Getting the Right Connection: Qualifying Hydraulic Connections

If you Google “hydraulic connections,” or search the term in any other search engine of your choice, you’ll find plenty of other search results. These will include “hydraulic fittings” “hydraulic couplers” and “hydraulic adapters.”

That’s because hydraulic connections are synonymous with hydraulic fittings.

Now that we have that down, let’s determine how to qualify a hydraulic connection.

Replacing

The good news is, if you are looking for a cross reference or a replacement part, the internet is an invaluable resource. Search for the part number you have, the brand you need, and the answers will be at your fingertips. Of course, we always suggest consulting with experts if you are unsure of what you need. This is especially true if anything is changing or being corrected with your project.

Can I Reuse?

We’ve made it clear in the past that reusing hydraulic hose is a definite “no.” But when it comes to fittings, it’s a “maybe.” Some fittings are designed to be reusable. These fittings, also known as field attachable fittings, are great for quick assemblies that are needed in a pinch. They perform well under high pressure and are available in a wide variety of configurations such as flange, elbow and swivel.

It would be unwise to always assume your fittings are reusable, even if they are field attachable fittings. The fitting may have become damaged, it may have been reused previously and the threading could be compromised.

Types of Connections

Hydraulic connections are varied in configuration and material. Available in both crimp and reusable options, PDI supplies Eaton hydraulic hose fittings, which are made of high quality materials and are manufactured to meet all SAE, DOT and other industry requirements. They are specifically tested to withstand extremely high pressures.

Compression

Compression fittings feature a leak-tight, gas-tight seal and are easy to install as well as disassemble and reassemble. They are used to join two tubes or pipes, and their mechanical grip design means that they are typically more reliable in these applications than threaded fittings.

JIC

Also known as Army Navy (AN) fittings, JIC fittings feature a 37 degree flare. They are widely utilized in fuel delivery and fluid power applications, particularly within high pressure (up to 10,000 psi) applications.

American

When your application specifically requires American fittings, know that Power Drives has you covered. These fittings come in a variety of sizes can be used on a variety of different hoses, tubes and pipe sizes and materials such as stainless steel, steel and aluminum.

Metric

When your application specifically requires metric fittings, know that we have a variety. These fittings come in a variety of sizes can be used on a variety of different hoses, tubes and pipe sizes and materials such as stainless steel, steel and aluminum.

British

When your application specifically requires British fittings, know that we have BSPP, BSPT and more. These fittings will be applicable on equipment manufactured in the UK and other manufacturers in Europe. They come in a variety of sizes can be used on a variety of different hoses, tubes and pipe sizes and materials such as stainless steel, steel and aluminum.

Conversion

Conversion fittings are used to change one connection type to another, and are available in straight and 90° configurations, as well as steel and stainless steel. Steel can withstand higher pressures as compared to SAE standards, feature high corrosion resistance and are extremely rust resistant. Pressure ratings depend on size and thread design.

Pipe Fittings

Pipe is part of a basic hydraulic circuit, which means pipe connections are, too. Black iron adapters, or black pipe fittings, connect low and medium pressure black iron and black steel pipe systems.