Flexible hoses are commonly used in a variety of industries to transport materials such as fuel, chemicals, water, and steam. Though most flexible hoses have a similar appearance, there are many different options in terms of size, thickness, and the dimensions of each component. As leading providers of flexible hoses for all types of industries and materials, the team at Flextech Industries understands the complexities of hose assemblies. That is why we have provided some information outlining what is inside a flexible hose to help owners understand how they work and how to choose the right option.
Learn about the importance of choosing the right flexible hose.
Most flexible hoses contain the following components:
The corrugated tubing is the core component of a flexible metal hose. It comprises the bulk of each assembly while playing a part in key value-added attributes such as corrosion resistance, pressure rating, and flexibility. All corrugated tubing options feature different corrosion resistance ratings, pressure ratings, and levels of flexibility. This makes corrugated tubing the most important part of every flexible hose.
The second component of metal hoses is the braid. The braid covers the corrugated tubing, directly influencing pressure rating. There are many factors that affect the durability and flexibility of each braid including the wire diameter, the number of wires per carrier, and the percentage of braid coverage. Choosing the right braid configuration is crucial for protecting the hose from deformation and ensuring a long usable life.
Though they only account for a small portion of the hose assembly, braid collars play a vital role. All braid collars are designed to join the inner corrugated hose and the braid together into one seamless unit. Each collar also works to ensure that any bending stress is properly distributed over the right corrugations, optimizing the functionality and durability of each assembly.
The final component added to an assembly is the fittings. These components allow the flexible hose assembly to fit into a certain connector, spigot, or other receptacle. To ensure the best possible fit, all end fittings should be thoroughly examined to verify that the size, alloy, and pressure ratings match the requirements of the application.
To learn more about our selection of flexible hoses and other specialty products, get in touch with the team at Flextech Industries. We can be reached through our online contact form and will work with you to provide the perfect solution for your needs.