What is the minimum bursting safety factor for non-critical components in hydraulic equipment?

The minimum bursting safety factor for non-critical components in hydraulic equipment is set at a ratio of 2 to 1. This means that the maximum expected pressure that the component will face during operation should not exceed half of its maximum bursting pressure.

The reasoning behind this safety factor involves the assurance that even in unexpected or suboptimal operating conditions, the hydraulic components will remain safe and functional. By maintaining a 2 to 1 safety factor, this provides a margin that accounts for degradation over time, variations in manufacturing processes, and unforeseen environmental influences.

While options such as 1 to 1 might suggest allowing components to operate at their maximum rated capacity without any safety buffer, this approach increases the risk of failure and accidents. Similarly, factors like 3 to 1 or 4 to 1, while providing even higher safety margins, may be considered excessive for non-critical components, leading to unnecessary costs or weight increases in the hydraulic systems. Thus, the 2 to 1 safety factor is an appropriate balance of safety and practicality for non-critical hydraulic equipment.