Glossary · Pneumatics and hydraulics
Hose
Also known as: Hose assembly, Hydraulic hose
German: Schlauch
In fluid power, a hose is a flexible line that carries hydraulic fluid or compressed air between components that move relative to each other or where rigid tubing is impractical; with fittings attached it forms a hose assembly with a defined pressure rating and service life.
- Fluid power
In one sentence
A hose is a flexible line carrying hydraulic fluid or compressed air; as a hose assembly it has a rated pressure and service life.
Example
The excavator's hydraulic hose assemblies are marked with their manufacturing date and replaced at the interval stated in the maintenance manual.
How it applies
- Engineering: Hoses are selected by pressure, temperature, media and bending radius; routing avoids kinks, twisting and chafing. Hose restraints or guards protect against whipping if a hose fails.
- Operation: Hose failure can release fluid at high pressure, causing injection injuries, whipping hoses and loss of load control.
- Maintenance: Hose assemblies age even when unused. Many manufacturers and national rules recommend regular inspection and replacement after a defined service life.
- Documentation: Specify inspection criteria (cracks, leaks, chafing, bulges) and replacement intervals. Warn never to search for hydraulic leaks by hand, and to depressurize before work.
Hose vs. tube
A tube (or pipe) is rigid and needs fittings and bends; a hose is flexible. Tubes are preferred for fixed runs because they last longer and are easier to route neatly.