Rubber hoses have several applications across many industries. They are particularly indispensable for applications involving the transfer of fluids, gases and other materials in engineering, construction, mining, agricultural and geotechnical industries, among many others. However, they come in various options, and you will need to do some research to select one that suits your needs. Unfortunately, finding a suitable industrial rubber hose for your needs can be challenging if it's your first time looking for one. Therefore, here is a quick guide to help you.

Consider The Size

The size of an industrial rubber hose significantly impacts its performance. In addition, every application has unique size requirements. Therefore, it's imperative to check the size of the industrial rubber hose you intend to buy first. Generally, size covers three crucial elements: the inner diameter, the outer diameter, and the length.

The inner diameter affects factors like the velocity of content flowing within the hose. Therefore, it's vital to get it right. Undersizing the internal diameter can result in system damage because of increased velocity, pressure losses and leaks, among other issues. On the other hand, oversizing it can reduce the flow velocity, consequently causing sluggish performance. The outer diameter is also crucial because it determines how properly your hose will fit around components, making all the difference in your installation procedures. As for the length, you will want to invest in a hose that fits perfectly between endpoints. Therefore, it's imperative to ask about the maximum reach of the hose before you buy. Too short an industrial rubber hose won't serve the purpose, while a longer length than you need may result in excessive pressure losses in your system and reduced efficiency. Worth noting is that hoses may shrink based on pressure. In addition, your hose may need to bend or flex across fixtures depending on the application. For these reasons, it's always ideal to go for a slightly longer hose than you think you will need.

Ask About the Pressure Ratings

Industrial rubber hoses have different pressure ratings, and it's crucial to ask about the maximum working pressure before you buy one. The pressure rating determines the amount of force the hose can withstand per unit area. And when thinking about the ideal pressure rating, it's vital to consider surges and spikes in your system to ensure your hose doesn't give in to unexpected pressure levels.

Consider Working Temperatures

Temperature is an equally crucial aspect to consider when selecting industrial rubber hoses. Here, you will need to think about the temperature of the materials flowing inside the hose and the temperature of the hose's environment. With that in mind, it would be best to consider both maximum and minimum operating temperatures and go for a temperature rating that meets or exceeds those temperatures.