2022 PRODUCTS CATALOG - INDUSTRIAL HOSE, COUPLINGS AND EQUIPMENT

STORAGE Rubber hose products in storage can be affected adversely by temperature, humidity, ozone, sunlight, oils, solvents, corrosive liquids and fumes, insects, rodents and radioactive materials. The appropriate method for storing hose depends to a great extent on its size (diameter and length), the quantity to be stored and the way in which it is packaged. Hose should not be piled or stacked to such an extent that the weight of the stack creates distortions on the length stored at the bottom. Since hose products vary considerably in size, weight and length, it is not practical to establish definite recommendations on this point. Hose having a very light wall will not support as much load as could a hose having a heavier wall or hose having a wire reinforcement. Hose which is shipped in coils or bales should be stored so that the coils are in a horizontal plane. Whenever feasible, rubber hose products should be stored in their original shipping containers, especially when such containers are wooden crates or cardboard cartons which provide some protection against the deteriorating effects of oils, solvents and corrosive liquids; shipping containers also afford some protection against ozone and sunlight. Certain rodents and insects will damage rubber hose products and adequate protection from them should be provided. Cotton jacketed hose should be protected against fungal growths if the hose is to be stored for prolonged periods in humid conditions in excess of 70 percent. The ideal temperature for the storage of rubber products ranges for 50º to 70ºF (10-21ºC) with a maximum limit of 100ºF (38ºC). If stored below 32ºF (0ºC), some rubber products become stiff and would require warming before being placed in service. Rubber products should not be stored near sources of heat, such as radiators, base heaters, etc., nor should they be stored under conditions of high or low humidity. To avoid the adverse effects of high ozone concentration, rubber hose products should not be stored near electrical equipment that may generate ozone or be stored for any lengthy period in geographical areas of known high ozone concentration. Hose should not be stored in locations where the ozone level exceeds the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health’s upper limits of 0.10 ppm. Exposure to direct or reflected sunlight – even through windows – should also be avoided. Uncovered hose should not be stored under fluorescent or mercury lamps which generate light waves harmful to rubber. Storage areas should be relatively cool and dark, and free of dampness and mildew. Items should be stored on a first-in, first-out basis, since even under the best of conditions, an unusually long shelf life could deteriorate certain rubber products. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF HOSE . GATES INDUSTRIAL HOSE PRODUCTS www.gates.com 33