Main manifestations of hose wear and aging

 

In modern industry and daily life, hoses have become one of the indispensable tools. Whether used for liquid transportation, gas delivery, or in complex applications in industrial equipment, the reliability and durability of hoses directly affect the stability and safety of the system. However, due to the natural material properties, hoses may wear and age after long-term use. This article will explore the causes, effects, and comprehensive inspection methods of hose wear and aging to help users detect and prevent potential safety hazards.

 

Analysis of the causes of hose wear and aging

 

1. Influence of environmental factors

 

Hoses are mainly made of elastic polymers, which are prone to change when exposed to certain environmental conditions. In outdoor applications, hoses are often faced with environmental tests such as ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes, and humidity. Ultraviolet rays can cause plastic and rubber molecular chains to break, thereby accelerating aging. Extreme temperatures can cause hoses to harden or become brittle, making them more prone to rupture. At the same time, high humidity increases moisture absorption on the surface of the hose, and long-term water contact accelerates the degradation of the rubber.

 

2. Effect of mechanical stress

 

During use, hoses are subjected to the pressure of internal fluids and the friction and extrusion of the external environment. These mechanical stresses can cause fatigue of the hose material, and over time, the structural integrity of the material may be gradually weakened, resulting in increased surface wear.

 

3. Effect of chemical factors

 

The type of chemical substances that the hose comes into contact with has a great impact on its performance. Certain liquids such as acids, bases and solvents may react with the hose material, causing the material to decompose and deteriorate. In addition, the high-speed flow of internal fluids may also cause physical and chemical wear, thereby accelerating the aging process.

 

Main manifestations of hose wear and aging

 

During the wear and aging process, hoses usually show some visible or perceptible characteristics. These manifestations include:

 

- Surface cracking: Small cracks appear on the rubber surface, especially in areas that are frequently stressed.

 

- Hardening or softening: The material becomes harder or softer as it ages, lacks its original elasticity and flexibility, and is prone to breakage.

 

- Color change: The surface color of the hose may turn brown or white under long-term light or chemical action, which is a sign of material degradation.

 

- Leakage or seepage: Thinning or cracking of the wall due to wear may cause fluid leakage.

 

Methods for comprehensive inspection of hose wear and aging

 

To ensure the good performance of the hose, regular inspection is indispensable. Here are some recommended methods:

 

1. Visual inspection

 

Regularly check the surface of the hose for visible cracks, wear and discoloration. Use a magnifying glass to improve the accuracy of the inspection, and pay attention to the changes in the state of the connection parts and bends.

 

2. Tactile test

 

Gently squeeze the hose with your hands to feel its hardness and elasticity to determine whether it meets the normal state. Pay attention to the uniformity of the changes at the ends and the middle of the hose to detect uneven aging.

 

3. Pressure test

 

Pressure testing can better simulate the performance of the hose in the actual operating environment. By applying pressure at the upper limit of the normal range under experimental conditions, potential leaks and other weaknesses can be detected.

 

4. Chemical Analysis

 

Perform regular material chemical composition analysis on hoses exposed to chemicals to confirm that their chemical structure has not been corroded and to ensure that their performance meets specifications.

 

5. Acoustic Testing

 

Use specialized acoustic equipment or a professional stethoscope to detect noise changes in the hose during operation. Abnormal sounds may indicate problems with internal fluid instability or increased friction.

 

Methods to slow down hose wear and aging

 

1. Material selection

 

Choosing the right material is the key to preventing wear and aging. Confirm that the hose material can resist ultraviolet light, temperature and chemical corrosion in a specific application environment. Select special material hoses that are oil-resistant, high-temperature resistant or wear-resistant according to the actual use scenario requirements.

 

2. Regular maintenance

 

Develop a detailed maintenance plan, including routine inspections, cleaning and replacement. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations in a timely manner to ensure that the hose is in optimal use.

 

3. Temperature control

 

When operating in a high-temperature working environment, pay attention to the implementation of cooling measures to prevent premature aging and failure of the hose due to overheating. For hoses used in low temperature environments, ensure that they are properly insulated to prevent damage due to temperature fluctuations.

 

4. Proper installation and use

 

Ensure that the hose is installed without excessive stretching or twisting, and use appropriate connections and fixing brackets to avoid unnecessary dynamic stress. Avoid excessive bending and frequent folding, which is the key to maintaining durability.

 

Conclusion

 

The wear and aging of hoses is a complex process involving multiple influencing factors. By understanding its causes and manifestations, users can better formulate preventive and maintenance measures to ensure the safety and long-term application of hoses. Regular inspections and proper use provide a solid guarantee for extending the life of hoses. Through communication and cooperation with professional suppliers and engineering teams, every user can create conditions for the continuous and stable operation of their systems.