Generally, rubber hose is a widely-used and widely-accepted industrial supply item. It does the job, it is easy to replace, and it is very flexible where and when flexible hose is needed. However, there are situations where metal hose is a better option and metal hose and fittings that go with them are required. Here are three reasons why you would want to use metal hose rather than rubber.

The Substance Passing Through the Hose Is Highly Corrosive

Rubber hose is only as good as its ability to resist the corrosive substances that pass through it. If you are using hoses to transport acid of any kind through your plant, you will need something much stronger and more durable than rubber. That is where metal hose comes in. It may take several months to several years for these substances to eat holes through metal hose, whereas it might only take days or weeks for rubber hoses to fall apart.

The Substance Passing Through the Hose Is Hotter Than Rubber's Melting Point

Rubber has a lower melting point than many metals (only about 180 degrees Fahrenheit). That said, if your metal hose is comprised of a metal alloy that is able to withstand really hot temperatures, it is a far better option than the rubber hose because the hot, liquid substance could burn right through the rubber hose. That would turn the rubber hose into quite the mess on your factory floor. Any substance hotter than the melting point of rubber would also look for the weakest points in the rubber hose, which is typically the points where the hose connects to metal fittings. Additionally, the metal fittings on rubber hose would transfer heat from the substance, thereby heating up themselves and melting the rubber hose at its connection point.

Metal Hoses Can Be Threaded and Screw Right into/on the Metal Fittings

Metal hoses are similar to pipes in that they can be threaded on the ends and screw right into or on the metal fittings. This forms a more secure and flush fit between the metal hose and the fitting, preventing leaks and providing a smoother connection between machine and hose. Almost no prep work is needed to get the metal hose on/into the fitting, unlike the rubber hose which will need to be cleaned, clamped and an adhesive applied to the end. It makes for a very quick repair or replacement process too, should you need it in the future.

For more information, contact Liberty Hose & Supply Inc or a similar company.

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