Stainless Flex Hoses
Stainless flex hoses are generally known as flexible hoses made of stainless steel. These are durable and flexible types of pipes used in a variety of industrial applications. Here are some features of stainless flex hoses:
1. Stainless Steel Material: Stainless steel is a material that is durable, corrosion-resistant and resistant to high temperatures. These features make stainless flex hoses a preferred option in a variety of industrial environments.
2. Flexibility: Flex hoses can be easily bent into different shapes and angles thanks to their flexible design. This feature provides flexibility during assembly and application.
3. High Pressure Resistance: Flex hoses made of stainless steel are generally designed for high pressure applications. They can be used in many industrial areas such as hydraulic systems, gas transportation and steam systems.
4. Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel material is resistant to chemicals and environmental conditions. This feature ensures the long life of flex hoses.
5. Various Connection Options: Stainless flex hoses come with different connection types. These connections may be suitable for the environment and application in which the hose will be used.
6. Wide Application Area: Stainless flex hoses can be used in various industrial applications, from the chemical industry to food processing facilities, from oil refineries to the automotive industry.
These features enable stainless flex hoses to have a wide range of uses and offer a suitable solution for many industrial needs.
Stainless Flex Hoses are generally used in low pressure water lines and air lines because they are flexible with their flexible structure. Within our company, we have production capacity between 1/4" diameter and 10" diameter.
The hose can be made resistant to high temperatures by coating it with glass fiber, asbestos and silicone.
Its main advantage over stripwound hoses, which are more flexible and simpler to manufacture, but where 100% sealing is not possible, is its 100% sealing.
Stainless steel sheet, with its high temperature resistance (-270 °C +600 °C) and corrosion resistance, combines with the easily bendable structure of the flexible metal hose and does not have cross-sectional shrinkage, turning into reliable and long-lasting hoses in an extremely wide range of usage areas.
Metal hoses are an indispensable part of all types of installations and industries, thanks to the metal braid that can be made in various thicknesses and profiles, which increases the pressure resistance of the hose and its resistance to external influences, and the additional protection methods designed for moving environments. The fact that it eliminates the difficulties of making flexible, fixed connections also causes the widespread use of stainless flex metal hoses.
Flexible Metal Hoses are manufactured and tested according to TS EN ISO 10380 standard, all hoses are shipped after being made into a hose and after the desired connection parts are welded, a 100% leakage test is performed.
Stainless Flex Hose Application Areas
Waterline Applications
Hot Oil Line Applications
Fan-Coil Connections
Solar Energy Systems
Lines Resistant to High Pressure and High Temperature
Gas Line Applications
Warning: It should be used in applications where the pressure and temperature values specified on the product label are not exceeded.
MBA Metal Stainless Flex Hose
Stainless Flex Hose Features
Application Standard hose for different use Model parallel corrugated single walled flat corrugated Hose material Stainless steel 1.4404 Features Good corrosion against different substances for the material used Very suitable for irritants. 1 mesh cover from 1.4301
Standard DIN EN ISO 10380 A
Temperature Minimum -200 °C
Temperature Maximum +550 °C
Temperature applies to hose only
Stainless Flex Hose Types
Stainless flex hoses come in a variety of types to suit different industrial needs and applications. Here are some of the commonly available stainless flex hose types:
1. Flexible Metal Hoses: Flexible metal hoses made of stainless steel are generally preferred for high temperature and pressure applications. They are generally used to transport liquid, gas or vapor.
2. Bendable Hoses: These hoses provide great convenience during assembly and installation as they are flexible and can be bent in different shapes. They are frequently used in construction and installation works.
3. Hose Joints: Stainless flex hoses come with different joints and fittings. These joints allow the hose to be connected securely and leak-free to pipelines or equipment.
4. Expandable Hoses: These types of hoses have an expandable design to change their length. This can be useful to adapt to different installation requirements.
5. Metal Braided Hoses: Braided sleeves made of stainless steel increase the durability of the hose and provide protection against mechanical damage. Additionally, they provide safety and durability in high-pressure applications.
6. Steam Hoses: These hoses have a special structure that can carry high temperature steam. They are used in applications such as food processing, chemistry and industrial cleaning.
These are some of the common types of stainless flex hoses. Depending on application requirements, more specific types and features may also be available.
Warning;
Please note the dynamic and thermal reduction factors for pressure values. The specified pressure values are only valid for hose goods. Order note Different models can be offered upon request.
Stainless Flex Hose Assembly Stages
First, the nipple side of the hose is wrapped with Teflon or linen and connected to the line. If both sides of the hose have nipple connections; To avoid twisting in the hose, the nipple to be mounted on the fixed fitting or sleeve must first be connected.
An asbestos-free clincher gasket is placed inside the fitting. While assembling the fitting part, it is tightened by holding the wrench at the tail of the fitting in order to prevent twists in the hose and possible cracks at the welding points.
If the hose has a fixed flange connection, attention should be paid to the direction of the corresponding flange when assembling it. In flange connections, assembly elements such as gaskets, bolts and nuts must be selected correctly according to the type of fluid and connection size.
The hose should not be stretched so that the joint gaps are extended. Bending radii should be taken into consideration when making hose connections. Check out the sample assembly drawings.
Non-braided FCU hoses should be preferred in low and constant pressure systems. If the fluctuation in system pressure is high and the system is constantly exposed to it, even 1 bar of pressure may cause the hose to burst over time.
When the bending radii and correct connection shapes shared above are not applied when using braided or non-braided hoses, the hoses burst due to the stress accumulated at the welding points or bending areas of the hose.
When the correct connection is made, the system pressure must also be controlled. Especially in steel-headed hoses, it is necessary to prevent rust and insulate them. Rusty heads break off from their welding point over time.
Twisting is done using a wrench on the hose instead of the wrench openings on the hoses. This causes the hose to twist and burst at the welding points.
Flex flexible stainless hoses, with their ease of installation and use and long life against corrosion, are used in our home boilers, stoves, meters at the entrance of our flats, fountains and armatures, and decorative indoor installations that are becoming widespread day by day, so to speak, out of sight but very close to our lives and security. It continues to serve for decades.
Apart from these, flex hose (pipe) is preferred in general water installations, solar energy (solar) systems, boiler and fan coil systems, in short, with its flexible and rust-resistant structure, in all systems where precise settings, vibration and corrosion are wanted to be eliminated and easy and fast installation is required. is done. The main fluids passing through it are natural gas and hot/cold water.
Technical Information for Stainless Flex Hose
1.1 GENERAL
Hose lines are designed according to current operating conditions. They are produced by expert personnel. Using proven and approved production methods. Hose lines undergo a final inspection including leakage and/or pressure testing. Hose lines are marked with the most important information. Hose lines comply with: "sound engineering practice" according to the Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EC Article 3 Part 3 or the standards specified in the order.
1.2 STORAGE
Subject to damage, contamination, weather conditions, etc. Adequate protection must be provided against The effects of chlorides, bromides, iodides and foreign rust and film rust should be avoided. Hose lines should be stored in a dry, tension-free place. and rigid state. When stored rolled up, the radius of the hose line should not be less than the minimum value.
static bending radius. Assuming correct storage conditions, there are no restrictions on storage time for metal and PTFE hose lines. with mesh and fittings made of chrome-nickel stainless steel. In the case of zinc-plated or painted steel fittings, storage time depends largely on storage conditions and is usually limited.
1.3 INSTALLATION
• Hose lines may only be assembled and installed by suitably qualified personnel.
• Instructions regarding the use and installation of HİDROMAN hose lines must be followed. Some important points from the Guidelines are highlighted below:
• No axial load (tensile or compression buckling)
• No torsional load (the longitudinal axis of the hose and the direction of movement must be in the same plane to avoid torsional loads).
• Minimum static and dynamic bending radius drawing information according to the data sheet or product must be observed.
• Before commissioning, check whether the detachable connections are seated properly.
• Damaged hose lines should not be installed or commissioned.
• Cover hose lines to protect against welding spatter and grinding dust while working on equipment.
1.4 COMMISSIONING/OPERATION
Permissible limit values (pressure, temperature, bending radii, medium concentration) must be observed during commissioning and operation. Hose lines may only be used in accordance with the designer's instructions. intent (intended pressure, temperature, environment, movement). Where flowing media is used, lines should be vented during filling. Due to their compressibility, gaseous liquids remaining in lines can pose a serious hazard and potentially lead to a higher classification and stricter requirements being applicable to the product. The resistance of the materials through which the medium flows must be checked for the particular medium used. A An exact expression of the resistance of hose lines can normally only be obtained by practical experience in the application.
In cases of high operating temperatures, the high thermal conductivity of metallic materials, there is a risk of burns if the hose line is touched. Appropriate precautions must be taken (contact protection, warning notices, barriers). Safety precautions against whipping hose lines should also be taken. It should be used in places where there is a risk of electrically conductive materials and sufficient equipotential wiring or grounding. electrostatic discharge (PTFE hoses). The movement of the hoses must not be restricted, otherwise
risk of abrasive wear. Hose lines must always be installed and operated in a way that does not pose a danger to people or the environment. environment. Protective measures must be taken against remaining unmitigated hazards. It is explained in Information Sheet T 002 published by Teknik. BG Chemistry.
1.5 MAINTENANCE
External and internal inspection intervals, load and hazard degree. A qualified person should check that the item is safe at work and record the situation. Results. Damaged braided hose lines must be replaced immediately. Repairs to eliminate leaks in hose lines or welding, wrapping, etc. It is not allowed to be used in combinations with . Damage caused by mechanical cleaning, unsuitable cleaning materials, etc. substances should be avoided.
2. INSTALLATION CONDITIONS OF METAL AND PTFE HOSE LINES
For the correct use and installation of HİDROMAN, the following provisions must be followed. metal and PTFE hose lines:
2.1 CORRECT SOFTENING AND ROUND REMOVAL
Pulling on the ends of opened hose lines should be avoided to prevent them from being subjected to damaging twisting. loads. Additionally, the radius of the hose line must not be smaller than the smallest allowable bending radius. These errors can be prevented by wrapping and rolling hose lines correctly.
2.2 CORRECT LENGTH
If the length of the hose is too short, the hose lines are bent at the connection points. A straight length At least 1 x DN per connection point must be added to the length calculated from the bending radius.
2.3 PROPER BENDING
Incorrect installation of hose lines can cause excessive bending of hose lines at the connections. Error can be avoided by using these pipe elbows.
2.4 PREVENTING BREAKAGE
Laying the hose line on a saddle or reel of suitable diameter prevents the hose line from bending.
2.5 PREVENTION OF SUCTION
Incorrect installation may cause the hose to become pinched on its longitudinal axis. This error can occur as a result of poor installation or movement of the hose line, causing the braid to separate from the hose. When this happens, the pressure resistance of the hose cannot be guaranteed. Braided hose lines are therefore unsuitable as a means of compensating axial expansion. Axial expansion can be accommodated by: Hose lines mounted in a U-shape.
2.6 BENDING MOTION
The biggest mistake made during installation is resulting in the hose line bending during operation. Torsional movement causes premature failure of the hose line. Pipe and hose axes and direction of movement lie in the same plane.
4. DESIGN OF METAL AND PTFE HOSE LINES
4.1 GENERAL
Ensuring the safety of hose lines requires knowledge of the operating conditions and field of application. This information leads to design, production, marking, testing and documentation being appropriate for the product concerned. application. The load capacity of hose lines depends on the components and methods used. The “weakest” component hose line determines the nominal pressure PN of the hose line. Nominal pressure is valid at 20 °C and below. static loading The maximum permissible operating temperature depends on the materials used.
Nominal pressures of components, thermal or dynamic factors depending on operating conditions. Nominal values of components, reduction factors, etc. can be found in the relevant file. technical data sheets. For metallic hose lines, the burst pressure is equal to 4 times the highest permissible pressure PN at room temperature. For PTFE hose lines, the burst pressure is equal to 3 or 4 times the highest permissible pressure PN in the room. heat. If no acceptance test (pressure test) is specified, HİDROMAN performs a standard sealing test on metal and PTFE hose lines under water with approximately 8 bar compressed air. Documented pressure tests in accordance with official regulations, guidelines, prescriptions, standards, technical rules, customer requirements, etc. Test pressure normally ranges from 1.1 to 2.2 times the working pressure. In tests, limits must also be taken into account for the use of all components! Nominal bending radii are set in a similar manner to reducing the nominal working pressure. These maximum allowable pressures and minimum bending radii for a given operating scenario are calculated as follows:
PU = permissible working pressure in bar
PN = nominal pressure in bar according to table
kd = dynamic reduction factor
kt = thermal reduction factor
Rd = bending radius for frequent bending
Rd = nominal bending radius for frequent bending
5. PLACEMENT OF THERMAL EXPANSION IN METAL HOSE LINES
Components expand when heated and contract again when cooled. Pipelines, flexible intermediate elements (e.g. metal hoses) where high temperatures may prevail in addition to high pressures. Expansion caused by heat must be accommodated. This is necessary to ensure that metal hoses are not axially loaded or bent. The hose should be installed if possible. 180° U-bend to accommodate a large axial expansion.
WHERE ARE FLEX (FLEXIBLE) STAINLESS METAL HOSE AND HOSE SETS USED?
Flex flexible stainless hoses, with their ease of installation and use and long life against decay (corrosion), are used in the combi boilers in our homes, on the stove, in the meters at the entrance of our flats, in heavy industry, in our fountains and armatures, in decorative flat installations that are becoming widespread day by day, so to speak, out of sight but in our lives and It continues to serve us for decades in a way that is very close to our security.
Apart from these, flex hose (pipe) is used in general water installations, solar energy (solar) systems, boiler (boiler) and fan coil systems, in short, where precise settings, vibration and corrosion are wanted to be eliminated and easy and fast installation is requested, with its flexible and rust-resistant structure. It is preferred in all systems.
The main fluids passing through it are natural gas and hot/cold water.
Stainless flex hoses are manufactured from special stainless strip sheet materials with the content specified in the relevant TSE and EN ISO European standards. There are dozens of material types in relevant standards. In order to make the subject simpler, in the material detail section, it is produced from 304/304L, 316/316L, the most commonly used and known names in the market.
Stainless flex hoses have a melting point of approximately 1400-1450 degrees (C). Therefore, they are quite resistant to possible fire. The outer coatings (sleeving) do not have any fire retardant properties. What is expected from the cover is that it protects the hose against cleaning chemicals and does not cause a respiratory hazard by releasing harmful chemicals into the environment during a fire.
The final products, for whatever purpose they will be used, must comply with the mechanical, chemical, thermal, etc. specifications specified in the standard or standards to which they are subject. They have to pass all the tests.
If the place of use is not limited to a standard, the customer may request that the product be tested according to the TS EN 10380 flex hose general standard, or may request special tests.
For products that successfully pass these tests, manufacturers are entitled to receive certificates from the relevant organizations.
We strongly recommend that users pay priority attention to these certifications.
WHAT ARE THE STAINLESS FLEX HOSE MANUFACTURING STEPS?
Flex Hose begins its journey in manufacturing with its chemical content, cut, flatness, thickness, surface quality, etc. It starts as a “stainless strip sheet”, many of which are produced with great precision.
Then, in a production line, TIG, Laser, Plasma etc. It is welded continuously by one of the methods and becomes a pipe. Then, it leaves the line on the same line, with its joints formed by mechanical or hydraulic forming and becoming flexible. Afterwards, it is immediately subjected to the first sealing test.
If, after this stage, it is only subjected to wrapping and packaging and shipped directly, as is the case with solar flexes, the hose has now turned into a product. If the product is to be delivered as a "flexible stainless flex hose kit", it must visit one or more of the MAIN processing stations briefly mentioned below. In this process, semi-finished products are subjected to leakage tests one or more times. This means that each product, without exception, will be tested at least 2 times in total.
1- Nipple, bobbin (for use with welded connecting piece-nut) etc. welding of end pieces
– All kinds of flexible hose kits
2- Knitting from stainless steel wire
– 14800 stove flexes
3- Annealing (For easier bending and 100% more extensibility)
– 15266 Indoor installation flexes
– 11353 Extendable flexes
4- Coating of tubing (insulation) with transparent or opaque PVC, polyolefin/polyethylene, pvc+polyethylene foam materials
– 14800 Furnace Connection Flexes (Transparent PVC)
– 15266 Indoor installation Flexes (Opaque PVC)
– 10670 Combi Connection Flexes (Polyethylene/Polyolefin)
– 10878 Meter Flexes (Polyethylene / Polyolefin)
– 11353 Extensible Flexes (Polyethylene/Polyolefin)
– Solar Flexes (PVC + Polyethylene sponge)
5- Closing
– 11353 Extendable Flexes
FLEX FLEXIBLE HOSE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND TYPES
A. MATERIAL QUALITY – CHEMICAL CONTENT
First of all, let us point out that the word "quality" in the title is not equivalent to the "qualified" we use in daily life, but is related to the elements contained in the metal material used. In other words, chromium, nickel, molybdenum etc. contained in the raw material. It refers to the types of materials created by the presence of elements in different proportions.
Flexible hoses are manufactured from stainless steel strip sheet. In order for a metal to be called "stainless steel", it must contain at least 10.5% of the Chromium element by weight.
Stainless steels (see: stainless steel) are generally very resistant to the formation of red rust (iron oxide). However, even many types of stainless steel corrode when exposed to chemically aggressive conditions. In other words, it is very important for the user to choose the material in accordance with the intended use or to guide the manufacturer correctly in this regard by providing the necessary information before ordering.
As we mentioned in the introduction, we can group the sheet metal qualities in hose production into two main classes. 304 / 304L and 316 / 316L.
** 304 / 304L – It has 8-12% nickel and 17.5-20% chromium content. All water, gas, etc. except aggressive environments such as salt water, extremely humid environment. They can be used in fluids.
** 316 / 316 L – contains 10-13% nickel, 16.5-18.5% chromium, 2-2.5% molybdenum. With molybdenum in its structure, salt water etc. They can be used even in aggressive conditions and show a highly resistant performance against corrosion.
* * The letter “L” at the end indicates low carbon content. The low carbon content prevents corrosion in the molecular structure that may occur during both welding and annealing processes (sensitization corrosion).
While the carbon content is maximum 0.08% in normal grades, this rate is maximum 0.03% in low carbon grades.
B. CORRUGATED SECTION TYPE
There are 2 main section types. Circumferential (annular) and helical (helical). In circumferential section hoses, the joints are perpendicular to the hose axis, which ensures ease of installation and use, as well as safety.
In addition, hoses of the circumferential section type do not create torsional forces in case of high pressure or pressure shocks and are therefore more resistant than the helical section type.
Nowadays, hoses with circumferential cross-sections, which have technically superior features, are preferred.
C. CORRUGATED TYPE
Stainless Flexible Hoses can be categorized into 3 main node types according to their usage areas.
Open, Standard and Closed (Compressed). The number of nodes on the proboscis increases from open to closed, and the nodes become more frequent.
The effects of Joint Types on compressive strength and flexibility are expressed in the table below.
KNOB TYPE COMPRESSIVE RESISTANCE FLEXIBILITY
CLOSED (COMPRESSED) + + + + +
STANDARD + + + + +
ON + + + + +
As can be seen in the table; As the number of nodes increases, flexibility increases, but pressure resistance decreases.
D. HOSE SET END PARTS
End parts of flexible hose sets such as nipples, bobbins (welded connectors), nuts are made of stainless steel, carbon steel, chrome-plated carbon steel, brass, chrome-plated brass, etc. in accordance with TS EN standards. They can be manufactured from the materials desired or in the design form specified in the standard. In non-standard applications, as in the case of hose, it is important for the user/manufacturer to choose the right material.
E. COVERING TYPES – AREAS OF USE AND BENEFITS
Coating can be applied on the stainless hose in accordance with the relevant standards or the needs required by the special demands of the usage conditions.
This coating is commonly known as "makaron" in the market.
Stainless flex hoses have a melting point of approximately 1400-1450 degrees (C). Therefore, they are quite resistant to possible fire. The outer coatings (sleeving) do not have any fire retardant properties. What is expected from the cover is that it protects the hose against cleaning chemicals and does not cause a respiratory hazard by releasing harmful chemicals into the environment during a fire.
Sleeve Case (Coating) Types
1- Transparent PVC: 14800 It is used in furnace connections and water flexes. Its main purpose is to prevent aggressive chemicals that may be used during house cleaning from damaging the hose and end parts. Apart from this, it also fulfills functions such as easy cleanability, decorative appearance, absorbing sound and vibration from water flexes and contributes extra to flexibility.
2- Opaque PVC: 15266 It is used in indoor plumbing flexes. It protects the hose against aggressive chemicals and external impacts. It provides easy cleanability and a decorative appearance.
3- Polyethylene / Polyolefin: It has a soft and durable structure. Thanks to their soft structure, they are used in all products that require extra vacuum coating. (Combi boiler flexes, Extendable flexes, Meter flexes, etc.)
4- PVC + Polyurethane sponge: This type of coating, which is produced in a composite form with polyethylene sponge and PVC on it, is resistant to high temperatures, rain, snow, mud, etc. It is preferred in solar system hoses with its high resistance to harsh natural conditions and very good heat (thermal) insulation ability. There is also an integrated Sensor cable.
5- Polyurethane sponge: It can be used for thermal insulation in water and fan coil flexes.
Things to Consider When Choosing Stainless Flex Hose
There are a few important issues to consider when choosing stainless flex hose. Here are these topics:
1. **Field of Application and Conditions of Use**: First, it is important to determine for which industrial or commercial application the hose will be used. Factors such as temperature, pressure, exposure to chemicals can be decisive in choosing the right hose.
2. **Material and Durability**: Stainless steel is durable and corrosion resistant, although different grades of stainless steel can be used. It is important to choose a material suitable for the application conditions.
3. **Flexibility and Flexibility**: Flexibility provides great convenience during assembly and installation. Flexibility is important so that the hose can adapt to the application area and installation requirements.
4. **Pressure Capacity**: The maximum pressure value that the hose can carry must comply with the application requirements. For high pressure systems, hoses with higher pressure capacity should be preferred.
5. **Ports and Compatibility**: It is important that the hose is compatible with the pipelines or equipment on which it will be used. The correct size and connection type must be selected.
6. **Safety Standards and Certifications**: Depending on the application area, hoses that comply with specific industrial standards and certifications should be selected. This ensures security and compliance.
7. **Ease of Maintenance and Service Support**: For long-term performance, the hose must be easy to maintain and service. Additionally, issues such as technical support and spare parts supply should also be taken into consideration when necessary.
8. **Cost and Long-Term Consideration**: In addition to initial costs, the long-term performance and durability of the hose should also be considered. It should be noted that a low-quality hose can lead to higher maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.
These factors are important issues to consider when choosing stainless flex hose. Application requirements and environmental conditions will determine the selection of the correct hose.