hydraulic pipe repair in GU3 (119)

Fixing a hydraulic pipe is a specialist job. We recommend that you always use a skilled professional to complete this work.

When fixing a hydraulic pipe, a repair specialist will usually use the following steps:

1. Identify the correct hose. Hoses have various pressure tolerance ratings, and you will need the right hose for the desired usage

2. Remove the damaged area. Carefully cut out the damaged section of hose with a sharp knife or scissors. Ensure that the area is completely free of dust and debris

3. Install an adapter to connect the two ends of the pipe. The adapter should be tightly fitted but not over-tightened to prevent damage

4. Confirm the correct pipe length. Measure the length of the pipe and ensure that it is not too long or too short. Also look for angled sections and ensure correct positioning

5. Ensure a proper seal. Use a crimping tool to crimp the ends of the hose onto the fittings. Seals should be secure and drip free but never too tight

6. Check for leaks. Once you have installed the new hose, turn on the hydraulic system. First circulate fluid at low pressure to check for leaks. Using carboard or paper is a good way to spot leaks. You may also want to repeat this process after a few minutes to ensure that the system is completely watertight

The average lifespan of a well-maintained hydraulic pipe is five years.

Poor quality or badly maintained hydraulic pipes may only last one or two years. Some heavy-duty hydraulic pipes can last up to ten years.

There are various reasons why a hydraulic pipe can burst. Some of the most common reasons are:

• The system pressure is too high

• The hydraulic oil temperature is too high

• The pipe was poorly fitted

• The pipe has become eroded because of abrasion

• The wrong fluid is being used

• The pipe is bent close to the fitting

If a hydraulic pipe bursts, the problem should be fixed immediately to prevent serious damage and even danger to life.

As mentioned above, hydraulic pipes have an average lifespan of five years.

To ensure that your hydraulic pipes are in excellent working order, regular inspections and maintenance should be carried out.

This will enable you to know when the pipes need repairing or replacing.

Yes. A hose patch clamp can be used to temporarily fix a hydraulic hose. Hose patch clamps should only be used as a temporary solution and the damaged section of hose should be replaced as soon as possible.

Hose patch clamps are placed over the hole in the hose, with the hole at the centre of the clamp. The clamps are then tightened to create a temporary watertight seal.

Hose patch clamps should only be used for relatively small holes and where the rest of the hose is in good condition.

Most hose patch clamps should only be used in hydraulic systems with a water pressure of under 2000 psi.

If a hydraulic fitting is leaking, it may have worked loose. The first thing to do is to turn off the system and make sure all fittings are sufficiently tightened.

If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may have to replace the fitting. Modern hydraulic fitting such as pipe thread connectors feature an elastomeric seal. This will help to prevent the possibility of future leakage.