Hose and coupling products manufacturer and supplier of Dixon Group Europe, based in the north-west of England, points out that, when industrial hose and couplings are properly specified for the task, these assemblies perform their function flawlessly. However, the company warns that the potential hazards of hose assemblies are very real when hoses are used for applications they are not designed for, such as running steam through a chemical hose or using cam-and-groove couplings for air.

To avoid potential harm to personnel, the site and equipment, and to prevent product loss, Dixon stresses the importance of inspecting all hose assemblies prior to use.

Hose failure, damaged end fittings and correct hose specification are just a few of the factors an on-site maintenance engineer might have to address on a day-to-day basis, notes the group. Whether it is the correct hose required or the right type of coupling for the application, it is often a minefield when it comes to finding a solutions provider with the correct experience you can trust.

The company asserts that many customers will continue to buy what they always bought without thinking if it is the right hose for the application. Recently, Dixon recommended a customer change from using a hygienic rubber hose to a silicone hose. The silicone hose was 50% more expensive but, while the rubber hose needed to be changed every other month, the silicone hose has been in use for over eight months, which is a cost saving for the customer, both in terms of downtime and price over the period.

Dixon says there are important questions to ask when shopping for a hose. These include what the required size and hose length are; what the temperature of the material processed is; what industry the hose is going to be used in and whether it will be used for suction and delivery; what media will pass through the hose; what the pressure of the medium is; and what end connections are required?

Dixon’s hose range is an extension to its metallic, polytetrafluoroethylene and rubber offering and complementary to its long-established couplings range. The hose offer now comprises mandrel and long length constructions, as well as composite and spiral polyvinyl chloride. Typical applications include air, water, steam, oil, food and chemicals.

The group notes that it is growing and, diversifying all the time in order to ensure it meets the requirements of its customers. This steady growth means that it can satisfy its customers’ needs and, at the same time, continue to support customers with a high-level service.