Due to its scale and complexity, petrochemical refineries have many potential safety hazards, one of which is rubber steam hose, which has many hidden risks. If the steam hose assembly fails, it may cause fatal danger to undefended workers.
Three steps to improving steam hose safety:
Determine what type of fittings are currently installed on your steam hoses
Traditionally, rubber steam hose assemblies are manufactured using reinstallable accessories that are installed using external bolt-fixing fixtures.
Now the hydraulic permanent crimping parts installed by the high-pressure hydraulic crimping machine are used to manufacture rubber steam hose assemblies.
Be aware of the significant differences in the two types of steam hose assemblies
the components (hose, fittings, clamps) are usually produced by different manufacturers.
are attached by clamps that do not have contact with the entire circumference of the hose.
because the hose is constantly expanding and contracting, the fittings/clamps need frequent maintenance.
require a visual inspection, tightening of the clamps using proper torque settings, etc.
clamps are heavy and bulky and present a tripping/bumping hazard.
over time, the clamps can no longer be tightened as much as needed, undermining the efficiency and safety of the hose assembly and requiring premature rework or replacement.
Hose assemblies using permanent crimped-on fittings
The components may or may not be produced by the same manufacturer (if different, these components may not have been tested/certified as a real system).
No adjustment is required; they withstand the expansion and contraction of the hose during the life of the hose.
Provides equal grip on the entire circumference of the hose.
It is not easy to leak at the hose/connector interface.
Simplified operation and no danger of tripping/collision.