Quality of hydraulic hoses with reduced service life

The impact of using rubber hydraulic hoses with a shortened service life on environmental pollution has not yet been raised in the scientific national literature. Most researchers focus on the analysis of used engine oils or contaminated fluid in hydraulic systems, rather than on their direct environmental impact. For some time now, the European market has seen an increase in imports of cheap rubber hydraulic hoses from countries outside the Community. There is a potential risk of negative environmental impacts from the use of these hoses if they do not meet appropriate quality standards. The study examined samples of hydraulic hoses purchased directly from the manufacturers or traders of rubber hydraulic hoses from countries outside the European Union. The products were tested for compliance with PN-EN 853:2015-05 and PN-EN 857:2015-05. Out of 14 fully tested hydraulic hoses, only 2 were found to comply with the applicable European standards. The results encourage further research to determine the impact of rubber hydraulic hoses with reduced service life on environmental and economic costs.