The three main components of a steam hose are the media, the reinforcement, and the cover. The latter provides the necessary pressure and motion strength, while the former is used to protect the other two. As the name suggests, steam hoses are used in environments with high temperatures and pressures. Consequently, it is imperative to buy the right product for the job. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a steam hose.
One of the most critical factors to look for in a steam hose is the pressure. The best hoses are built to withstand the maximum pressure. While it’s impossible to predict how much pressure a steam hose will be under, most manufacturers have safety factors built into their design. A steam hose’s material should be resistant to steam, water, and other fluids, and should not react with these substances. These hoses can channel dry or wet steam, as well as superheated steam.
Hose stocks that withstand 0degF temperature are susceptible to failure. They become stiff and brittle when they are removed from service and cooled to ambient temperatures. This causes internal cracks to form and can cause the hose to fail. A standard visual inspection will not reveal these cracks, but the steam pressure and dissection can reveal them. A crack in the hose can lead to bursting, so make sure you choose a good quality hose to avoid this problem.
While a high-quality steam hose should be durable and flexible, there are a number of disadvantages that you should be aware of. One of these is that steam hoses are generally very hot and super heated steam can corrode the internal surface of a hose. This can cause the steam to expand and decrease pressure. In addition, superheated steam is also hardening the inner surface of the rubber hose, which reduces the hose’s service life.
While general high-pressure rubber hoses are not suitable for saturated steam and hot water, steam hosing with steel wire reinforcement is the ideal solution. Designed to resist high temperatures, this type of hose is used in places where temperature is controlled and fire prevention is essential. Its high-quality black smooth synthetic rubber hose is also a good choice for hot water and high-temperature applications. Lastly, it is backed by a steel wire reinforcement.
The ARPM has established a code-based identification system to identify hose manufacturers. It was initially applied to brake hoses but was later extended to all hoses. Today, most manufacturers in the U.S. have assigned codes for their products. A hose with interior colored yarn is more reliable than one that has exterior markings. A hose with interior colored yarn is more likely to remain identifiable throughout its life. You can use it to determine the quality of your hose.
