Hose Cutting Procedure

It is imperative that a clean, straight 90 degree cut be made on the hose end with a hose cutter designed for this purpose. A 90 degree hose end cut is the first step in insuring the proper installation of the hose fitting stem. If the hose end is cut on a "bias" or angle, the hose fitting stem barbs will not completely engage the hose inner tube. An assembly failure or fitting ejection is a possibility.

A correctly cut hose end should always be cleaned, both inside and outside. Debris from the cutting process and other potential contaminants must be removed prior to assembly otherwise system components downstream may become clogged or fouled.

Prior to assembly, a good practice is to align the fitting stem outside of the hose and place a mark on the hose indicating the end of the stem. Once the stem is inserted, this procedure provides a guide for the correct placement of a hose clamp. When using a ferrule and crimper, the crimper die engagement must be kept within the dimensional limits of the stem barbs as indicated by the mark on the hose cover. Failure to follow this guideline could result in the clamp forcing the fitting back out of the hose.

--George Shea
Dixon Valve & Coupling Co.