It is therefore particularly important to check for the appearance of:
- Cracks, scratches, breaks or tears in the coating that reveal the structure
- Deformities, blisters, or swellings that appear when the hose is subjected to
pressure
- Leaks
These faults require the affected hose to be replaced. In certain areas of use, and for
safety reasons, there may be a use-by-date which will be indicated on the marking
of the flexible hose. This use-by-date must be observed even if the hose shows no
apparent signs of wear and tear.
3.7 Repairs
Repairing hoses is not generally recommended. However, in the particular cases when
hoses can be repaired, the manufacturer’s recommendations must be strictly adhered
to and a pressure test must be carried out after the repair. If there is any deterioration
as a result of a cut at one end and if the length of the remaining hose is in good con-
dition, then the hose can be repaired by cutting away the defective part.
PART B: ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
In addition to the general recommendations in part A there are some other particular
points that should also be noted.
1. BENDING RADIUS/ABRASIVE PRODUCTS
In order to obtain the optimal useful life, flexible hoses must be kept as straight as
possible, avoiding any unnecessary curvature. The widest possible bending radius
should therefore be used, since a radius that is too small will cause unwanted turbu-
lence inside the hose. Good electrical conductivity will also need to be tested.
This is ensured in these hoses with the effective discharge of the static electricity ge-
nerated by rubbing the friction of transported particles against the wall of the hoses.
With regard to connections, it should be ensured that exterior connections are not
subjected to abrasion. However, connections included in the hoses avoid the forma-
tion of turbulence that, as already mentioned, can cause increased and unsuitable
consumption.
2. CORROSIVE OR AGGRESSIVE PRODUCTS
This point refers specifically to acids, bases, solvents, agropharmaceutical products
and other chemical products. Should these products not appear in the list of com-
patible products pecified in the technical documentation or if the temperature and
concentration limits do not fall within acceptable parameters, the hose manufacturer
should be consulted. Fluids should not be allowed to stagnate in the flexible hoses,
especially in the case of solutions or emulsions, as the resulting decantation can cau-
se concentrations that exceed the admissible limits. Cleaning and rinsing should be
performed after each use in order to prevent this phenomenon. It is essential that
all necessary technical precautions are taken in order to avoid leaks caused by the
accidental explosion of the flexible hoses.
3. INFLAMMABLE PRODUCTS
This family of products is comprised in part by liquid hydrocarbons (essences, petro-
leum, and kerosene) or gaseous hydrocarbons (LPG). Most countries have regulations
governing the storage and transport of these products. In the field of flexible hoses,
attention must be paid to the regulations concerning electrical resistance, as well as
the nature and frequency of controls for checking suitability for use over time. In the
case of hydrocarbons, care must be taken to ensure that the percentage of aroma-
tic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene) falls within the limits established by the
flexible hose manufacturers.
23
BENDING RADIUS
RECOMMENDED
NOT RECOMMENDED