Pneumatic Couplings and Preventing Hose Whip

When a pneumatic hose breaks free from its couplings, the issue is called “hose whip,” and it can be dangerous. They require much lower pressure than hydraulic systems, but ISO and OSHA have strict standards regarding what must be done to prevent hose whip.

Hose whip occurs when the pressurized hose breaks loose and whips about the space. Naturally, this can cause damage and injury to both workers and their workspace, which is why ISO and OSHA demand that these hoses be kept away from workers. The restraint systems have two major components: a hose collar or clamp, and a cable assembly. You will choose them based on your hose diameter and the type of cable you’re using.

At Royal Brass Incorporated, we recommend Parker coupling in San Jose, CA. These couplers can detect the air pressure present and will automatically shut down if an increase in pressure is detected. A piston will come down, completely preventing airflow. This prevents the hose from endangering workers or the space.

Here are some preventative measures you can take to avoid the risks associated with hose whip:

• Inspections: Not only should you inspect the connections frequently to make sure you’re not missing a potential hazard, but you should also inspect the hoses themselves. If you see soft or torn outer parts, that indicates the house is at the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced immediately.
• Reduce the pressure: If you can get away with keeping your hoses at 30 psi, you have a much greater chance of avoiding dangerous hose ruptures.
• Avoid sharp bends: Sharp bends in the hoses can actually increase the pressure within the hose, which damages any reinforcements you’ve put into place.
• Don’t jerk or pull: Jerking or pulling on a snagged hose can cause serious damage. It may cause the hose to rupture, which is the main cause of hose whip.
• Install guards: Anytime your employees need to work around a pressurized hose, you should install guards or cables to ensure that any rupture will not affect your workers.
• Solid lines: If you’re working around employees, try to use solid lines instead of flexible pipe. It can be more difficult to install, but the safety considerations are important.
• Depressurize: Never connect or disconnect pressurized hoses, as that is just asking for a problem. Always depressurize your hoses so that you minimize injury risk as much as possible.

Buy pneumatic couplers in San Jose, CA

Royal Brass Incorporated has been serving the San Jose, CA area since 1952. Our selection of hoses, fittings, flanges, regulators, valves, adapters and gauges are the best in Northern California. No matter what your project needs, we’re sure to have the right product—and if not, we’d be happy to order it from one of the most reputable brands in the industry. If you’re having trouble deciding between your options, our friendly and professional staff can offer you all the assistance you need. Call or stop by today to find out how we can serve you!

Categorised in: Hose Parts, Hydraulic Hose