Spring is rapidly approaching in Houston, Texas. While it brings warmer temperatures, it is also a time for heavy rains and severe weather in this area. Here are practical steps to safeguard your hose assemblies from flooding before the spring storms come into play. Determine Which Areas on Your Sites Are Vulnerable to Flooding If you are working at a new site, you can utilize tools like community records and FEMA’s Flood Map to assess the area’s flood risk. Also, note any low-lying areas on the site where water tends to collect during rain. Also, note which areas are slowest to drain or will require additional equipment to drain in the event of a flood. Elevate Equipment and Parts Inventory Store hose assemblies and related equipment in elevated locations to minimize water exposure. Before the spring storms start, make sure your equipment is positioned out of flash floods and the average flood levels for the area. Utilize elevated platforms, racks, or shelves to keep hoses and fittings above potential flood levels. Designate storage areas away from flood-prone zones Check to ensure all equipment is above areas that collect water, especially any new equipment or assemblies. Keep hoses and pipelines that can not be waterproofed above ground level. Install hangers, clamps, or supports to secure hoses along walls, ceilings, or elevated structures. Make sure they are secured against heavy wind gusts over 35 mph to avoid kinking, scraping, and other wear on suspended parts during heavy weather fronts and other storms. Waterproof Storage Containers Water and humidity can shorten the life of your spare parts and contaminate the hoses with mold, silt, and other materials. Utilize waterproof storage containers or cabinets to protect your inventory. Ensure containers are securely sealed to withstand heavy rainfall and potential flooding.  Invest in Flood Barriers When necessary, install flood barriers, berms, or containment walls to divert water away from critical areas of your sites. You can also store sandbags, concrete blocks, or water-inflated flood barriers to quickly create barriers against rising water levels. Regularly inspect and maintain flood barriers and related equipment to ensure they are ready for severe weather events. Make Sure Drainage Systems are Clear Clear debris, sediment, and vegetation from drains, gutters, and culverts to prevent blockages and facilitate unobstructed water flow. If any drainage areas seem sluggish, prioritize inspections and repairs in those areas. Update Your Emergency Response Planning Develop or update your comprehensive emergency response plan so the entire staff and team know what to do and who to turn to during extreme weather events. Define roles and responsibilities for personnel during a flooding event, including electrical safety, shutdown, and evacuation procedures. Establish communication channels and make sure all contact information is up-to-date. Delays due to outdated numbers can be costly. Conduct regular training exercises and drills to ensure employees are prepared to respond effectively during flooding incidents. Make sure safety and first aid equipment is inspected and ready for use. Action Supply Has Helped Industrial Sites Stay Equipped since 1981 Don’t let a flood get in the way of your site’s processes. Our experts have decades of local experience on the best ways to protect your inventory from flooding incidents, and our inventory management service ensures you have the parts you need when you need them. Contact us today!

Hydraulic hose leaks can lead to downtime, costly repairs, and safety hazards. Here is how your team can effectively detect and fix hydraulic hose leaks before they become a large issue. Detecting Hydraulic Hose Leaks Detecting a leak early is critical to reducing the overall costs of cleanup, repairs, downtime, and safety hazards. Here are a few ways to actively monitor your systems for the first signs of a leak and ways to pinpoint its location. Auditory Inspection Sometimes, you can detect leaks by listening for unusual sounds. These include: Hissing or whistling sounds near the hoses that indicate something escaping from a small opening. Ticking, rumbles, or high-pitched whining from the machines as air enters or fluid levels fall. If needed, you can use equipment that amplifies sound to help make detection easier. Visual Inspection Look for oil spots, puddles, or damp areas near the hoses, indicating potential leaks. Check for cracked or bulging hoses, as these are common signs of deterioration. Check fittings and joints for signs of corrosion Gently place a piece of paper or cardboard near the hoses while the system is running. If hydraulic fluid drips onto the paper, it will leave a visible stain Use a specialized fluid dye for hydraulic systems. When it passes through the hose, it will escape and make the leak points more visible. Check with our experts to make sure you use a dye compatible with your system. Pressure and Performance Testing If you notice decreased or erratic performance in the system, the most common and repairable source of this issue could be a leak. Live detection and monitoring equipment can help you catch these issues in real-time. If a leak is suspected but not visible, consider pressure testing the hydraulic system to identify the problem area. Fixing Hydraulic Hose Leaks Once you've detected a hydraulic hose leak, prompt action is essential. Here's how to fix the issue. Isolate the System Shut down the equipment or machinery and turn off the power source to prevent accidentally turning it on during repairs. Isolate the affected area and reduce the excess fluid pressure to prevent spills, puddles, and other hazards. Replace or Repair If you choose to patch a small leak with specialized epoxies or stop leak fluids, make sure to treat it as a short-term solution, as the integrity of the hose is already compromised. This should only be done to find a better downtime or to allow time for a replacement part to come in. Larger leaks need to be fully repaired to be fully safe. Replacements and repairs will depend on the location of the leak and the hydraulic system. Typically, this will involve removing the line, installing a matching line, and making sure all seals and fittings are secure.  Use high-quality replacement hoses and fittings to ensure longevity. Always follow manufacturer recommendations for hose replacement and repair. Use the correct tools and techniques to ensure a secure and leak-free connection. Contact the manufacturer or your inventory supply experts for questions, troubleshooting, and best practices. Test the Repairs After fixing the hydraulic hose, conduct a thorough test to ensure the leak is resolved. Perform regular short-term checks to ensure the repairs are successful, then regular maintenance to continue catching future issues early. Action Supply Experts Offer Inventory Management and On-Site Hose Assembly Reduce downtime and costly errors while fixing hydraulic hose leaks with our expert services. We are driven to meet and exceed industry standards with superior equipment that you can trust to perform the way you need it to every time.

Top Fleet Maintenance Tips for 2024: Keeping Your Vehicles in Prime Condition

As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we've embarked on together. It has been a year filled with challenges, triumphs, and most importantly, the unwavering support and trust you have placed in us. We want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued partnership. Throughout this year, your dedication to excellence has inspired us to push boundaries, innovate, and strive for greater heights. Your feedback and insights have been invaluable, guiding us as we navigate through the ever-evolving landscape of our industry. Looking back, we cherish the milestones we've achieved together. However, it's not just the accomplishments that define our journey; it's the relationships we've built along the way. Your support has been the cornerstone of our success, and we are honored to have you as part of our extended family. As we approach the new year, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. We are committed to strengthening our partnership further, exploring new possibilities, and continuing to provide you with exceptional service. From all of us here at Action Supply, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyous holiday season filled with peace, happiness, and prosperity. May the upcoming year be filled with success, growth, and moments that bring you immense joy. Warm Regards, Team Action Supply

It's essential to prepare the hydraulic hoses of your construction equipment for the cold season, especially if any part of your equipment will be exposed to severe winter weather and temperatures. Otherwise, you risk mechanical issues and equipment failure that result in costly repairs and downtime. Here are some steps you can take to protect your hydraulic hoses from winter weather. Inspect and Clean Hydraulic Hoses  Begin by thoroughly inspecting all hydraulic hoses to ensure they are in working order. Look for any signs of: Normal wear and tear Damage to the hoses, fittings, and fasteners Signs of incompatible fittings Leaks Kinks or too much torsion in the line Signs of abrasion from friction Inconsistent pressure or signs of blockages The hose specifications ensure that they can withstand the closest temperatures that they could possibly be exposed to. Replace or repair damaged hoses and faulty parts. Clean both new and existing hoses and connections to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants. Check Hydraulic Fluid and Lubricate Parts Cold weather can affect hydraulic fluid's viscosity, so make sure the fluid in your construction equipment is suitable for the temperature and weather conditions they will be exposed to. Consult your equipment's manual or supplier for specific recommendations. Proper lubrication is vital in cold weather to keep your construction equipment working smoothly. Lubricate all moving parts, such as joints, pistons, and cylinders, according to manufacturer instructions for winter weather. Replace any parts that may not be suitable for freezing temperatures, ice, and other environmental factors. These steps will prevent parts from freezing and seizing up in the cold. Protect Exposed Hoses Exposed hydraulic hoses are susceptible to freezing and damage in winter. Their porous surfaces can become brittle and crack as they are exposed to extreme or fluctuating temperatures. To prevent cracks and leaks: Use insulated wraps and sleeves to create a barrier between exposed pipes and winter weather. When feasible, use temporary shelters or outdoor heaters during unusual weather patterns to protect vulnerable areas. Make sure they are sheltered from heavy snow and ice deposits that could put extra strain on their fasteners and lower their fluid temperatures. Inspect any exposed and sleeved pipes after extreme weather storms. If possible, actively monitor fluid temperatures for signs the hydraulic hoses are compromised. These protective measures will maintain the hoses' flexibility and prevent cracking. Run and Shelter Equipment and Spare Parts Letting equipment and hoses sit unused in freezing conditions risks frozen parts, ice buildup, blockages, and other issues. Store your spare parts and unused construction equipment in a dry, climate-controlled indoor space. Extra care of resting equipment is necessary to prevent hydraulic fluid from becoming too thick and sluggish in cold temperatures. Start and run your equipment regularly, even if you do not plan to use it immediately. Before using equipment that sat unused in the cold, run it for about an hour to warm the parts and fluid before using. Be Prepared for Emergencies Despite your best efforts, emergencies can still happen in winter. Always have a cold-weather emergency kit on hand, including spare hydraulic hoses, hydraulic fluid, and necessary tools for quick repairs. Also, make sure you have a supplier who can provide expert advice and parts fast. Let Action Supply Help You Winterize Your Hydraulic Construction Equipment Action Supply’s representatives are committed to taking the stress off your shoulders. Our inventory management ensures you always have the part you need, and we will even assemble the hoses on-site for you. Contact us today to make sure your hydraulic lines are fully winterized.

Industrial hoses play a critical role in various applications across multiple sectors, and their efficiency and safety are heavily dependent on their fittings. Proper hose fittings are not a small concern on your work site. Using incompatible fittings by choice or due to an error can pose significant safety risks like Spills and Environmental Hazards Damage to nearby Equipment Slips, chemical burns, poor air quality, and other workplace hazards Downtime and Operational Delays Here are some ways to recognize incompatible fittings before they cause larger problems, and things to consider when choosing their replacements. Recognizing the Signs of Incompatible Fittings Incompatible industrial hose fittings can lead to several noticeable problems. Being aware of the signs can help prevent or mitigate potential issues before they escalate into larger problems. Leakages . One of the most apparent signs of an incompatible fitting is leakage around the fitting site. When the hose and fitting don't match, there might be gaps that allow the transported material to escape. Loose Connections . If the fittings are not designed for a particular hose, they might not secure properly. This can result in the fitting coming off under pressure, leading to loss of material and workplace hazards. Visible Wear and Tear . Incompatible fittings can corrode from exposure to the fluids or cause accelerated wear and tear at the connection points. Over time, this can lead to cracks, splits, or deformities in the hose. Inconsistent Flow Rate . Loose connections can cause the material to slow at a sub-optimal rate, cause random surges, or slow and block the flow altogether. If you find the flow rate is fluctuating without explanation, it may be time to check the fittings for issues. How to Choose the Right Fittings for Specific Hoses For industrial hoses to function properly, the correct fittings are essential. Here are some essential factors to consider: Hose Specifications. Make sure the fitting matches the hose’s inner and outer diameter and that it has an adequate pressure rating to meet operational demands. Application Needs . Gases may require different fittings from fluid materials. In addition, the operating temperature range, the temperature of the materials, and the route the materials will take all determine the best fitting type and function. Manufacturer's Guidelines . Manufacturers provide tested and proven fitting recommendations. Using these guidelines ensures an optimized fit and can extend the hose's operational lifespan. Material . Some materials corrode or create chemical reactions when exposed to specific materials within the hoses. This can lead to breaks, leaks, or contamination of the transported material. Make sure you use fittings made to safely transport the intended fluid or gas to avoid these issues. Connection Type . Crimps are designed to offer a permanent bond between the hose and fitting, while push-on connections offer easy assembly for low-pressure applications. Flange assemblies are made for larger hoses and high-pressure situations. Barbed and threaded couplings also offer their unique advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type of fitting is critical for the effectiveness and longevity of your system. Action Supply Ensures You Always Have the Right Fittings For Your Industrial Hose Line Our account representatives are committed to taking the stress off your shoulders. We make sure the exact industrial supplies you need are always available. They will be stocked, organized, and easily accessible whenever you need them. Contact us today to ensure you always have the hoses and fittings you need. 

Hydraulic hoses can be sensitive to environmental conditions, especially in extreme temperatures and seasonal changes. Among the most influential factors on their performance and lifespan is temperature. If you want to ensure the long-term efficiency and safety of your hydraulic systems, it is essential to understand how temperature affects the hose and its contents. Here are some things to consider and their solutions. Temperatures Cause Material Expansion and Contraction All materials expand or contract as their temperatures change, and the type of material affects how well the hose can endure these changes. If a hose is exposed to temperatures beyond its design specifications, it can lead to a large range of problems, including: Fluid pressure issues Broken seals Burst hoses Leaks System failures To avoid this issue, make sure the hydraulic hoses in your system are made to withstand the high and low-temperature ranges they will be subjected to by both the fluid and the environment. The hose manufacturer or your inventory supplier should be able to help you evaluate the hose and any recommended replacements. Decreased Flexibility in Winter Temperatures In extremely cold conditions, hydraulic hoses can permanently become less flexible and brittle as they freeze and rewarm. This loss of flexibility can make the hose more susceptible to cracking or breaking, broken seals, and compromised attachments. To minimize these issues, you can: Use protective sleeves Keep weather-appropriate barriers between the hoses and the environment Store extra hoses in climate-controlled areas away from the sun and weather elements Install and maintain hydraulic hoses based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Fluid Viscosity Changes With Extreme Temperatures Hydraulic fluid relies on a specific viscosity to function effectively. Extreme temperatures can thin or thicken the hydraulic fluid beyond its intended viscosity. This can decrease the efficiency of the hydraulic system, strain the hoses and seals, reduce lubrication of critical parts, and risk damage to the entire system. When extreme temperatures hit, you may need to use additives to keep the fluids at their ideal viscosity. Also, try to avoid areas that are exposed to extreme heat or cold when routing the hoses. To ensure the longevity and efficiency of your hydraulic systems, it's essential to be aware of the effects of temperatures on hydraulic hoses. Selecting the right hose for the expected temperature range, conducting regular inspections, and implementing proper maintenance practices can mitigate potential issues. If in doubt, check with the manufacturer or your supplier for the best recommendations. Let Action Supply Manage Your Hydraulic Hose Inventory Action Supply is committed to taking the stress of having the right part when you need it off your shoulders. Our inventory management service experts make sure the parts are always stocked, organized, and easily accessible when you need them. Contact us today to find out how we can tailor your inventory management system, so you can focus on other aspects of your business.

Discover key factors for choosing the right industrial hose: size, temperature resistance, application compatibility, pressure rating, hose ends, and supplier reliability. Optimize operations with expert insights.

Proper PPE is necessary in the summer heat, especially in Southeast Texas. Action Supply has all you need to ensure proper precautions are met for your team.