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Stainless
Steel Aircraft Braided Hose Assembly Tips
Here's
what works best for me to assemble S/S braided lines with
reusable AN fittings.
Be
sure to review your pressure requirements, temperature range,
and fluid compatibility to ensure the hose you select will
properly handle the job.
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Wrap
with duct tape or electricians tape where you'll make
your cut (to keep it from fraying during cutting and
assembly).
I
use my band saw to cut to length. A piece of angle iron
(clamped against the blade) makes a steady guide to
hold the hose during cutting.
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Next
I gently feather the inside liner with an exacto knife
to remove any burrs.
Then
I ensure the liner is round by gently shaping it with
my needle-nose pliers.
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Ensure
the liner has no frays on the outside. I use my heavy
scissors (carpet shears) to trim and 'even up' the stainless
steel braids around the outside.
Then
slip the nut over the hose.
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Push
the nut up past the tape.
Carefully
unwind and remove the tape without letting the stainless
steel braid unravel.
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Carefully
separate the steel braid around the edge of the hose
liner. This is where the tapered cone will slip in.
Gently
slip the tapered cone in place. Ensure it is slipped
over the outside of the liner and is not cutting into
it.
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Push
it down against the bench to ensure it is seated all
the way.
Gently
feather off any rough edges on the inside liner to ensure
the next piece will slip inside.
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Insert
the outer fitting shell.
Carefully
make sure it's seated all the way in.
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Run
the nut down onto the threads making sure you don't
'cross thread' it.
Tighten
the nut with a socket and wrench without distorting
it.
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Another
trick you can use is to clamp a six-point deep socket
in the vice to hold the large nut, then use a wrench
or crows-foot to tighten the nut without distorting
it.
Here's
the finished product. These ends can be reused many
times.
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I'm
sure there are other ways to assemble stainless steel braided
hoses, but I've found this procedure works well for me.
Be
sure to pressure test all hoses, especially those used for
critical and hazardous areas (lube oil, fuel, etc.) to ensure
there are no leaks.
Ensure
the hose is properly flushed out to prevent system contamination.
More
references.
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