Whether you're looking for a new compressed air hose for your air compressor or you want to upgrade the one that came with your tool, there are many things to consider. These are the most important.
Lengths are a key consideration when choosing an air hose. You can avoid pressure drop by choosing the right length.
how to choose compressed air hose
There are a range of compressed air hose models to choose from, each of which is designed to perform different applications. It is important to understand what you need, how you will use it, and ensure that the hose can handle the required pressure.
Another important aspect to consider is the length of the hose for an air compressor. It determines how much movement you can make with your tool and whether it will be manoeuvrable around obstacles. Longer hoses are typically required for tasks such as spray painting and framing.
The hose's performance is also determined by its internal diameter (ID). The larger the ID, the greater the volume of air it can carry.
Using a larger hose will allow you to get more air out of your compressor, but it may also cause the compressor to run at higher CFMs, which can result in more energy usage and ultimately reduce the life of the hose and compressor.
Air hoses are usually made from either polyurethane or rubber, with both offering varying levels of flexibility and durability. A polyurethane air hose will be lighter than a rubber one and can withstand temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius.
Fittings for compressed air hoses
It is important to look at the fittings included in a new model of compressed air hose. These will help you make a smooth connection to your compressor, air tools and other equipment.
Most air hose models have couplers or plugs already installed. These allow you to extend the hose almost indefinitely. Keep in mind, however, that every coupler you add to the end of your hose will cause a slight pressure drop.
Many of these plugs and couplers have a quick attach feature that makes it easy to attach them to the air hose and connect other parts. They are also less likely to be damaged by impact and abrasion.
Color coding is another important feature to look out for. This helps you identify the part quickly, especially when it is tucked away in a tool box.
The type of material the fitting is made from also matters. Most fittings are made of galvanized steel. This is a hardening process that makes it less susceptible to being damaged. It is also resistant against corrosion, which is useful when the fitting comes in contact with high-pressure environments such as those found in compressed air systems.
Production standards for compressed air-hoses
To be safe, compressed air hoses must meet certain production standards. They must meet minimum moisture content and maximum air pressure.
Moisture in compressed air can cause issues with process and product quality, so it's important to keep the hose dry when working with high-pressure tools. This ensures that the hose doesn't get damaged by water vapor.
If the hose is exposed to oil or grease, it needs to have an oil-resistant rubber sheathing. For this reason, many manufacturers choose technopolymer hoses which can resist oils, fuels, and abrasion for long periods.
Air hoses should be regularly tested for moisture. They also need to be maintained at a certain pressure to prevent bursting. If a hose ruptures or breaks, it can cause a wild thrashing hazard that could injure employees.
Coiled air hoses are popular in factories due to their tensile coils that run along their length and spring back when released. This eliminates the risk of entanglements and trip hazards in busy areas. They are available in nylon and polyurethane. The nylon material is more resistant to abrasion than the polyurethane. It's also more durable and lightweight, making it a good choice for contractors who work in extreme temperatures (warm and cold) or who need more flexibility and resistance to cuts, kinks and other damage.