Under Pressure? Hose clamp pressure ratings considered…

Although often provided by other hose clamp manufacturers, JCS Hi-Torque does not provide maximum pressure rating for their hose clamps. Why is this?

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Multiple components and variables

The hose clamp is only one of several components that form a complete, functioning hose connection. The safe working pressure of a hose connection is affected by a number of variables including:

– type, diameter and rating of the hose
– design of hose tail
– system temperature and temperature variation
– fluid being transferred

To provide a maximum working pressure value without knowing all the associated variables could provide a false sense of security and potentially lead to premature failures and easily avoidable accidents.

When considering components for a fluid connection it is important to remember the provided pressure ratings are for the components tested individually and so further information is required to ensure they are suitable for the specific application and compatible with each other. Generally, for a fluid connection where a hose clamp is suitable the limiting factor is most often the hose assuming of course a suitable hose tail and a quality high-performance clamp is used.

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British Standards

JCS Hi-Grip hose clips are manufactured to exceed British Standard BS5315, which is universally regarded as the most stringent standard for rating hose clamps, and tests for sealing ability, clamping force and torque. Pressure testing is regularly performed as part of BS5315 and enables the British Standard Kitemark to be applied to approved JCS Hi-Grip hose clamps. JCS clamps are independently tested by BSI auditors every 6 months.

Although the test could provide a pressure rating for the hose clamp the test parameters are very specific and not relevant to a real-life situation.

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Installation is key

Installation of the hose clamp is key, fitting should be performed in agreement with the manufacturer’s installation procedure and recommended torque settings. Ensuring the clamp is seated correctly, installed tightly, and does not gouge into the hose are all very important, and you can have that extra assurance with the rounded banded edges of JCS hose clamps that there are no sharp edges that will cut into a soft walled hose.

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Alternative testing and customer specific applications

JCS implements the BSI test procedure for all products, but will change the type of hose, torque settings and pressures applied to test the full capability of our portfolio of clamps. The same test procedure is also used for all our comparative testing against competitor products, as this will highlight any potential weaknesses or failures.

For customer specific applications, JCS Hi-Torque are happy to perform pressure tests and provide a full written report. If a specific test is beyond the scope of our in-house capabilities, JCS Hi-Torque have access to an external testing facility where a complete hose assembly can be trialled and tested.

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If you would like to know more about the JCS range, please call us on +44 (0)1787 376212 or email us.

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