With so many different types of hose on the market such as metal, rubber, PTFE, fabric and composite it makes it difficult when to decide to use metal. Below are several determining factors for using metal.
- Temperatures - If the media or the atmospheric temperature is extremely hot or cold, metal may be the only material that can withstand it.
- Permeation - Metal hose does not allow permeation, it contains the gases inside the hose. Rubber hose does allow permeation.
- Chemical Compatibility - Metal hose can handle more of a variety of chemicals than other types of hose.
- Possible Catastrophic Failure - When a metal hose fails, it usually develops small cracks or holes. Other types of hose develop larger holes and or cracks and potentially come apart.
- Fire Safety - Other types of hose will melt when exposed to fire. Metal can maintain up to 1200°F.
- Bending and Abrasion - A metal hose can be used as a protective cover over other hoses or wires if abrasion and over bending are concerns.
- Fitting Flexibility - metal hose can be fitted with almost any type of fitting. Other types of hose may require collars and or shanks.
Corrugated metal hose creates a gas tight seal, capable of handling high pressures of liquid or gas.
Stripwound metal hose is better suited for dry bulk transfer due to the lack of a gas tight seal, but it is a rugged hose that offers a high level of protection to product being transfered.