What is Stainless Flex Hose? Usage Areas and Selection Guide

What is Stainless Flex Hose? Usage Areas and Selection Guide

What is Stainless Flex Hose?

Stainless flex hose; They are flexible hose systems reinforced with stainless steel wire braid that provide safe fluid transfer under high temperature, pressure and vibrating working conditions. It comes into play where classic rubber or plastic hoses are insufficient and offers a long-lasting solution.

It has a wide range of applications, from industrial facilities to ship machinery, from chemical processes to hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

 

Key Advantages of Stainless Flex Hose

High Compressive Strength

Thanks to its stainless steel mesh structure, it exhibits superior resistance to sudden pressure fluctuations and shock loads.

High Temperature Resistance

There are special types that can operate in the range of -200°C to +600°C. This feature provides a great advantage in steam and hot oil lines.

Vibration and Expansion Absorption

It dampens machine vibrations, preventing damage to system components.

Corrosion and Chemical Resistance

Thanks to its stainless steel (AISI 304 / 316 / 321) options, it is resistant to aggressive chemicals and outdoor conditions.

 

Where is Stainless Flex Hose Used?

• Chemical and petrochemical plants
• Food and pharmaceutical industry
• Steam and hot water lines
• Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Marine and offshore applications
• HVAC and mechanical installations

 

Stainless Flex Hose Types

Single Layer Wire Braided Stainless Flex Hose

It is preferred in medium pressure applications. It has high flexibility.

Double Layer Wire Braided Stainless Flex Hose

It provides maximum safety in systems that require high pressure.

Spiral Protected Stainless Flex Hose

It offers extra protection against external impacts and abrasion.

PTFE Inner Base Stainless Flex Hose

Ideal for applications where chemical resistance is critical.

 

Things to Consider When Choosing Stainless Flex Hose

 

Stainless Flex Hose Pressure – Temperature Selection Table

The table below has been prepared for you to quickly and safely evaluate the working pressure and temperature relationship when choosing a stainless flex hose  . The table covers the most commonly used stainless flex hose types in the industry.

Hose Structure	Wire Mesh Type	Max. Working Pressure (bar)	Max. Operating Temperature (°C)	Typical Usage
Stainless Flex (Standard)	Single Layer Wire Mesh	40 – 80 bar	-50 / +400	Mechanical installations, low pressure steam lines
Stainless Flex (Reinforced)	Double Layer Wire Mesh	100 – 160 bar	-50 / +450	Industrial fluid transfer, vibrating systems
High Pressure Stainless Flex	Multi-Ply Wire Mesh	200 – 250 bar	-40 / +500	Heavy industry, high-pressure process lines
PTFE Inner Base Stainless Flex	Single / Double Wire Mesh	150 – 300 bar	-70 / +260	Chemical fluids, food and pharmaceutical industry
Spiral Protected Stainless Flex	Double Wire + Spiral	160 – 220 bar	-40 / +450	Harsh site conditions with risk of external impact

Note: As  the operating temperature increases, the maximum pressure that the hose can carry decreases. The final choice must  be made by adding the safety coefficient (25–40%).

 

Pressure – Temperature Calculation Box

The following mini calculation has been prepared to quickly determine the safe operating value in the selection of stainless flex hose  . This structure offers a practical reference, especially for field teams and purchasing units.

???? Steps of Mini Calculation

1️⃣ Enter System Maximum Pressure (bar)
Example: 120 bar

2️⃣ Enter the Operating Temperature (°C)
Sample: 400°C

3️⃣ Determine Safety Coefficient

• Standard industrial application: 1.25×
• High risk / continuous operation: 1.40 ×

 

Calculation Formula

Required Hose Pressure (bar) = System Pressure × Safety Coefficient

Example Calculation:
 120 bar × 1.40 = 168 bar

For this system, stainless flex hose with a strength of at least 180-200 bar should be preferred.

 

Pressure Drop Rule with Temperature

At high temperatures, the pressure that stainless flex hoses can carry decreases:

•  10–15% reduction of nominal pressure → above 200 °C
•  20–30% reduction of nominal pressure → above 350 °C
•  Special design (multi-layer wire / compensator type) is recommended → above 450 °C

Warning: The calculated value must still be within the safe range after the temperature drop.

 

Rule of Thumb for Safe Selection

1. Working Pressure (bar)
2. Operating Temperature (°C)
3. Fluid Type (oil, steam, chemical, gas)
4. Inner Diameter (DN size)
5. Stainless Steel Quality (304 / 316)
6. Connection Type (flanged, threaded, coupling)

An incorrectly selected stainless flex hose can lead to system failures and high maintenance costs.

 

Comparison of Stainless Flex Hose and Rubber Hose

Feature	Stainless Flex Hose	Rubber Hose
Compressive Strength	Very High	Medium
Temperature Resistance	Very High	Low-Medium
Chemical Resistance	High	Limited
Life span	Long	Medium

 

Safety and Standards in Stainless Flex Hoses

• EN 10380
• ISO 15649
• PED 2014/68/EU

Production in accordance with these standards is critical for both occupational safety and system continuity.

 

Hidroman Stainless Flex Hose Solutions

As Hidroman; We offer reliable solutions for industrial projects with high quality stainless flex hose, special size production, flanged and coupling connection options. Our products are tested in harsh field conditions, long-lasting and high performance-oriented.

 

Conclusion: Why Stainless Flex Hose?

If high pressure, temperature, vibration and chemical resistance are required at the same time in your system; Stainless Flex hoses are the safest and long-term solution. With the right product selection, both operational safety is ensured and maintenance costs are minimized.