on-invasive, fluid detection device significantly reduces the safety risk and enables operators to isolate equipment before servicing hydraulic hose."
The device can also potentially be used to identify hoses under pressure in installations with long hose lines where the hoses are bundled and connected to different actuators and services.
The device, which is currently under development with the assistance of the Australian Coal Association Research Program, is at prototype stage and will be commencing field testing shortly. It is expected to be released to market in 2013. It is suitable for all hose brands up to SAE 100R15 and hose sizes up to 2 in. or 50.8 mm ID. It will detect pressure greater t han 20 bar (290 psi) and alert the operator.
According to the HMA, Custom Fluidpower was awarded the HMA Board Award this year because of the company’s dedication to innovation, perseverance with the manufacturing process and forward thinking and planning.
Custom Fluidpower’s Interim CEO Graeme Vennell said, “The pressure detection device is a great example of the company’s zero harm philosophy with regard to oil injection injuries and high pressure fluid safety in our industry, plus the tenacity of our engineering team to research, create, develop and be a part of the solution for industry.”
According to data from the company, fluid injection injury claims exceeded the number of electrical shock claims by nearly triple in the New South Wales Coal Industry from 2007-08 to 2010-11.
Custom Fluidpower is a wholly Australian owned company offering hydraulic, pneumatic, filtration and lubrication product sales along with complete system design, installation and commissioning, and service and repairs. Custom Fluidpower services the agricultural, aerospace, exploration, industrial, marine, mobile, mining and material handling industries Australia wide.
To receive updates about the device, visit www.custom.com.au/pdd.