Testing the negative pressure resistance of flexible hoses is critical for ensuring their safety and performance, especially for industrial flexible hoses used in vacuum or low-pressure systems. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to conduct this test. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, and it prioritizes accuracy to avoid faulty results.
Step 1: Prepare Test Equipment and Materials for Flexible Hoses
First, gather all the tools and materials you need for the test. You’ll need three key items:
A vacuum pump
Pressure gauge
A test flexible hose. This must match the size and material of the negative pressure flexible hose you want to test.
Before starting, check each piece of equipment. Make sure the vacuum pump runs smoothly, the pressure gauge reads accurately, and the test hose has no pre-existing damage. This prep work ensures your test results are reliable.
Step 2: Determine the Test Pressure for the Flexible Hose
Next, figure out the maximum negative pressure you’ll test. To do this, use the flexible hose’s design pressure as a reference.
The design pressure usually refers to the maximum positive pressure the industrial flexible hose can handle. But it still works as a key reference for setting the maximum negative pressure. For example, if a flexible hose has a design positive pressure of 10 bar, you might set the maximum test negative pressure to -8 bar (adjust based on industry standards or your specific needs). This ensures you test the hose within safe but rigorous limits.
Step 3: Connect the Test Equipment to the Flexible Hose
Now, link the flexible hose to be tested to the vacuum pump and pressure gauge.
First, attach one end of the test hose to the vacuum pump’s outlet. Then, connect the other end to the pressure gauge. Make sure every connection is tight—loose joints cause air leaks, which ruin test accuracy. You can use hose clamps or sealing tape to secure connections if needed. Double-check each joint before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Start the Negative Pressure Test for the Flexible Hose
Once connections are secure, turn on the vacuum pump. Gradually reduce the pressure inside the negative pressure flexible hose—don’t rush this step. As the pressure drops, watch the hose closely for signs of trouble.
Look for three main issues: deformation, plastic deformation, and leaks. When the pressure reaches your preset maximum negative pressure, turn off the vacuum pump. Let the hose sit at this pressure for a few minutes, then continue observing its condition.