Test mandrels
A test mandrel is an indispensable testing and inspection tool for quality assurance in hydraulic hose and fitting assembly. It allows you to check whether the press connection between the hose, fitting and socket has been made correctly – in particular, the so-called ‘nipple collapse’. Without this check, there is a risk of leaks, failures or safety hazards. Put your trust in our tested test mandrels from Valcon® – precisely designed for hydraulic fitting assembly and available online now.
What is a Test Mandrel in Hydraulics?
A test mandrel (often called calibration mandrel or control mandrel) is the decisive tool for quality assurance after hose assembly. It serves to check for the so-called "nipple collapse".
During the crimping of a hose assembly, enormous radial forces act on the fitting. If crimped too hard, the nipple deforms inwards and constricts the cross-section. The test mandrel is a precise measuring instrument ("Go/No-Go Gauge") that is inserted into the nipple to ensure that the inner diameter has remained within the permissible tolerance.
Advantages of Our Valcon® Test Mandrels
Blind reliance on table values is not enough in safety hydraulics. Our test mandrels give you the certainty that your line delivers full performance.
Why this QA step is indispensable:
- Prevention of Performance Loss: A nipple that has collapsed too much acts like a throttle. It creates turbulence and heat, which lowers the efficiency of the entire system.
- Safety: Excessive deformation can lead to hairline cracks in the material and thus to the tearing off of the fitting. The mandrel detects these assembly errors.
- System Coordination: Our mandrels are exactly matched to the geometry of Valcon® fittings for reliable results.
Typical Areas of Application for the Test Mandrel
The test mandrel is part of the standard equipment of every certified hose workshop. It is used where professionalism is required:
- Series Production: Random checking during the production of large quantities (OEM).
- Hose Service: Documentation of assembly quality towards the customer.
- Setup Process: Determination of the optimal crimp dimension when setting up the hose press for new batches.
Selection Criteria & Technical Data
A test mandrel is not a universal tool. It must fit the fitting series exactly.
Pay attention to the following points when selecting:
- Nominal Size (DN): Choose the mandrel matching the hose size (e.g., DN06, DN10, DN25).
- Fitting Type: Since wall thicknesses can vary, ideally use Valcon® mandrels for Valcon® nipples.
- Tolerance Field: The mandrel has a defined "Go" dimension. After crimping, it must be possible to push it through the nipple smoothly but without force.
Pro Tip: Use the test mandrel daily to calibrate your hose press to detect wear on the crimping dies at an early stage.
Select & Order Test Mandrel Now
Deliver tested quality instead of risk. Supplement your workshop equipment with the matching test mandrels from LöSi®.
Benefit from technical advice on correct application. Select the required nominal sizes now and order your QA tools directly online!
