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.