Yes. The CORE hose has been tested by independent third parties according to both EN 13204 and NFPA 1936 standards. Holmatro and its local dealers can provide documentation on request.
The ability to couple and uncouple tools under flow (pump running, hose connected, but tool control handle not activated) is one of the main advantages of CORE Technology. When uncoupling under flow, the coupler's built-in automatic return valve is activated and the oil automatically returns to the pump.
As with a standard dual hose / twin line system, it is very unlikely that you will be able to disconnect the coupler under pressure (during the process of spreading, cutting, etc.). However, if by some chance you were able to disconnect under pressure, CORE Technology has the advantage of a built-in automatic return in the coupler. If a coupler is disconnected, the oil automatically returns to the pump through recirculation that removes any pressure immediately.
It is virtually impossible to make a mistake with CORE Technology system connections. Like using a fire hose or an electrical extension cord, there is a male and female end to a CORE hose. The power units have female connectors and the tools have male connectors. With only one connection per tool, there is only one way to connect the hose (The right way!).
With CORE Technology there is no need to waste time rolling the hose out before you connect it. Male and female CORE couplers swivel a full 360°. It is now possible to connect the hose to the pump and the tool while the hose is still coiled. As you advance the tool toward the action circle, the hose spins freely and uncoils while you walk, saving valuable time. If you still want to lay out the hose before you make your connections, the CORE hose is imprinted with icons indicating the direction of flow, allowing you to determine which end goes to the tool, even if you start in the middle of the hose.
The pressure and return line are both contained in the coaxial design of the hose. The pressure line is at the core, surrounded and protected by the low pressure return hose.
A CORE Technology system operates at the same pressures as a standard dual hose / twin line system. The high pressure hose is inside and protected by the the low pressure outer hose. The inner hose has a maximum working pressure of 720 bar / 10,500 psi, with a 4:1 safety factor.The outer hose is the low pressure return line, which has a maximum working pressure of 25 bar / 363 psi, with a 4:1 safety factor. However, under normal operating conditions the pressure in this hose is only a few bar / psi.
As the high pressure inner hose is inside and protected by the low pressure outer hose, it is very unlikely that it gets damaged. In the unlikely event that the inner hose is damaged, any leaks will be contained by the outer low pressure return line. When the pressure within the inner hose is released, either through a valve or a leak, the pump automatically switches back to its first stage (low pressure) and the flow circulates through the outer hose, back to the pump.
As the CORE hose is reinforced with a para-aramid fiber instead of steel wire it is not susceptible to kinking or pinholes. Therefore it will not easily get damaged. However, should you notice any damage, immediately take the hose out of service and contact Holmatro or your authorized Holmatro dealer to repair or replace is. As the outer hose is the low pressure line, a leak would pose far less risk to the user than with a traditional dual hose / twin line system.
Although the CORE hose remains effective at much longer lengths, to provide the best tool performance (considering transit and pressurization times) Holmatro recommends a maximum length of 50 m / 150”.
In most cases: Yes. Holmatro offers conversion kits for both tools and pumps. Contact Holmatro or your authorized Holmatro dealer to upgrade your equipment to a CORE system.
As with any closed hydraulic circuit, thermal expansion will cause the internal pressure to increase. Should this occur with your CORE hose, you can release the pressure using the pressure release device supplied on the power unit.