Are aluminum fittings okay in a 1500psi hydraulic system?

[matt2491]

I am putting together a relatively simple hydraulics system. The system will be powered from a GM Type II automotive power steering pump that generates no more than 1500psi. Are aluminum adapters & fittings okay to use at this pressure? Some of the adapters I need come from the automotive world and are only available in aluminum.

 

[dfkrug]

If they are rated for that kind of pressure, they are OK.

In the automotive world, they often use "AN" fittings, which fit JIC fittings in the hydraulic world.

I use a power steering vane pump and a one-spool hyd valve to power my hyd dump bed on my Suzuki
Samurai. I get only 1400 psi, and may modify to get 1600. One of my fittings is type "AN".

 

[matt2491]

Thanks for your reply.

What if they have no rating? Risky to use?

For example, I'd really like to use this -8 to dual -6 Y-adapter made by Vibrant:



There is no published pressure rating, but it would fit perfectly in my system to split a pressure line feeding two cylinders mounted next to each other. Just wondering if I'm asking for trouble.

 

[kennyd]

I'd use it...as long as it's machined and not cast-which it looks like it is (machined that is).

 

[mrmikey]

I'd be using it also. If you are worried about a possible burst, cover it with a heavy canvas and zip tie it around the fitting. May not look the best but it'll prevent a spray of fluid getting somebody.........Mike

 

[PILOON]

Aviation uses a lot of aluminum fittings but then there are many grades of aluminum*.

Two standards exist, the original was T series while current nomenclatures is NAS.

*T1 - T6 with T1 being soft and T6 very stiff and actually quite brittle but very strong.
T6 machines nicely but don't try to form it on a brake.

 

[matt2491]

I'll give it a shot! Thanks for everyone's input.