Hose crimpers are powered and un-powered tools for joining deformable metal fittings with sections of rigid and flexible hose and tubing. They range from simple, portable, handheld devices that are designed for piecework to sophisticated, sometimes automated, bench-top, work cell, or freestanding machines that are engineered for precision and high-volume runs. Hose crimpers apply force with 360 degrees of contact at the outer diameter (OD) of the adhering metal fitting or component for joining with a length of hose, tube, or pipe. Typically, handheld hose crimpers are used for one-off or low-volume runs. Hose crimping machines are used for more demanding applications such as industrial hose crimping, metal forming, shop floor production runs, and machine shop maintenance. Hydraulic hose crimping and pneumatic hose crimping equipment for automotive and aerospace applications are also available.
Crimping hydraulic hoses doesn’t need to be difficult. Simply follow the steps below:
Measure the length of hose your hydraulic system requires and cut to the right length. Before cutting, for critical hose lengths ensure to account for the cut off factor when determining the final length. If the edge of the hose is rough then this should be filed smooth.
Determine the insertion depth for the hydraulic hose within the appropriate fitting to ensure that once the assembly of the hydraulic system is complete it won’t fail.
Tip: Mark the insertion depth on the hydraulic hose with chalk to ensure accuracy.
Choose the correct crimp diameter for each hose, before selecting the correct crimp die set.
Push the hydraulic hose into the crimping machine and through the crimp die until the hose’s fitting appears above the crimp die. The top of the hose should not be visible above the crimp die.
Place the compression ring or collar above the crimp die.
Ensure that you have put on your safety gear.
Turn on the hydraulic hose crimping machine.
The crimping machine then pushes the collar that compresses the die and the machine will stop once the collar is at the bottom of the crimp die.
If you have marked the insertion depth with chalk checking whether the hydraulic hose crimping was successful should be simply. A chalk mark that is no longer at the base of the fitting then this is not a secure crimp and a result of the hose or fitting moving during the crimping process. A chalk mark that has not moved is the sign of a good, secure crimp to a hydraulic hose.
At Hidroman, we pride ourselves on the quality of our workshop machinery. Whether you’re looking for fixed machinery or a more portable alternative, you’ll be able to find the perfect equipment for you amongst our vast range.
Specifications
Most hose crimpers are specified according to product type, hose style, and coupling style. Crimp force and maximum crimp are also important to consider. Additional parameters for hose crimpers include:
die
die ring
crimp diameter
crimp length
hose insertion
Powered crimping machines differ in terms of physical dimensions such as height, depth, and width; standards-based capabilities; and set-up time and full cycle time. Cycle times vary with hose and fitting styles and sizes. Accessories for hose crimping machines range from hand pumps to electric pumps. Tools and dies are color-coded.
Types
Categories of hose crimpers include:
hydraulic hose crimping machines
pneumatic hose crimping machines
programmable hose crimping machines
Hydraulic hose crimpers are designed for use with hydraulic hoses and custom hydraulic hose assemblies. Hydraulic hoses are graded by fluid compatibility, pressure, and temperature. They have a rubber interior surrounded by layers of woven wire and rubber. When used with hydraulic hose crimpers, the hose ends must be cut square and the right hose fittings used. Pneumatic hose crimpers, as their name suggests, are designed for use with pneumatic hoses and custom pneumatic hose assemblies. These hoses also require square ends and fittings, but are used in industrial air supply systems. Programmable hose crimping machines are also available. They feature a keypad or touch screen and integral software. Crimp algorithms compensate for hose and fitting variations and distortions within the crimper itself, an issue with larger and heavier hose fittings.