Hydraulic systems play a critical role in the mining industry, powering heavy machinery and equipment essential for operations in Kalgoorlie. However, issues with your hydraulic hoses and fittings can lead to costly downtime and safety hazards. Not to worry! Mako Hydraulic Services is one of the established names in Kalgoorlie’s hydraulics industry, catering to clients with precision, reliability, and unwavering dedication. 

In this blog, Mako Hydraulic Services will explore the primary causes of hydraulic hose and fitting failure in Kalgoorlie mines and provide insights on how to avoid them.

A Legacy of Expertise

At the helm of Mako Hydraulic Services is Managing Director Michael Hewson, a seasoned veteran with over 22 years of personal experience in the industry. Michael's illustrious career includes 15 years as a site mobile fitter, servicing refineries and plants for renowned companies such as the following: 

• BHP
• Rio Tinto
• Western Power
• Coogee Chemicals
• Crushing & Mining Equipment (CME)
• Crushing Services International (CSI)
• And many others!

With a legacy of service excellence dating back to March 2018, our company has become synonymous with top-tier hydraulic solutions in the Goldfields region, operating from our state-of-the-art workshop located at 5 Dwyer Street, Boulder.

No job is too big or small for us to handle with precision and efficiency. From hydraulic hose replacement and testing to ongoing inspections and technical support, we are dedicated to performing our work without delay, ensuring our clients receive the highest level of service every step of the way. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, we continue to set the standard for hydraulic solutions in the Goldfields region.

Common Causes of Hydraulic Hose and Fitting Failure in Kalgoorlie Mines and How to Avoid Them

Understanding the common causes of failure and implementing preventive measures is crucial for maintaining hydraulic system reliability. Without further ado, let’s discuss the common causes of said failures:

1. Abrasion and Wear

Exposure to Rough Surfaces:

• Contact with abrasive materials such as rocks, gravel, and mining debris can cause abrasion. 
• Continuous rubbing against rough surfaces leads to wear and eventual hose failure.

Preventive Measures:

• Use protective hose covers or shields to minimise contact with abrasive materials.
• Routinely inspect hoses for signs of abrasion and replace them before failure occurs.

2. Improper Installation

Incorrect Routing and Clamping:

• Improper routing can lead to excessive bending, kinking, or twisting of hoses.
• Inadequate clamping may result in movement or vibration, leading to premature wear and failure.

Preventive Measures:

• Follow manufacturer guidelines for proper hose routing and installation.
• Ensure hoses are securely clamped at appropriate intervals to prevent movement and stress.

3. High Pressure and Pulsation

Excessive Pressure Spikes:

• Sudden pressure surges or pulsations within the hydraulic system can exceed hose rating limits.
• High-pressure spikes weaken hose integrity and may cause bursts or leaks.

Preventive Measures:

• Install pressure relief valves or dampeners to regulate pressure spikes.
• Select hoses with appropriate pressure ratings for specific applications and operating conditions.

4. Fluid Contamination

Ingress of Foreign Particles:

• Contaminants such as dirt, debris, and moisture can enter the hydraulic system, leading to component wear and corrosion.
• Fluid contamination accelerates the degradation of hose materials and compromises system performance.

Preventive Measures:

• Implement regular fluid sampling and analysis to monitor contamination levels.
• Use high-quality filtration systems to remove contaminants and maintain fluid cleanliness.

5. Temperature Extremes

Exposure to High Temperatures:

• Elevated operating temperatures can cause hose materials to degrade and lose flexibility.
• Thermal expansion and contraction may weaken hose fittings and connections over time.

Preventive Measures:

• Install heat-resistant hoses and fittings suitable for high-temperature environments.
• Provide insulation or shielding to minimise heat transfer and protect hoses from direct exposure.

6. Chemical Compatibility Issues

Incompatibility with Fluids:

• Exposure to incompatible fluids or chemicals can cause hose materials to swell, degrade, or become brittle.
• Chemical reactions between fluids and hose materials may lead to premature failure.

Preventive Measures:

• Select hoses made from materials compatible with specific fluids and chemicals used in the mining process.
• Conduct compatibility testing and consult with hose manufacturers to ensure proper material selection.

7. Age and Wear

Degradation Over Time:

• Aging hoses experience material fatigue, cracking, and deterioration of internal layers.
• Continuous flexing, bending, and pressure cycles contribute to the wear and weakening of hose construction.

Preventive Measures:

• Implement regular inspections and maintenance schedules to identify aging hoses.
• Replace hoses at recommended intervals or based on visual inspection criteria to prevent unexpected failures.

8. Insufficient Hydraulic Hose Maintenance and Inspection

Lack of Routine Checks:

• Neglecting regular inspections and maintenance increases the risk of undetected hose damage or deterioration.
• Failure to identify issues early may result in catastrophic failures and downtime.

Preventive Measures:

• Establish a comprehensive maintenance program with scheduled inspections and component replacements.
• Train personnel on proper inspection techniques and encourage proactive maintenance practices.

9. Poor Hose Quality and Specification

Substandard Materials and Construction:

• Inferior quality hoses may lack durability and fail to meet performance requirements.
• Non-compliant hoses may not withstand operating conditions or environmental factors in mining environments.

Preventive Measures:

• Source hoses from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality, industry-compliant products.
• Verify hose specifications and certifications to ensure compatibility with mining applications and regulatory standards.

Commitment to Excellence

At Mako Hydraulic Services, we are committed to providing our clients with cost-effective solutions that deliver unparalleled value. We understand not all needs are the same. Varying equipment, different designs, application environments, and conditions are just factors that impact how our products and systems are designed and manufactured. Not to worry!

Mako Hydraulic Services provides:

• On-site mining services
• A wide product range
• Trained specialists
• Hose container workshop
• Fire suppression

We also offer the following: 

• Hydraulic hoses
• Hydraulic fittings
• Hydraulic onsite hose container workshops
• Hydraulic oil
• Hydraulic power units
• Hydraulic repairs
• Hydraulic cylinders
• High temp air hoses
• Hose cleaning products
• High-pressure ball valves
• Mobile hydraulic hose repairs – 24 hours
• Mobile onsite fire suppression repairs
• Fire equipment sales
• Fire equipment servicing
• Flow testing plant fire hydrants
• Tube/hose clamps
• Gauges – all sizes & pressures
• SS ball valves
• Camlock fittings – SS & Aluminium
• Material handling hoses
• Stainless convolute hoses
• Chemical resistant hoses
• Huge range of industrial fittings

Whether it's new hydraulic hose installation, breakdown services, or bulk supplies of hydraulic and industrial products, we strive to exceed expectations at every turn. 

Reliability and Accessibility

What sets Mako Hydraulic Services apart is our unwavering commitment to reliability and accessibility. With stocked service trucks and onsite hose containers, our team responds to emergencies 24/7, ensuring our clients are covered even in the most remote locations. Moreover, our dedication to customer engagement means we're always ready to answer questions, provide technical support, and engage in our clients' needs.

Partner with Mako Hydraulic Services for Unrivaled Excellence

For unmatched expertise, reliability, and dedication to excellence in hydraulic hose assembly and solutions, look no further than Mako Hydraulic Services. With our expertise and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, you can trust we are dedicated to meeting your expectations. Contact our team today or visit Mako Hydraulic Services Pty Ltd's business page to learn more about how we can elevate your hydraulic solutions to new heights!