Selecting the correct hose is essential to ensure your pneumatic tools perform at their best. The right MaxSafe hose will help maintain stable air pressure and allow your tools to operate efficiently. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best air hose for your specific needs, with details about the various hoses available from MaxSafe.
Consider Hose Length
When selecting an air hose, it’s important to think about both the distance from your air compressor to the work area and the amount of movement you’ll need while using your tool. To prevent unnecessary pressure loss, avoid using a hose longer than necessary.
For example, if you’re a mechanic working in a garage and using a hose for tyre inflation, a short hose will suffice. However, if you’re a tire technician who needs to move around large vehicles with an impact wrench, a longer hose will be necessary.
Understand Hose Size
Hose size is typically defined by its Internal Diameter (I.D.), although you may also see the Outer Diameter (O.D.) listed in the specifications. The I.D. is crucial because it determines how much air the hose can carry, which directly impacts the performance of your tools.
Common sizes include 7 mm (1/4 inch), 8 mm (5/16 inch), 10 mm (3/8 inch), and 13 mm (1/2 inch). It’s essential to match the hose I.D. with the air tool’s cubic feet per minute requirements to ensure optimal performance.
Check Maximum Working Pressure
The maximum working pressure of the hose should meet or exceed the pressure of your air supply. You might also encounter the term “burst pressure” in the hose specifications, which refers to the maximum pressure the hose can withstand before it fails. At MaxSafe, our hoses are typically designed with a safety margin—often a 3:1 ratio—meaning a hose rated for 21 bar / 300 psi can handle burst pressures up to 63 bar / 900 psi. However, it’s crucial to use the hose within its designated working pressure and not rely on the burst pressure as a guide for regular use.
Choose the Right Hose Type
MaxSafe offers a variety of hoses tailored to different applications:
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PU Rolls: These hoses are ideal for applications requiring flexibility and durability. Polyurethane (PU) hoses are lightweight and resistant to abrasion, fuel, and oils, making them suitable for environments where tight bends and high maneuverability are needed, such as in robotic systems or pneumatic controls.
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PU Coils: PU coiled hoses are perfect for compact spaces or when easy storage is important. These hoses retract neatly after use, which helps to prevent tangling and reduces the risk of tripping.
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PU Coils with End Fittings: Similar to standard PU coils, these hoses come pre-fitted with end fittings, providing a ready-to-use solution that saves time and ensures a secure connection.
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Rubber Alloy Hose: Ideal for general-purpose air transfer, these hoses offer excellent flexibility, even in cold temperatures. Rubber alloy hoses are known for their durability and resistance to wear, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications where a rugged hose is needed.
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Breathing Air Hose: Designed for applications that require the delivery of clean, breathable air, such as in diving or medical environments, these hoses are made from materials that ensure the air remains uncontaminated throughout its passage.