Due to the high pressures hydraulic systems are under using the wrong type, faulty, wrongly sized or otherwise inappropriate fittings can have a negative impact on the running of your hydraulic system as well as its safety.
This guide provides an overview of the different types, varieties and uses of hydraulic fittings including hydraulic connectors, hydraulic hose fittings, o-ring connectors and all-metal fittings.
What Are Hydraulic Fittings?
Hydraulic fittings are what connect all the different parts of a hydraulic system including the hydraulic pipes, tubes and hoses.
They join the different parts of the hydraulic system together creating a tight seal and therefore ensuring there are no fluid or air leaks that would affect how effective the hydraulic system works and compromise the safety of the system.
Hydraulic connectors and fittings use varying connection methods depending on function.
Types Of Hydraulic Fittings
A key distinction in the types of hydraulic fittings is the connection method.
These include:
- Compression fittings – often all metal fittings which create the seal with a nut and an o ring which is tightened over the piping and ferrule.
- Mechanical Grip fittings – often used in high vibrational positions they use two ferrules one at the back and one at the front.
- Bite-type fittings – for high pressure connections that require a stronger seal as the sharp ferrule ‘bites’ when compressed.
- Push to connect fittings – often used when the fitting needs frequent disconnection and reconnection. The end take the tubing inside it.
- Flare fittings – for specialist hydraulic systems with a wide range of operating perameters including very high pressures. They have a flared end and require flaring tools to install them.
- Crimp fittings – requiring crimping tools the hose is placed over a tubular end and being crimped together.
- Flange fittings – have flush edges or collars which can join to the perpendicular hosing or tubes and sealed with clamps, welding or another method.
- End fittings – including clamp ends which are mechanically joined through clamping or plain ends which are welded, glued or otherwise permanently attached.
- Threaded Fittings – with female and male threads which simply connect without sealing are straight threads. Those with tapered threads do create a seal espcially when improved with seal tape or an added special coating. It is also possible to get precision thread which can ‘dry fit’ meaning no extra sealant is required this is used when contaminatin from the sealant could pose an issue.
Main Functions Of Hydraulic Fittings
Hydraulic fittings ensure that the hydraulic system is adequately sealed to prevent any fluid or air from escaping which helps with the efficient running of the system.
The seals created by effective fittings also help to prevent any contaminants such as debris or air from entering the system and causing problems.
What To Do If You Require Further Information
This is a concise guide to the different types of hydraulic fittings and the functions they perform.
However, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the best, most suitable fitting for your hydraulic system or consult a professional hydraulic engineer.