There are several options on the market for you to choose from when it comes to flexible hoses.
Composite hoses are popular preferences across many industries – they’re safe, reliable and extremely versatile. These aspects (along with others) make them the perfect choice for a variety of uses.
But which composite hose is best?
What are composite hoses?
As their name suggests, composite hoses are made from a blend of different materials.
Designed to carry a range of fluids – including fuels, oils, and liquid chemicals – they’re made by first making a spiral of strong durable wire, then wrapping layers of a polymer, film or fabric over it before finally binding the new hose in a second spiral of strong wire.
Usually, this is made of:
- Galvanised steel
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
- Polymer coated steel
The combination of wire variety and polymer variety makes a composite hose more adaptable and more suited to bespoke applications than any other type of hose on the market.
Which type of composite hose is best?
The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing the ‘best’ composite hose.
A composite hose’s properties change depending on the materials they’re constructed from, meaning different hoses are better suited to different environments.
The good news is, though, the variety of material combinations available make these hoses more adaptable than any other type. Composite hose pipes can be tailored to suit your application and environment, in regard to the fluid that needs to be carried, the specific pressure, temperature, and mechanical requirements like length and durability.
It’s important to note that usage limitations will vary as a result of the material you use, so it’s important to do your research to ensure your composite hose will be fit for its purpose.
Take a stainless steel hose, for example. They’re excellent for projects that require temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, or a flexible hose that can take on pressure.
These are often used in automation and petrochemical industries. And because they protect against corrosion, pressure and heat – they’re ideal for carrying fuels and other hydrocarbons and lubricating oils and fuel oils – which can present some challenges to other hose types.
Make sure you choose the right composite hose
To get the job done properly, it’s important to make sure you have a proper look at the best solution for you – composite hoses aren’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ kind of product.
Once you’ve defined the qualities you’re looking for, you should be able to determine which one is perfect for you and your project requirements.
If you’re in need of assistance, any reputable flexible hose supplier will be able to help you identify the best flexible hose for your needs and answer any questions you might have.
