1.1.4 Mechanical limitations
Minimum bending radius in service. Limitations in terms of traction, torsion, flexion,
vibration or compression. Risk of impact, abrasion, corrosion. Work position: on the
floor, suspended or submerged.
1.1.5 Connection used or expected to be used
Connection: type, dimension and class of thread. Hose: Outer and inner diameter.
Adjustment length.
1.1.6 Particular conditions
With relation to this matter, it is in the user’s interest to choose flexible hoses that con-
form to the standards in force in the country of use, provided that these exist within
the field of application in question.
1.2 In cases of difficulties regarding interpretation or where the necessary information
does not appear in the available documentation, the user of the flexible hose is advi-
sed to consult the manufacturer.
2. STORAGE CONDITIONS
2.1 General information
During use, flexible hoses are exposed to different factors which can cause their phy-
sical properties to alter, which in turn may lead to the hoses being unsuitable for use
when the time comes. Listed below are some general storage conditions that will help
prevent the deterioration of the products during storage.
2.2 Storage life
Storage life should be reduced as much as possible. Therefore stock rotation should
be ensured, applying the rule “first in, first out”. When long term storage cannot be
avoided, e.g. for one year, the item should be thoroughly checked before it is put
into operation.
2.3 Temperature and humidity
Storage temperature should be kept at between 0°C (32ºF) and 35°C (95ºF) wherever
possible (optimum temperature 15°C/59ºF). Relative humidity should preferably not
exceed 65%.
2.4 Light
Items should be stored in a dark place, away from direct sunlight and intense artificial
lighting. If storage facilities have windows or glazed areas, these should be covered
with red, orange or white paint.
2.5 Environment
The hoses must not come into contact with certain products or be exposed to their
vapors, particularly in the case of solvents, fuels, oils, fats, volatile components, acids,
disinfectant products, etc. Moreover, some materials such as copper, iron and manga-
nese can be harmful to some rubber-based mixtures.
2.6 Heat source
The distance between heat sources (e.g. heating units) and stored items must be suffi-
cient to ensure that the temperature remains within the temperature limits defined in
paragraph 2.3. If this is impossible, a heat screen should be used.
2.7 Electric or magnetic field
Electric or magnetic field variations should be prevented in the storage area since
they can induce current in the metal connections and cause them to heat up. These
fields can be caused by high voltage lines or high frequency generators.
2.8 Storage conditions
Flexible hoses should be stored without excessive restriction, lengthening or defor-
mation. All contact with sharp or angular objects or material must be avoided. Hoses
must be stored in a dry place in storage boxes wherever possible. Flexible hoses that
are coiled up should be stored flat and preferably not stacked. In cases where this is
impossible, the height of stacks should be limited so that the items at the bottom of
the stack are not deformed. Heavier items should be placed at the bottom and lighter
items should be placed at the top. The coil must be at least equal to the minimum
curvature radius specified by the product manufacturer or standards. Hanging coiled
hoses from spikes or hooks is not recommended. Flexible hoses that are supplied in
lengths should be stored flat without folds.
2.9 Rodents
Flexible hoses must be protected from rodents and suitable precautions should be
taken if there is any risk.
2.10 Removal from storage
Precautions should be taken to ensure that the hoses requested are in perfect condi-
tion and are the correct hoses for the required use. Therefore, the ability to identify
the different hoses stored is essential. Furthermore, and particularly in the case of
flexible hoses that have been in storage for a long period of time, the metal connec-
tion elements should be checked to confirm they are correctly fitted.
2.11 Return to storage
Hoses that have been removed from service must be emptied of the substances they
have carried before being returned to storage. Special care must be taken with items
that have transported chemical, explosive, inflammable, or corrosive products. After
cleaning, and before storage, their condition and suitability for later use must be
checked.
2.12 Cleaning
Cleaning with brushes, sponges or cloths must be carried out with soap and water or
surfactant based products. Metal brushes and abrasive, pointed or sharp instruments
must not be used and the use of solvents should be avoided.
3. RULES FOR USE
3.1 Handling
Flexible hoses should always be handled with some minimum precautions. For exam-
ple: they should not be scraped over sharp or abrasive surfaces, subjected to impacts
or cut, deformed or squashed by vehicles.
Heavy flexible hoses supplied in lengths should be transported appropriately, espe-
cially when being lifted.
3.2 Impermeability test
A pressurized hydraulic test is recommended after fitting the metal connectors to
ensure they are in good condition (no leaks and connector has not moved on the
hose). The test pressure value is usually indicated by the hose manufacturer if it is not
specified by test regulations or by standards.
If in doubt, check with the manufacturer.
3.3 Elimination of static electricity
The manufacturer’s advice should be strictly followed when considering electrical
conductivity requirements and a check should be carried out after installing the con-
nections.
3.4 Fixed installations
Flexible hoses used for fixed installations must be connected using the appropriate
fixing device wherever possible. This device should not hinder normal variations in
the flexible hose when under pressure, such as longitudinal or diametric variations
and/or torsion. When used under special conditions whether mechanical pressurized,
vacuum or geometric, the manufacturer should be consulted.
3.5 Moving parts
When flexible hoses need to be installed on moving parts, care must be taken to en-
sure that the motion does not cause the hose is not be subjected to impacts, blocka-
ges or friction and that the hose is not forced into abnormal curvatures, folds, traction
or torsion.
3.6 References
Apart from some fields of use where special standards exist, all flexible hoses must be
subjected to regular controls to ensure their suitability for continued use. In particular,
attention needs to be paid to the condition of the connections and to the appearance
of certain faults indicating hose degradation, whether due to normal ageing or to
damage attributable to improper use or accidents during maintenance.
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