Process of Elimination When Identifying Hydraulic Hose Fittings

Industrial machines and equipment are designed and manufactured in every corner of the world. The hydraulic systems alone use countless different types of fittings and adapters with different sealing methods and thread forms. While the sealing method can often be distinguished by appearance, thread forms all seem to look the same, making it difficult and time-consuming to identify them when equipment modifications or repairs are needed. Identifying a fitting can be easily done, however, through the process of elimination after uninstalling the fitting.

1. First and foremost, determine the type of fitting – is it permanent or reusable?

Hydraulic hose fittings can be one of two types – permanent or reusable. Permanent or crimped hydraulic fittings are widely used in the fluid power industry because they are easier and quicker to attach than reusable fittings. Crimped fittings are also more reliable. To attach a crimped fitting, you will need crimping or swaging equipment. These fittings are squeezed onto the hose at assembly and are discarded when the hose assembly fails.

Reusable or field attachable hydraulic hose fittings are not commonly used today since they are considered “old technology.” A reusable fitting is easily identifiable because it fits right onto a hose by using only a wrench and a vise. Reusable fittings typically cost more than crimped fittings and are more time-consuming during the assembly process.

2. Identifying fittings ends and port connections

Accurate identification of ports and connectors in a hydraulic system is necessary before the correct hose or tube assembly can be assembled and installed.