What’s a Metal Braided Hose?
A metal braided hose consists of a corrugated stainless steel core and a stainless steel braid, each serving a distinct function. The corrugated core withstands pressure with strong hoop strength, while the braid prevents elongation by providing tensile strength.
The key components of a metal hose are:
- Corrugated tubing
- Braid
- Braid collars
- End fittings
Corrugated Tubing
The corrugated tubing is the core of a flexible metal hose, providing key attributes like corrosion resistance, pressure rating, and flexibility.
- Corrosion Resistance: Alloy selection is critical. 321 stainless steel is generally sufficient, while 316 stainless steel offers more chemical resistance, and C276 is ideal for highly corrosive applications, like chlorine transfer.
- Pressure Rating: The pressure rating, or maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP), varies based on the application. Lower ratings suit standard uses, while critical applications require hoses with higher pressure ratings.
- Flexibility: Flexibility depends on the corrugation geometry. It can refer to tight bending radii, long cycle life, or ease of bending without high spring forces. Minimum dynamic bend radius (MDBR) is key, and close-pitched hoses allow tighter bends by distributing stresses over more corrugations.
Braid
The braid, which covers the corrugated hose, enhances pressure handling and cycle life. Factors such as wire diameter, number of wires, and braid coverage impact its performance. Adding additional braid layers or using braided braid increases the pressure rating and ensures durability by securing the assembly and preventing deformation.
Braid Collars
Braid collars play a crucial role in securing the corrugated hose and braid during cap welding. They isolate heat-affected zones near the weld, preventing movement and ensuring that bending stresses are distributed over functional corrugations, preserving the hose’s cycle life.
End Fittings
Stainless Weld-on Fitting
Metal hose End fittings customize the hose for various applications. Selecting the correct size, alloy, and pressure rating is essential to ensure the fittings meet the application’s requirements.
QC Hydraulics manufacture and supply stainless steel weld on fittings for metal braided hose. Please contact us for more details if you need.