WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STAINLESS FLEX HOSES

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STAINLESS FLEX HOSES

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STAINLESS FLEX HOSES

1. INTRODUCTION

The safe, flexible, and long-lasting transportation of fluids in industrial facilities is critical for system efficiency. At this point, stainless flex hoses (or flexible metal hoses) are one of the most reliable solutions in applications that require high pressure, temperature and chemical resistance. Compared to traditional rubber or thermoplastic hoses, it  offers high temperature, corrosion and vibration resistance thanks to its stainless steel construction  . For this reason, it is used extensively in petrochemical, energy, automotive, food, marine, and hydraulic systems.

2. WHAT IS STAINLESS FLEX HOSE?

Stainless flex hoses are flexible metal hoses that are generally  made of AISI 304, 316L or 321 stainless steel material, have a corrugated structure on the inside and reinforced with wire braid on the outside. Thanks to this structure,  it provides both flexibility and high mechanical strength.

Technical structure:

Component	Material	Task
Inner Hose (Corrugated Tube)	AISI 304/316L	Channel through which pressurized fluid is transported
Outer Braid	Stainless Steel Wire	Absorbs blast pressure and external impacts
Gland / Connection End	Carbon Steel, Brass, Stainless	Ensures leak-proof connection

 

3. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS & PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

Stainless flex hoses are produced in different diameters and pressure classes. The table below shows typical technical values:

Characteristic	Value Range	Explanation
Working Pressure	10 – 250 bar	Varies according to the number of knitting layers
Burst Pressure	3x working pressure	The safety coefficient is 3:1
Operating Temperature	-270 °C – +600 °C	High temperature resistance
Stretching Radius	30 – 300 mm	Depends on nominal diameter
Material Quality	AISI 304/316L	Resistant to chemical environments

4. ADVANTAGES OF STAINLESS FLEX HOSES

1. High Pressure and Temperature Resistance
• It can be used in steam, gas and hot oil circuits.
2. Corrosion Resistance
• It has a long life in acidic, salty or chemical environments.
3. Vibration and Noise Damping
• It provides vibration isolation in compressor, pump and motor connections.
4. Long Life and Low Maintenance Cost
• 5-10 times longer lifespan than plastic hoses.
5. Hygiene & Food Compliance (316L)
• It can be used in food, pharmaceutical and chemical industry.
6. High Flexibility
• It provides ease of installation in narrow spaces.

5. APPLICATION FIELDS

Sector	Usage Area
Petrochemical	Steam, acid, solvent lines
Power Plants	Turbine, heating, cooling lines
Food & Pharma	Hygienic fluid lines
Maritime	Fuel, exhaust and water transfer
Automotive	Exhaust gas discharge and fuel lines
Hydraulic Systems	Pressurized oil circuits and tank connections

6. FLEX HOSE USE IN HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS

In hydraulic systems, stainless flex hoses are preferred  to absorb stresses that may occur in lines due to vibration, pressure pulse, and expansion. Especially  in high-pressure environments such as hydraulic power units (HPU),cylinder connections,  and test benches, these hoses extend system life and improve tightness.

Professional manufacturers such as Hidroman produce these hoses  with special union connections, geometric dimensions and coating types according to customer needs  .

7. FLEX HOSE SELECTION CRITERIA

Choosing the right hose is critical for system safety and longevity. The following parameters should be taken into account during the selection process:

Criteria	Explanation
Pressure Rating	Working and burst pressure must be appropriate
Temperature Range	The material must not exceed the thermal limits
Fluid Type	Chemical compatibility should be checked
Mounting Position	Bend radius should be calculated
Fitting Type	Tooth, flange or clamp type should be selected
Vibration Level	Appropriate knitting layer should be preferred

 

8. MAINTENANCE AND CONTROL PROCEDURES

• Periodic visual inspection: Checking for damage, rust or deformation
• Pressure test: Hydrostatic testing is recommended at least once a year
• Joint tightness: Gland tightness and seal condition should be checked
• Cleaning: Chemical or particle accumulation should be avoided
• Replacement period: It is recommended to renew after 3–5 years of use

9. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF HIDROMAN

Hidroman adopts high quality standards, certified welding methods (TIG/MIG) and  production processes in accordance with ISO 10380 norms in the production of stainless flex hoses
.Hoses produced by Hidroman:

• All hydraulic systems are  tested for high temperature applications and industrial installations.
• Customer-specific length, connection end and braid type options are offered.
• It is delivered with leak and pressure resistance test reports.

10. CONCLUSION

Stainless flex hoses are  strategic components that provide flexibility, safety, and longevity in industrial facilities  . Proper material selection, proper installation, and regular maintenance maximize system safety. When evaluated in terms of energy efficiency and system continuity, these hoses are not just a fitting  but a fundamental part of industrial sustainability.

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What pressures do stainless flex hoses withstand?
   It usually withstands pressures from 10 to 250 bar, but can go up to 400 bar in special productions.
2. What material is it made of?
   It is most commonly produced from AISI 304 and 316L stainless steel.
3. At what temperatures can flexible metal hoses be used?It is
   suitable for operating temperatures from -270 °C to +600 °C.
4. Can it be used in the food industry?
   Yes, especially 316L grade hoses are suitable for the food and pharmaceutical industry.
5. Why should Hidroman stainless flex hoses be preferred?Because it is
   controlled at high test pressures in accordance with the ISO 10380 standard and customer-oriented production is carried out.