Hey there! As a hydraulic fitting supplier, I’ve seen my fair share of materials in the game. We all know that choosing the right materials for hydraulic fittings is super important. A wrong choice can lead to all sorts of problems, like leaks, failures, and even safety hazards. So, today, I’m gonna talk about the materials that are not suitable for hydraulic fittings. Hydraulic Fitting

First off, let’s talk about plastics that are not engineered for high – pressure applications. Regular plastics, like the ones you see in cheap household items, are a big no – no. These plastics just can’t handle the high pressures that hydraulic systems often operate under. For example, a simple polyethylene plastic might be great for making grocery bags, but it’ll crack and break in a hydraulic system in no time. The pressure in hydraulic systems can be really intense, sometimes reaching thousands of pounds per square inch (psi). Regular plastics don’t have the strength or the durability to withstand such forces. They’ll start to deform, and before you know it, you’ll have a leaky mess on your hands.
Another material that’s not a good fit is low – grade cast iron. Now, cast iron can be a great material in some cases, but low – grade cast iron has its flaws when it comes to hydraulic fittings. It’s prone to porosity, which means there are tiny holes in the material. These pores can allow hydraulic fluid to seep through, leading to leaks. And once a leak starts, it can get worse over time, causing a loss of pressure in the system and potentially damaging other components. Also, low – grade cast iron is brittle. In a hydraulic system, there can be vibrations and sudden pressure changes. A brittle material like this is more likely to crack under stress, which can lead to a complete failure of the fitting.
Galvanized steel that’s not properly treated is also on the list of unsuitable materials. Galvanization is a process where a layer of zinc is applied to steel to prevent rusting. But if the galvanization process isn’t done right, or if the zinc coating is too thin, it won’t provide adequate protection. In a hydraulic environment, the fluid can corrode the steel if the zinc layer is compromised. And corrosion is a major enemy of hydraulic fittings. It weakens the material, can cause blockages in the system if the corroded particles break off, and ultimately leads to the failure of the fitting.
Some soft metals, like pure aluminum, are not ideal either. While aluminum is lightweight and has some great properties, pure aluminum is too soft for most hydraulic applications. It can easily get scratched or dented during installation or normal operation. These scratches and dents can disrupt the flow of hydraulic fluid and create weak points in the fitting. Over time, these weak points can lead to leaks or even a complete breakdown of the fitting.
Another material to avoid is certain types of rubber that aren’t designed for hydraulic use. There are a lot of different rubbers out there, and not all of them can handle the chemicals and pressures in a hydraulic system. For example, natural rubber is very sensitive to oil and hydraulic fluids. When it comes into contact with these substances, it can swell, degrade, and lose its elasticity. This can cause seals to fail, which is a major problem in hydraulic fittings as seals are crucial for preventing leaks.
Now, you might be wondering why these materials are sometimes still used. Well, cost is often a big factor. Some manufacturers might try to cut corners by using cheaper, less suitable materials to make their products more affordable. But in the long run, this can end up costing more. You’ll have to deal with frequent repairs, replacements, and potential downtime for your equipment.
As a hydraulic fitting supplier, I always recommend using high – quality, suitable materials for your hydraulic systems. We offer a wide range of fittings made from top – notch materials like high – grade stainless steel, brass, and engineered plastics that are specifically designed for hydraulic applications. These materials are strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion and high pressures.

If you’re in the market for hydraulic fittings, don’t take chances with the wrong materials. We’ve got the expertise and the products to meet your needs. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or a large industrial application, we can help you find the right fittings. So, if you’re interested in learning more or making a purchase, just reach out to us. We’re here to answer all your questions and get you the best hydraulic fittings for your money.
Hydraulic Fitting References:
- "Hydraulic Systems Handbook" by an industry expert in hydraulic engineering.
- Technical bulletins from major manufacturers of hydraulic components.
Zhuji Feike Machinery Parts Co., Ltd.
With abundant experience, we are one of the most professional hydraulic fitting manufacturers in China. We warmly welcome you to wholesale discount hydraulic fitting made in China here from our factory. All customized products are with high quality and competitive price.
Address: No.28 Yangyan Road, Diankou Industrial Area, Zhuji City, Zhejiang China
E-mail: fk@zj-fk.com
WebSite: https://www.zjfeike.com/