaded or crimped fittings. Tubing normally needs welded or flared connections. The construction differences here lead to distinct advantages as well as restrictions for each solution. This will influence your choice based on certain needs. If your situation calls for tube swaging, talk to our team.

Applications

Understanding the right applications for both can impact the safety and efficiency of your systems. Hydraulic hoses work for dynamic applications where you need movement and flexibility. Think about using them in mobile machinery or construction equipment. Or, use them in an environment where components move more relative to each other. Their capacity to flex and bend makes them perfect for these instances.

Hydraulic tubing however succeeds in stationary applications. Here, you need pressure resistance and rigidity. You’d usually find tubing in fixed installations. Think industrial machinery and hydraulic power units. Here, the lines don’t need to move. Tubing’s robust construction enables it to handle high pressure without the danger of bursting. Thus, you can use it in demanding environments.

When picking between tubing and hoses, consider the specific needs of your hydraulic system. Factor in details like the need for movement, temperature, and pressure. By aligning your choice with application needs, you’ll increase the longevity and performance of your system.

Longevity and maintenance

Finally, keep in mind that sufficient maintenance is necessary to ensure the longevity of tubing and hoses in the systems. You need to do regular inspections. Look for signs of wear like bulges, abrasions, and cracks. Then, if you find anything wrong, replace the components to stop failures and leaks. Pay extra attention if you got tube swaging to alter the tubes; small issues here can cause leak risks.

Moreover, you need to monitor the temperature and operating pressure. Each hydraulic system comes with its own limits. Going over these can lower the lifespan of your tubes and hoses. Use the right clamps and fittings to prevent stressing connections. This can result in premature wear.

Something else you need to do is keep hydraulic fluids clean and at the right levels. Contaminated fluids are capable of causing internal damage. Performance will go down, therefore shortening the lifespan of tubes and hoses.

Lastly, you must preserve proper routing and support for the two. This is so you can stop unnecessary bending and kinks. Avoid sharp pinch points and bends as well since they can cause fatigue over time.

You can rely on our tube swaging services

At Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd, we provide solutions for countless clients. Our years in the industry have led to us becoming widely known for our leading services. We ensure quality results every time. Even more importantly, we can offer advice for various applications.

With the likes of tube swaging, there are all sorts of possibilities for your tubing. So, if there’s something we can help you with, please get in touch.