4 Important Components of a Flexible Hose
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 that comprises the hose. As leading providers of quality flexible hoses for all types of industries and materials, the team at Flextech Industries understands the complexities of hose assemblies. That is why our team has put together a list of 4 important components of a flexible hose to help you understand what each component does and determine which hose is right for your operation.
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What is Inside a Flexible Hose?
Most flexible hoses contain the following components:
1. Corrugated Tubing
The corrugated tubing is the core component of a flexible metal hose. It comprises the bulk of each assembly while determining attributes such as corrosion resistance, pressure rating, and flexibility. Certain corrugated tubing products feature higher attributes than others, so it is important to determine which specifications are required for your needs. For example, you may only need a hose with a high pressure rating instead of a hose with added corrosion resistance. By determining what you need for your operation, you can potentially reduce costs without compromising the safety or longevity of your transfer system.
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2. Braid
The braid covers the corrugated tubing, directly influencing pressure rating. Many factors 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.
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3. Braid Collar
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.
4. End Fittings
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.
Learn more about what is inside a flexible hose.
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.