Hydraulic pipes are used where no movement is intended in the line

Hydraulic pipes are used where no movement is intended in the line. Hydraulic media must flow through closed circuits to deliver operating pressure to the actuators. In moving sections, high-pressure, flexible hydraulic hoses are used for this purpose. Where no movement is intended in the line, hydraulic pipes are used. These are characterized by particularly high pressure resistance.

Properties of hydraulic pipes

Hydraulic pipes are flexible enough to be installed individually for the respective application. Forming bends is intended with approved lines and is therefore unproblematic. At the same time, however, they are designed to be so robust that they can withstand the high operating pressure in the hydraulic system. Hydraulic pipes are intended for one-time installation. They are easily accessible and practical to install. For connection to lines, couplings, or branches, they are equipped with couplings or threads.

Installation of hydraulic pipes

Hydraulic pipes are installed in the hydraulic system using suitable clamps or brackets. The support is fixed only in the transverse direction. In the longitudinal direction, the hydraulic pipes remain flexible and movable. For particularly long hydraulic or pneumatic media lines, “lyre bends” are inserted along the route. These absorb significant length changes during large temperature fluctuations.

This keeps them movable during temperature changes. As a general rule, hydraulic systems are installed with as few pipes as possible. Every connection represents a new potential weak point from which hydraulic fluid can leak. In small and medium-sized hydraulic systems, defective hydraulic pipes are not repaired but generally replaced. Repairs are carried out only on thick-walled pipes, such as main drinking-water lines, for example.

Damage to hydraulic pipes

Although hydraulic pipes are installed statically, they can still be damaged. Exposed hydraulic pipes are often subject to corrosion or mechanical loads.

Another hazard exists inside the line. Unfavorable flow conditions, poorly positioned valves, or disadvantageously designed pumps can lead to cavitation. Cavities are vacuum bubbles that form briefly. When they collapse, a high-pressure wave is generated. This can tear material from the inner wall of the hydraulic pipe. The resulting particles then place additional strain on all other elements of the hydraulic system. They also progressively weaken the pipe until it leaks. It is therefore recommended to always investigate the cause of leaks. By adjusting the hydraulic system, it may be possible to prevent cavitation from occurring again.

Use of hydraulic pipes

Any media line that is not a flexible hydraulic hose is considered a hydraulic pipe. This means that even the thin brake lines in vehicles can be included. These are made of copper. This has the advantage that they can be bent easily and adapted to the installation situation.

Further hydraulic pipes can be found on excavators along the dipper arm or on stationary hydraulic systems.