Hydraulic hoses are essential components in various industrial applications, transmitting pressurized fluids to power machinery and equipment. One of the critical factors to consider when selecting a hydraulic hose is its size. A common way to express hose size is through dash numbers.
This blog will delve into the concept of hydraulic hose dash sizes, providing a clear understanding of what they represent and how to interpret them.
We’ll explore the relationship between dash numbers and hose dimensions, as well as the importance of selecting the correct size for optimal performance and safety.
By the end of this blog, you’ll have a solid grasp of hydraulic hose dash sizes and be equipped to make informed decisions for your specific applications.
What is Dash Size?
Dash size is a numerical system used to represent the approximate outside diameter of hydraulic hoses. It’s a convenient and standardized method for quickly identifying hose sizes, especially in the field or when referring to catalogs and specifications.
The dash number corresponds to the hose’s outside diameter in eighths of an inch. For example, a hose with a dash number of 8 has an outside diameter of 8/8 inches, or 1 inch.
Here’s a breakdown of how dash numbers relate to hose diameters:
- Dash 4: 4/8 inch (1/2 inch)
- Dash 6: 6/8 inch (3/4 inch)
- Dash 8: 8/8 inch (1 inch)
- Dash 10: 10/8 inch (1 1/4 inches)
- Dash 12: 12/8 inch (1 1/2 inches)
- And so on…
While dash numbers provide a general indication of hose size, it’s important to note that they don’t always precisely match the exact outside diameter due to manufacturing tolerances and variations between different hose brands. For critical applications or when precise dimensions are required, referring to the manufacturer‘s specifications is essential.
Hydraulic Hose Dash Size Chart
Dash size is a numerical system used to denote the approximate outside diameter (OD) of hydraulic hoses. It serves as a quick reference for identifying hose sizes, especially in the field or when consulting catalogs.
How Dash Sizes Work
- Each dash number represents a specific diameter increment. These increments are typically measured in sixteenths of an inch.
- For example: A “-6” hose indicates an outside diameter of 6/16 inch, or 3/8 inch.
- Another example: A “-10” hose corresponds to an outside diameter of 10/16 inch, or 5/8 inch.
Key Points to Remember
- Dash sizes for fittings are slightly different from those for hoses. Fittings often have two sizes: one for the fitting end connection and one for the hose size.
- Industry standard numbers for hoses typically refer to the inside diameter (ID) in sixteenths of an inch. However, there are exceptions like SAE 10R5, SAE 100R14, SAEJ51, and SAEJ2064 hoses, where the dash number indicates the hose ID is equal to the OD.
- Hoses and fittings are measured differently: Hoses are measured by their inside diameter (ID), while fittings are measured by their outside diameter (OD).
- Hoses can vary in flexibility: While the term “hose” often implies flexibility, there are both flexible and rigid hoses available. Nylon tubing is an example of a flexible hose, while flexible metal hoses are relatively rigid.
Here is the hydraulic hose dash size chart
| Dash No. | Inches | Millimeters | Inches | Millimeters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -2 | 1/8 | 3.2 | – | – |
| -3 | 3/16 | 4.8 | – | – |
| -4 | 1/4 | 6.4 | 3/16 | 4.8 |
| -5 | 5/16 | 7.9 | 1/4 | 6.4 |
| -6 | 3/8 | 9.5 | 5/16 | 7.9 |
| -8 | 1/2 | 12.7 | 3/8 | 9.5 |
| -10 | 5/8 | 15.9 | 1/2 | 12.7 |
| -12 | 3/4 | 19 | 5/8 | 15.9 |
| -14 | 7/8 | 22.2 | 3/4 | 19 |
| -16 | 1 | 25.4 | 7/8 | 22.2 |
| -20 | 1-1/4 | 31.8 | 1 | 25.4 |
| -24 | 1-1/2 | 38.1 | 1-1/8 | 28.6 |
| -32 | 2 | 50.8 | 1-3/8 | 34.9 |
| -40 | 2-1/2 | 63.5 | 1-1/2 | 38.1 |
| -48 | 3 | 76.2 | 1-3/4 | 44.5 |
| -56 | 3-1/2 | 88.9 | 2 | 50.8 |
| -64 | 4 | 101.6 | 2-1/2 | 63.5 |
| -72 | 4-1/2 | 115.2 | 2-3/4 | 71.4 |
Why Is Important to the Correct Hydraulic Hose Dash Size
Here is the Importance of the Correct Hydraulic Hose Dash Size
Selecting the appropriate hydraulic hose dash size is crucial for several reasons:
1. Performance and Efficiency:
- Proper Flow: A hose that is too small can restrict fluid flow, leading to reduced system performance and increased pressure drop.
- Pressure Integrity: A hose that is too large may not be able to withstand the required pressure, potentially resulting in leaks or bursts.
2. Safety:
- Burst Prevention: Using a hose that is undersized can increase the risk of bursting, especially under high pressure conditions. This can lead to serious injuries or equipment damage.
- Leak Prevention: A well-fitted hose helps prevent leaks, which can waste fluid, contaminate the system, and create safety hazards.
3. Equipment Life:
- Reduced Wear and Tear: A properly sized hose minimizes stress on the hose and fittings, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
- System Protection: A correctly sized hose helps protect other components in the hydraulic system from damage caused by excessive pressure or fluid flow issues.
4. Cost-Effectiveness:
- Avoidance of Failures: Using the correct hose size helps prevent premature failures, saving money on replacement costs and downtime.
- Energy Efficiency: A properly sized hose can contribute to energy efficiency by minimizing pressure losses and optimizing system performance.
Choosing the right hydraulic hose dash size ensures optimal performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness in hydraulic systems. By carefully considering the abovementioned factors, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential problems associated with improperly sized hoses.
Conclusion
Understanding hydraulic hose dash sizes is fundamental for selecting the right hose for your specific application. By knowing the relationship between dash numbers and hose dimensions, you can ensure proper fit, performance, and safety.
Remember, the dash size is a crucial factor to consider when designing or maintaining hydraulic systems. Always refer to the manufacturer‘s specifications for accurate sizing information and to avoid potential problems associated with improperly sized hoses.
Ready to access our comprehensive hydraulic hose dash size chart? Visit our official website today! Our chart provides detailed information on various hose sizes and their corresponding dash numbers, making it easy to select the perfect hose for your needs.
Don’t compromise on the performance and safety of your hydraulic system. Download our latest hydraulic hose dash size chart now and make informed decisions for your projects.
