Coolant hoses - Page 2

How is the coolant hose constructed?

A standard coolant hose is constructed in a relatively simple way, as it consists of three main layers. These include:

• inner layer - is resistant to glycol cooling water and high temperatures;
• reinforcement - usually comes in the form of cord or textile braid, which increases the hose's resistance to working pressure; 
• outer layer - guarantees resistance to high temperatures and harsh environmental conditions during operation.

As for the manufacturing material, coolant hoses are mostly made of EPDM rubber. Sometimes manufacturers also use other rubber compounds (e.g. CR) when the hose comes into contact with mineral oil-based substances.

It is also worth mentioning that some varieties of coolant hoses have additional reinforcement in the form of a spiral (usually made of steel wire), which provides them with vacuum resistance.

How is a segmented coolant hose constructed?

As we have already mentioned, the segmented coolant hose is a separate type of coolant hose. It is used for low-pressure transfer and spraying of oils, emulsions, water, and air.

Its design, on the other hand, is quite different from traditional hoses, as it consists of separate segments (called beads) made of plastic, which can be combined into a single cable and separated as desired.

In addition, you will enhance the installation with additional components such as valves, nozzles, or magnetic feet. This greatly facilitates the installation of hoses in the limited space of the CNC machine.

These types of hoses also come in a solid metal version.

What to pay attention to when choosing a coolant hose?

When you are choosing a coolant hose, be guided by several important parameters. These are:

• Operating temperature range - It plays a very important role when it comes to the cooling system. At too high (or too low) a temperature, the hose loses its properties, posing a risk of failure. 
• Permissible operating pressure - Determines the maximum continuous operating pressure of the hose. Coolant hoses are usually used for low-pressure applications, no higher than 6 bar.
• Vacuum resistance - Determines whether a tube is suitable for suction of a medium. It needs adequate reinforcement in the form of a spiral for this. 
• Nominal inner diameter - Always size the hose to suit the installation in question so that it is leak-proof. Also, consider that the diameter affects the allowable working pressure and several other hose parameters. 
• Minimum bend radius - Indicates how much you can bend the hose without damaging it. If you exceed the allowable limit, the wall of the hose will kink, making it impossible to continue using it safely.

In addition to the above, also consider what you need the hose for.

Remember that we use specialized segmented hoses for CNC machines. On the other hand, for working in contact with mineral oil-based substances, a hose made from a different rubber compound (e.g. CR) that is resistant to liquids of this type is used.