Measuring the Length of a Hydraulic Hose

The measurement and specification of the length of a crimped hydraulic hose is an important perquisite to an efficient hydraulic system. Learn more about how to measure different types of hydraulic hose assemblies.

Before we begin to discuss the importance of knowing the length of a hydraulic hose and how to measure it, let's first look at some of the reasons why knowing this information is so important.

When working with hydraulic hoses in any capacity, you should know the length and dimensions because any variation in these qualities can cause problems down the road. Incorrect installation or use could result in severe damage to your equipment or even injury for yourself or others nearby.

Measuring the Length of a Crimped Hose Assembly

The overall length of the hydraulic hose assembly is measured to the sealing surface of straight fittings or to the centerline of elbow fittings.

When assembling a hose or ordering a hose assembly for your manufacturing line, it is important to note the overall length. This shouldn’t be confused with hose cut length, which is measured based on specs. 

Due to space restrictions in many hydraulic applications the overall length can be critical. For example, this information can allow you to determine if there will be enough space for your gear box and other components in your vehicle or machinery for the hose. You’ll also need to know how long your hoses are if you want them to fit inside a compartment or under an engine, as well as if they’ll reach where they need to go under normal operating conditions. 

Important Notes When Measuring Crimped Assemblies

  • Hose length will change between 2-4% under pressure.
  • Consider enough length so the hose fittings are not subject to pull-off forces when parts reach their maximum limits of travel.
  • Do not stretch hoses, this can restrict the flow of fluid.
  • Do not clamp high and low pressure hoses together.
  • Consider the system’s motion, potential vibration, and hose routing when measuring.

Specific Criteria for Measuring Crimped Hose Assemblies

LENGTH OVER NIPPLES

Male threaded ends are measured from the end of their threads.

LENGTH BETWEEN CENTER LINE OF ANGLE AND BANJO

Angled ends are measured from the center of their sealing surface.

LENGTH BETWEEN Male Nipple and Center of Female Nipple

Female treaded ends and flanged ends are measured from their sealing surface.

LENGTH BETWEEN Male Nipple and Center of Angle

Length tolerances for hose assemblies

Overall Assembly LengthTolerance
Up to 300mm (11.811"), included± 3mm (±0.118")
Over 300mm (11.811") through 450mm (17.717"), included± 5mm (±0.197")
8 Over 450mm (17.717") through 900mm (35.433"), included± 7mm (±0.276")
Over 900mm (35.433")± 1%

* When it is not specified by a customer print, the above tolerances will be applied to all hose assemblies at ProPulse. These tolerances are standard as specified by the SAE J517 standard for hydraulic hoses.

Recent Blog Posts by ProPulse:

Silver Anniversary, Golden Manufacturer

Twenty-five years ago, Schieffer Co. International opened in Peosta with just six employees in a 12,000-square-foot facility. In the two and a half decades since, the hose manufacturer has changed its name and expanded exponentially. Now known as ProPulse, a Schieffer Company, it employs 130, utilizes 130,000 square feet of space, and is celebrating its silver anniversary in March. “25 years is a long time,” said Jeff Theis, President and CEO of ProPulse, “but I believe ‘blink of an eye’ is appropriate when describing our journey.”

Read More »