Aging and Cracking Behavior of Rubber Hose

The microscopic morphology and mechanical properties of a ruptured rubber hose were studied by super-depth three-dimensional microscope, scanning electron microscopy, energy spectrum analysis and electronic universal testing machine. The results show that there were cracks and holes in the inner and outer rubber of the hose. The tensile strength and elongation of the rubber material were obviously decreased. Ductile fracture was also found in part of the steel wires in strengthening layer, the surface and fracture were corroded, indicating that the hose lining and the outer coating of rubber had experienced serious aging, there were holes or granular decomposition, affecting the oil and water resistance of the rubber. Media and air through the rubber layer got into the reinforcement layer and reacted with the steel wires, resulting in performance decline and cracking of the wires.