Customer Service 0232 479 15 50

What is a Hydraulic Hose Testing Machine? Complete Guide to Safety and Standards

What is a Hydraulic Hose Testing Machine? Complete Guide to Safety and Standards


What is a Hydraulic Hose Testing Machine? Complete Guide to Safety and Standards

Leakage or hose bursting in hydraulic systems is not just a malfunction, it is a major risk factor that can cause serious workplace accidents and costly downtime. The most effective way to minimize these risks is  to  verify the durability of the hoses that have been assembled using a hydraulic hose testing machine (Hose Test Bench).

In this article, we will examine the hydraulic hose testing processes, the working principles of the machines and why they should be found in every hydraulic workshop in technical details.

hose testing

Why is a Hydraulic Hose Testing Machine Important?

Hydraulic hoses are often subject to sudden pressure fluctuations (peak pressures) well above their operating pressure. It is impossible to understand how a hose will react under pressure just by looking at its appearance.

  • Tightness Control: It is ensured that the fitting processes are carried out without errors.
  • Occupational Safety: High-pressure oil jets can lead to fatal injuries. Testing ensures that this risk is eliminated in a protected cabin in a shop floor environment.
  • Quality Standards: A test report is mandatory to produce in accordance with ISO and DIN norms (e.g. ISO 1402).

Technical Specifications and Working Principle

A modern hydraulic hose testing machine typically operates in two main phases: Static Pressure Testing and Dynamic (Impulse) Testing.

  1. Static Pressure Test (Hose Test Cabinet)

These machines trap the hose in a secure cabin. The inside of the hose is filled with water or a special test fluid. Once the air is released, pressure is applied, usually 1.5 or 2 times the working pressure.

  1. Important Hardware Components:
  • High Pressure Pump: Usually air-driven (pneumatic) hydraulic pumps are used.
  • Safety Glass (Lexan): Impact-resistant polycarbonate glasses are preferred to protect the operator in the event of an explosion.
  • Automated Reporting: Modern machines can output the test result in PDF format or process it into the barcode system.

Hydraulic Hose Testing Standards: What Pressure Should Be Applied?

According to international standards (such as SAE J517 or EN 853), hoses are usually tested according to these criteria:

Test Type

Applied Pressure

Purpose

Working Pressure (WP)

Normal pressure of the system

Sets the daily usage limit.

Proof Pressure

WP x 1.5

Checks for leakage and capping

Burst Pressure

WP x 4

It determines the maximum strength limit of the hose.

hose test 

Note: Routine workshop checks usually use a "Proof Test". It is not intended to burst the hose, it is simply confirmed to be safe.

What to Consider When Choosing the Right Testing Machine

When purchasing or having a hydraulic hose test unit manufactured, you should consider these technical details:

  1. Maximum Pressure Capacity: If your workshop is making 4-wire (R15) hoses, you will need a machine with a capacity of at least 1500-2000 bar.
  2. Test Fluid: Water-based fluids can corrode. For this reason, test fluids with anti-corrosion additives should be preferred.
  3. Cabin Width: Internal volume is critical to be able to test multiple hoses at the same time or to place long hoses in a coiled manner.
  4. Data Logging: If you want to offer test certificates to your customers, you should choose models that keep digital records.

Conclusion: Quality is not a coincidence

The hydraulic hose testing machine is not a luxury but a must-have for professional hydraulic services. Using the right equipment reduces your operating costs and increases your brand reliability.

Are you also looking for the most suitable hydraulic hose testing solutions for your production line? You can get detailed information about our machines with capacities and features specific to your needs by contacting our technical team.