Mixing and matching hose fittings from several manufacturers is the norm rather than the exception for many industrial hose end-users. Possible reasons include aspects related to availability and cost. However, this approach often leaves contractors and end-users exposed to greater liability than they would have previously imagined. This article explains why industrial plant managers or owners should not mix and match hose fittings from several manufacturers. Instead, they should only settle for predesignated fittings by the hose manufacturer to guarantee an uncomplicated service.
Hose assemblies
You create a hose assembly when you attach fittings or couplings to the end sections of the hose. Standard fittings feature a stem as well as ferrule. While one end connects to the hose, the other is squeezed through of flanged, enabling connections to another hose or pipe. The ferrule is compacted mainly through crimping in order to firmly grip the hose. Hose assembly failures are mainly caused by using any couplings or fittings other than the ones specifically recommended by the hose manufacturer for application.
The aspect of suitability or compatibility
Not all manufacturers supply similar sizes or thread forms of hose fittings, in spite of the fact that two distinct fittings may appear at face value to be actually the same. Fittings come in different thread sizes and can be measured through a range of formats, including metric. If the size and thread form details of the fitting don't match that of the industrial hose, chances of premature hose failure are bound to increase. For example, don't attach a low pressure aluminum fitting to a 3,000 psi industrial hose because the hose and the fitting don't have the same pressure rating. If you do so, leaks and blow offs may occur especially at the hose/fitting interface leading to injuries and even death to the operator.
While attaching the fitting to the hose pipe, it's important to tighten it according to the torsion level stated by the supplier or manufacturer. That said, only a compatible fitting will tighten according to the torsion level labelled by the hose manufacturer. When it comes to hose fittings, more torque does not necessarily imply more tightness. Furthermore, a lot of torque may result in the damage of the fitting's thread, resulting in difficulty when unscrewing and possibly inhibiting its efficiency and life. Additionally, some industrial couplings tighten against a clamping ring, locking ring or a soft seal, therefore if the coupling is over-tightened, the seals or rings may become damaged or distorted causing premature failure.
