Industrial Hoses

Industrial hoses ensure efficient and reliable transportation of water and other fluids across multiple applications. From construction sites and agricultural fields to chemical manufacturing plants and food processing facilities, these hoses are designed to meet the rigorous demands of high flow rates, extreme temperatures, and exposure to harsh chemicals. This article overviews the diversity of industrial hoses, exploring the different types available, their construction, applications, and the key factors to consider when selecting the right hose for specific industrial needs. With a focus on durability, performance, and safety, understanding the nuances of industrial hoses is essential for professionals seeking to optimize their operations and ensure the longevity of their equipment.

Types of industrial garden hoses

Table 1: Types of industrial hoses

Type	Construction	Application
Heavy-duty industrial rubber hoses	Thick, durable rubber; designed to resist kinking and wear	Construction sites, landscaping, and agricultural use (i.e., industrial water hose)
PVC hoses	Lighter than rubber hoses; offer good resistance to chemicals and weather	General industrial and agricultural applications, especially when chemical resistance is necessary
Reinforced hoses	Have a reinforced layer, such as wire or yarn, between layers of rubber or PVC, providing strength and pressure resistance	High-pressure water delivery applications, such as firefighting and high-pressure cleaning
Chemical-resistant hoses	Made with materials specifically for their resistance to chemicals. Chemical resistance guide	Chemical manufacturing, laboratories, industrial processes involving corrosive chemicals
High-temperature hoses	Constructed of materials that can handle heat without degrading (e.g., ceramics and metal alloys)	Industrial processes that involve hot water, steam, or hot air, such as in food processing plants or power generation facilities
Food-grade hoses	Made from materials that meet strict FDA and other regulatory standards for safety and hygiene	Essential in the food and beverage industry
Expandable hoses	Designed to expand when filled with water and contract when empty, making them highly flexible and easy to store	Light industrial uses where space is limited and ease of use is a priority
Anti-static hoses	Designed to prevent the build-up of static electricity, these hoses are made from conductive materials or have a conductive layer	Critical industries where static electricity poses a risk, such as in fuel transfer or in environments with flammable gasses or dust
Industrial vacuum hoses	Flexible and often reinforced to prevent collapse under vacuum conditions; materials vary based on application requirements	Used in automotive, industrial vacuum applications, and household vacuum cleaners to create suction for the removal of air or debris

Selection criteria

Selecting the right industrial hose is crucial for ensuring efficient water delivery, durability under harsh conditions, and the longevity of the hose itself. Industrial hoses are designed to withstand rigorous use, extreme weather conditions, and exposure to chemicals or oils, making them significantly different from their residential counterparts. This overview will delve into the key selection criteria to consider when choosing an industrial hose, including material, diameter, length, flexibility, and additional features.

Material

The material of a hose impacts its weight, flexibility, durability, and the types of fluids it can safely transport. Common materials for industrial hoses include:

• Rubber: Offers excellent flexibility, high durability, and good resistance to abrasions and weather. Rubber hoses can handle hot water and are generally considered the most durable option.
• PVC: Lightweight and flexible, PVC hoses are good for general water delivery. They are resistant to chemicals and abrasions but may not perform well under extreme temperatures.
• Polyurethane: Known for being lightweight and kink-resistant. Polyurethane hoses are durable and often reinforced for added strength, making them suitable for high-pressure applications.
• Composite: A blend of materials that can include rubber, PVC, and polyurethane. Composite hoses are designed to offer the best features of each material, such as flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance.

Learn about the differences between rubber and composite hoses in our comparison article.

Diameter

The diameter of a hose affects water flow and pressure. Industrial applications might require a larger diameter for high-volume water delivery. Common diameters for industrial garden hoses include 15.9 mm (5/8 inch), which is standard for high-volume water flow, and 19 mm (3/4 inch) for even higher flow rates necessary in some industrial settings.

Length

Choosing the right length for an industrial garden hose involves balancing the need for reach with the potential for decreased water pressure over long distances. Hoses can range from 7.6 meters (25 feet) to 30.5 meters (100 feet) or more. Due to friction within the hose, the longer the hose is, the greater the pressure drop across the hose. Figure 2 shows pressure drop across a hose at different water flows and different internal diameters.

Flexibility and kink resistance

Flexibility determines how easily a hose can be maneuvered and stored. Kink resistance is crucial for maintaining a steady water flow and extending the life of the hose. Some hoses are designed with a special kink-resistant technology or reinforced walls to prevent collapsing and kinking. Rubber, reinforced PVC, coiled hoses, and silicone are commonly chosen for flexibility and kink resistance.

Couplings

Industrial hose fittings connect to spigots and nozzles. Industrial hoses should have heavy-duty couplings made from brass or stainless steel, which are more durable and leak-resistant than plastic couplings. Learn more about essential irrigation fittings, fluid control fittings, and what materials are used for irrigation fittings.

Additional features

• UV resistance: For hoses used outdoors in direct sunlight, UV resistance helps prevent cracking and degradation over time.
• Abrasion resistance: Important for hoses that will be dragged over rough surfaces.
• Chemical resistance: Necessary for hoses that will transport or be exposed to chemicals, oils, or other harsh substances.
• Temperature range: The hose should be capable of handling the temperatures of the fluids it will carry, as well as external temperature conditions.

Safety and compliance

Ensure the hose meets any required safety standards or certifications, especially if it will be used for drinking water or in sensitive environmental areas.

• ISO 1401:ISO 1401:2016 specifies requirements for three types of flexible rubber hose for pressure spraying of agricultural chemicals and/or fertilizer products within a temperature range of -10 °C (14 °F) to 60 °C (140 °F).
• ISO 1307:ISO 1307:2006 specifies the sizes of rubber and plastics hoses and the minimum and maximum inside diameters permitted for each hose size.
• ASTM D380:ASTM D380 covers procedures for testing and inspecting rubber hoses for strength, leakage, and flexibility.
• SAE J517: SAE J517 specifies the material, performance, and testing criteria for hydraulic hoses used in various industrial and commercial settings.
• NSF/ANSI 61:NSF/ANSI 61 establishes the criteria for the control of equipment that comes into contact with drinking water or products that support its production.

Maintenance & safety tips

Ensuring industrial garden hoses are well-maintained not only prolongs their lifespan but also enhances safety in the workplace. This section overviews practical maintenance and safety tips for handling industrial garden hoses.

Regular inspection

• Check for damage: Regularly inspect hoses for signs of wear, tear, or damage. Look for cracks, leaks, or any signs of material breakdown. Early detection of these issues can prevent accidents and ensure efficient operation.
• Connection points: Examine the hose's connection points to ensure they are secure and free from leaks. Loose connections can lead to water wastage and potential safety hazards.

Proper storage

• Avoid direct sunlight: Store hoses away from direct sunlight when not in use. UV radiation can degrade the hose material over time, leading to brittleness and increased susceptibility to damage.
• Drain before storing: Ensure the hose is fully drained of water before storage. Water left inside can freeze in cold weather, causing the hose to expand and potentially crack.
• Use hose reels: Hose reels or hangers can prevent kinks and tangles, reducing the risk of tripping accidents. They also facilitate easier deployment and retrieval of the hose.

Safe usage practices

• Pressure checks: Operate the hose within the recommended pressure limits. Exceeding these limits can cause the hose to burst, posing a risk to nearby personnel and equipment.
• Wear protective gear: When using industrial hoses, especially with hot water or chemicals, wear appropriate protective gear. This includes gloves, goggles, and long-sleeved clothing to protect against splashes.
• Avoid sharp bends: When in use, avoid bending the hose sharply as this can cause kinks and weaken the hose structure. Use hose guards or adapters in areas where sharp bends are unavoidable.

Cleaning and maintenance

• Regular cleaning: Clean the hose regularly to prevent the buildup of sediments or chemicals that can corrode the hose material. Use mild soap and water for cleaning and thoroughly rinse the hose.
• Check for blockages: Periodically check for blockages that can restrict water flow. Remove any debris or obstructions to ensure optimal performance.
• Repair or replace: If a hose is damaged beyond repair, replace it promptly to maintain safety and efficiency. Temporary fixes may not withstand the demands of industrial use.