Parker 518D hydraulic hose cutaway showing thermoplastic core and fiber reinforcement.

When working near overhead power lines, choosing the right hydraulic components is an important part of equipment safety. For electrical utilities, tree service providers, and other professionals operating aerial equipment, hydraulic hoses must meet the demands of the application while addressing potential electrical hazards.

The Parker 518D Non-Conductive Thermoplastic Hydraulic Hose is designed for hydraulic systems where electrical non-conductivity is essential. Its specialized construction makes it a solution for bucket trucks, aerial lifts, and other applications where conductive hydraulic hose is unsuitable.

Designed for Applications Where Electrical Safety Matters

Bucket trucks and aerial lifts allow workers to reach elevated work areas, including locations near energized power lines. In these environments, selecting hydraulic components designed for the application is a critical consideration.

Parker's 518D hose is engineered for hydraulic circuits requiring electrical non-conductivity. Its design helps prevent the hose itself from becoming a conductive path, making it particularly relevant for equipment used by electrical utility crews and tree care professionals.

Common applications include:

  • Electrical utility equipment used for overhead line work
  • Tree service bucket trucks operating near power lines
  • Aerial lifts and mobile hydraulic equipment
  • Other hydraulic systems requiring non-conductive hose

Non-conductive hose is one component of an overall safety system. It does not make a bucket truck, aerial lift, or operator safe from contact with energized power lines. Equipment insulation, inspection, safe work practices, and applicable electrical safety requirements remain essential.

Explore the Parker 518D

SAFETY

The 518D is designed for hydraulic applications requiring electrical non-conductivity. Its bright orange polyurethane cover helps distinguish it from conventional hydraulic hose and identify its intended use.

CONSTRUCTION

The 518D combines a thermoplastic inner tube, synthetic fiber reinforcement, and a polyurethane cover. This construction supports pressure performance, resistance to fluid permeation, and abrasion resistance. For -4 hose, Parker specifies a high-density braid and heavier polyurethane cover.

COMPATIBILITY

The hose is compatible with Parker's 56 Series hose fittings. Selected configurations are also approved for Parker 51R Series field-attachable and rapid-assembly connections. Compatible Parker crimping equipment can be used when the correct hose, fitting, die, and crimp specifications are followed.

OPERATING LIMITS

The 518D is available in nominal inside diameters from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. Its temperature and pressure limits vary by size and service conditions. For synthetic, synthetic-blend, water, and water/oil emulsion hydraulic fluids, the maximum temperature is 135°F (57°C). Consult Parker's current product specifications to verify pressure ratings, fluid compatibility, and other application requirements.

 

Recognizable Design for Demanding Environments

The 518D's bright orange cover provides a distinctive visual identifier for non-conductive hose. Its polyurethane construction also helps resist abrasion, supporting use in demanding mobile equipment environments.

Additional features include:

Resistance to fluid permeation: The nylon inner tube provides resistance to permeable fluids in most sizes. The -16 size uses a copolyester tube.

Flexible hose routing: Thermoplastic construction can help accommodate equipment layouts where routing space is limited.

Twin-line and multi-line options: Available bonded configurations can help organize hydraulic lines and support installation requirements.

Abrasion-resistant cover: The polyurethane jacket helps protect the hose against wear associated with equipment use.

For -4 construction, Parker specifies a compact, high-density reinforcement braid and a heavier polyurethane cover to improve abrasion resistance and separation between bonded twin-line or multi-line assemblies.

Parker 518D: Key Specifications

The 518D meets SAE J517 100R7 requirements and is available across a range of hose sizes. Because pressure ratings and certain operating limits vary by size, always consult Parker's current technical documentation before selecting a hose for a specific system.

Key specifications to consider include:

  • Hose type: Non-conductive thermoplastic hydraulic hose
  • Nominal inside diameter: 1/8 inch to 1 inch
  • Temperature range: -40°F to 212°F, subject to size and fluid limitations
  • Maximum temperature for specified water-based and synthetic fluids: 135°F (57°C)
  • Cover material: Polyurethane
  • Reinforcement: Synthetic fiber braid
  • Cover color: Orange
  • Vacuum rating: Up to 28 inHg, subject to Parker's application specifications

The correct hose size, working pressure, fluid, temperature, and fitting combination should be verified for every application.

Fitting Compatibility and Assembly

Selecting the right hose is only part of building a reliable hydraulic assembly. Proper fitting selection and assembly procedures are equally important.

Parker's 518D can be coupled with its 56 Series hose fittings. Certain sizes are also approved for 51R Series field-attachable and rapid-assembly connections. Compatibility depends on the specific hose size and fitting configuration.

The hose can be assembled using compatible Parker crimping equipment and the appropriate crimp specifications. Before assembly, consult Parker's current documentation to confirm the approved fitting, die, crimp setting, and assembly procedure.

Following the manufacturer's recommendations helps ensure the finished assembly is appropriate for the intended operating conditions.

Find the Right Hydraulic Hose for Your Application

When hydraulic equipment operates near electrical hazards, hose selection requires careful consideration of both hydraulic performance and electrical safety requirements. Parker's 518D provides a purpose-designed non-conductive option for aerial equipment and other applications where conductive hose is unsuitable.

Triad Technologies partners with Parker Hannifin to help customers identify hydraulic hose and fitting solutions for their equipment. Whether you're specifying a new hose assembly or evaluating components for existing equipment, Triad can help you explore the available options.

Contact Triad Technologies to discuss your application and find the right Parker hydraulic hose solution for your needs.