Hose Assembly Storage and Care
Hose assemblies must be properly stored before being put into service. Improper storage of a hose will appreciably reduce the life of a hose assembly. In addition, hoses must not be collapsed, twisted, or bent sharply, whether rubber or PTFE types. Keep in mind that hose assemblies all have a minimum bend radius.
- Best practices for rubber hoses require them to be stored in dry areas in racks, stock bins, or cartons, free from contamination. Generally, storage should be away from a corrosive atmosphere, and temperatures should not exceed +120°F (48.88°C). However, PTFE hose types are not restricted to such storage temperatures.
- To minimize obsolescence or deterioration of hose in storage, follow the FIFO / “first-in, first-out” principle in managing bulk hose and hose assemblies. All assemblies taken from storage should be tested before being installed in aircraft.
- Hoses exceeding established age limits or showing signs of weakness, separation of plies, or other deterioration, should not be installed in aircraft.
- When stored, the ends of the hose and end fittings should be capped to prevent the filtering of dirt and dust into the hose and fittings.
