Selecting the outer cover of a hydraulic hose

Short answer

The outer cover is selected for abrasion, weather, ozone, oil contact or other external effects. The fluid compatibility of the inner tube and the resistance of the outer cover are separate matters. A durable cover does not eliminate the need for maintenance of a hose that rubs against a sharp edge or is incorrectly routed.

Source: S017, S036

Technical explanation

The chemical environment a hose sees inside and outside may not be the same. The outer cover of a product carrying oil may not be suitable for a different chemical wash or a hot surface. Manufacturers' abrasion resistance statements are based on specific test conditions; without knowing the test method and the basis of comparison, the multipliers of different brands should not be ranked directly. An additional protective sleeve should also be assessed so that it does not hide damage or restrict movement.

Source: S017, S036

Topic-specific checkpoints

ItemDescription
Mechanical exposureAbrasion, dragging, crushing and sharp edges.
Environmental exposureSun, ozone, moisture and external temperature.
Chemical contactOil, cleaning agent or process fluid reaching the outer surface.
EvidenceManufacturer test method, model and comparison conditions.

Source: S017, S036

How is it assessed in practice?

Carry out the external environment analysis along the route. The zone where the hose rubs against a metal edge, the area exposed to the sun and the point where liquid spills onto it are separate records. For example, selecting an abrasion-resistant series may not solve abrasion occurring at the same point due to incorrect clamping. Prefer to eliminate the cause of contact first, and then assess the need for a cover or protector. When new protection is added, also define which zones will be opened and inspected during maintenance.

Original editorial recommendation; not a clause of a standard.

Frequently asked questions

Does fitting an abrasion sleeve repair a damaged hose?

No. The sleeve may be protective, but we cannot assume it restores damaged reinforcement or cover to its original performance. Use of the damaged assembly must be assessed separately.

Source: S017, S036

Source coverage

  1. S017
    Parker Safety Guide, Publication 4400-B.1 Parker Hannifin · accessed 2026-10-20 PDF page 2; 2.5 Fluid CompatibilityPDF page 2; 2.4 Temperature | PDF page 3; 2.17 Radiant Heat | PDF page 2; 2.5 Fluid CompatibilityPDF page 4; 5.1 Maintenance Programme, 5.2 Visual Inspection, 5.3 Other Inspection and 5.6 Hose Inspection and FailurePDF page 4; 5.1 Maintenance Programme, 5.2 Visual Inspection, 5.3 Other Inspection and 5.6 Hose Inspection and Failure | PDF page 2; 2.8 Routing, 2.10 Mechanical Loads and 2.11 Physical Damage
  2. S036
    Industrial Hose Safety Connections Gates · accessed 2026-10-19 PDF pp. 6–8 construction and selection; pp. 10–19 maintenance; pp. 21–27 special services

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A027 · Revision 6 · Content date 2026-10-20 · Published 2026-10-20 · Translated from the Turkish original.