Contractor Tips Blog

Jun
24

How to Find the Right Discharge Hose

Many mining, agricultural and industrial manufacturing operations rely on discharge hoses. These heavy-duty hoses need to withstand heavy outflow and be resilient under a variety of temperature and pressure fluctuations. Finding the right discharge hose for your business can help reduce downtime during production caused by hose breaks or leaks. To determine the best size and material for your discharge hose, consider these factors.

Discharge Direction

To prevent kinks or blockages, it is important to have a discharge hose designed for the directional flow. Whether the hose will be horizontal or vertical can impact what hose material is best. For example, rubber hoses are more prone to kinking, which may not be ideal in horizontal applications.

Material Type

For discharging water, a variety of hoses can be used, but it is important to have materials that are mildew resistant. If the material is abrasive, you may need reinforced hosing. Corrosive materials or chemicals must also have customized hoses to prevent leaks and premature wear.

Length and Diameter

How long your hose will need to be and the diameter are both critical when choosing a discharge hose. While there are many standard sizes, often it may be best to have a hose customized for your application. Quality hose suppliers can design and produce discharge hoses of the right material, diameter and length to meet your specifications for improved performance.

To find the best discharge hose for your needs, talk to your industrial rubber or plastics supplier. Often they can design a hose that is customized for your application versus purchasing a standard hose that may not work best for your operation. A customized discharge hose may last longer and require fewer altercations, saving time and money in the long run.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jan
25

HDPE vs UHMW Polyurethane Products

Polyurethane is a popular material for many industrial products, but there are many different variations on this material. Two common options you will find are High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Ultra High Molecular Weight (UHMW). While both may look the same, to determine which is right for your application, it is important to know the differences and best uses for these types of polyurethane.

HDPE Basics

HDPE is high density, which means it the polymer chains are packed tightly, making it a harder material that can withstand high impact. The molecular structure is great for resisting liquid absorption, chemical reactions and impact. Some of the more common applications for HDPE include:

  • Pipe fittings
  • Containers for liquids, both chemical and food-grade
  • Cutting surfaces
  • Trays

UHMW Basics

UHMW polyurethane has the highest molecular density of thermoplastic polymers. It is very durable, resisting cracking, impact, water absorption and chemical reactions. One of the differences in this material versus other polymers is its smoothness to allow easy sliding. Products that are often made from UHMW include:

  • Rollers
  • Screws
  • Sliding plates
  • Gears

The main difference between HDPE and UHMW is how they are made and the molecular structure. UHMW has high molecular weights and long polymer chains versus HDPE which is known for having a high strength-to-density ratio. Each has its benefits and is better suited for different applications.

If you are looking for polyurethane products, it is important to have a supplier that can choose the best material for your needs. Discuss the virtues of both HDPE and UHMW with your industrial material provider to determine which is best for your application.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Nov
8

Hose Maintenance: Avoiding Line Breakdown

When it comes to keep your product line moving, hydraulic hoses can make or break your productivity. Most machinery requires these hoses to function, yet they are notorious for breaking, splitting and tearing. A lost hose is a common cause of a line breakdown, stopping everything until the hose is replaced. While hoses do have a finite lifetime, there are ways to extend their use and reduce breakdowns due to hose failure with preventive maintenance.

Prevent Outside Damage

One of the leading causes of hose failures is cuts or abrasion from exterior sources. If you check your hoses regularly and notice splices or damage to the outside of the hose, consider adding protection for the hose. A metal sleeve can protect the hose, extending the life and reduce the chance of exterior damage.

Replace Brackets and Clamps

Often hoses wear quickly due to missing brackets or dysfunctional clamps. It is important to inspect hoses and hardware routinely to detect any issues. If the clamps or brackets are not performing, the hose will be exposed to friction and movement that can reduce the amount of cycles.

Use Quality Hoses and Fittings

Often the reason hoses breakdown quicker than needed is due to using fitting and hoses of poor quality or from various suppliers. Finding a top-notch supplier that can provide both your hoses and fitting to ensure they mesh well can extend the lifecycle of your hoses.

In short, performing some visual inspections routinely to replace broken or worn parts, along with using quality hoses and the right hardware can help prevent breakdowns on your production line. Stick to a regular schedule of hose maintenance and you can improve your productivity for higher revenue.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jan
23

Go Blue with Cast Nylon NC-901

For commercial machinery, there are many choices in materials when creating customized parts that will be cost effective and durable. One material that is used with excellent results in cast nylon or heat stabilized nylon like NC-901. With its cobalt blue color, cast nylon NC-901 is memorable for its appearance, but it is valued for in attributes.

Benefits of Cast Nylon NC-901

Cast nylon is an excellent material when you want to avoid metal-on-metal contact in machinery. It is often used in bearings, bushings, gears, wheels and rollers in industrial applications. There are many benefits to using cast nylon over other materials, including:

  • Sizable and versatile. Cast nylon can be formed into almost any size, even items like small screws. Even when created for thin parts, there is not internal degradation.
  • Heat resistant. Cast nylon is heat stabilized up to 260 degrees, making it a good choice for high-heat or friction applications.
  • Durable. NC-901 is impact, vibration and abrasion resistant, with durable qualities that help it perform in commercial environments under excess stress. It also is resistant to brittleness and quick deterioration.
  • Machinable. Parts can easily be machined from cast nylon, including screws, bearings, gears, wear pads, conveyor rollers and more.

One consideration with blue cast nylon is water submerging. While cast nylon can be used in water applications, it can absorb water and expand. It is important to consider the size change when used in submerged or in wet conditions.

If you are looking for a durable, versatile material that is easily machinable for your industrial equipment, consider cast nylon NC-901. Talk to your industrial material supplier to learn more about the options in customization of this unique material.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

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