As the name implies, water rubber hoses transport water from a water source to another location. Rubber hoses have many applications, such as household practices like gardening and industrial activities such as mining.

With several water rubber hose types available, selecting a hose for a specific purpose can get confusing. Questions like what material you should opt for, and the hose’s construction begin to arise. Fortunately, this five-part article provides the answers to these questions. Let’s get started.

Part 1: Water hoses come from several different materials

Thermoplastic Rubber

Hoses made of thermoplastic rubber combine plastic’s performance and toughness with rubber’s flexibility. They are adaptable and can function well in temperatures as high as 135°C.

PVC

PVC hoses are a cost-effective option for indoor light-duty tasks. This material is not ideal for outdoor use due to its vulnerability to extreme temperatures. However, they are still suitable for indoor use.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane hoses are heavier than rubber hoses, making them suitable for heavy-duty and outdoor use. Furthermore, these hoses handle extreme temperatures and minor nicks better. 

Silicone

Silicone is a flexible, long-lasting, and versatile hose material. This material retains shape when exposed to high temperatures. So, you can use it to transport hot water.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene hoses are very resilient, so it’s no surprise that industries use them. Additionally, this material is chemically resistant.

Which rubber offers the best water resistance

EPDM rubber has the best water resistance. This polymer comprises propylene, ethylene, and a diene monomer. It is resistant to wear caused by water, UV exposure, and heat. EPDM is a common synthetic rubber that helps provide resistance to water.

What is the temperature range of the water rubber hose?

Water rubber hoses have an operating temperature range of -20℃ to +80℃. However, this range may be higher (or lower) depending on the type of runner used. For example, thermoplastic rubber’s temperature range is from -30°C to +150°C.

Can it deliver hot water?

A water hose’s ability to transport hot water depends on the material used. Nevertheless, most water hoses can deliver hot water. However, pay attention to the hose’s material to determine if it is suitable for transporting hot water.

Part 2: Construction of Water Rubber Hose

What is the construction of a water rubber hose?

Most rubber water hoses comprise an inner tube, reinforcement middle layer, and outer layer. Let’s discuss these layers below.

Inner Tube

The inner tube transfers the liquid. Most of the time, it is made of neoprene, nitrile rubber, or a combination of both. Remember that corrosive fluids shorten hoses’ lifespan, which is why different rubber grades are used.

Reinforcement Middle Layer

The middle layer adds strength to the rubber hose. This material wraps over steel wire and polyester fiber. Moreover, they can be single or multiple layers depending on the use.

Outer Layer

The hose’s cover comprises NBR, NR, CPE, or a combination of these materials. The outer layer shields the hose from damage due to environmental conditions.

What is the pressure rate from a water rubber hose?

A water rubber hose’s pressure rate depends on several factors, such as the length and diameter of the hose. However, the average pressure rate of a water rubber hose is around 50 PSI, but it can go as high as 80.

Part 3: Standards of Water Rubber Hose

How many standards to form rubber hose for water

Standards for rubber hoses are uniform globally. In most cases, molding, extrusion, hand layup, calendaring, and spiral wrapping are the production forms adopted. The process of extrusion is commonly used to produce small-diameter water rubber hoses. On the other hand, rubber hoses with larger diameters are produced through the spiral wrapping.

Part 4: Application of Water Rubber Hose

Where the water rubber hoses are used popularly

Rubber water hoses are popularly used in households, restaurants, and hospitals. Industries like chemicals, mining, and petroleum use water hoses frequently. Furthermore, water rubber hoses are also important tools in marine, aviation, construction, etc.

Can you use a rubber hose for drinking water?

We won’t recommend drinking water from a hose unless you are sure the hose is phthalate-free. Phthalates are a class of industrial chemicals that harm the kidneys, liver, lungs, and reproductive system. Even low levels of lead can be harmful to one’s health. 

Is a rubber garden hose good?

Rubber garden hoses are durable and strong, but they are also expensive. These hoses are also difficult to carry around the garden. Remember, rubber can transport hot water and is less prone to kinking and cracking. Rubber garden hoses are best for heavy-duty use. 

Part 5: Repair of Water Rubber Hose

How to repair rubber water hose

A rubber water hose is a reliable tool for various purposes when in good condition. However, a leaking hose will make this tool unreliable and even unusable, depending on the damage.  Here’s how to repair a rubber water hose.

Change the hose gasket

If you attach a hose to a water source and notice leaks, the gasket could be the culprit. As a result, you will need to replace it. To replace the gasket, disconnect the hose and detach the gasket inside the hose’s coupling with pliers. Afterward, place the new hose gasket into the hose coupling.

Fix small holes using electrical tape.

If there are tiny holes in a rubber water hose, electrical tape can repair them. Repairing a rubber water hose with tape is easy. First, identify the pierced area of the hose and wrap the tape over it. Ensure the tape overlaps the punctured area several times for a more effective fix.

Patch large holes using a hose mender

If there are bigger holes in the hose, a hose mender will do better than electrical tape. First, cut the torn area of the hose. Then, connect the ends of the cut hose to the mender’s connectors. Lastly, tighten the mender by twisting the two collars clockwise, and the hose will be functional again. 

Replace the hose coupling

If the hose’s coupling leaks after replacing the gasket, it is likely faulty. Remember, before changing the hose’s coupling, select a coupling with the same diameter as the hose. To fix the defective coupling, use a hose cutter to cut it off the faulty coupling. Then, insert the hose’s end into the coupling’s connector and tighten the collar clockwise.

Can hose pipe be recycled?

Unfortunately, a hose pipe cannot be recycled. The reason for this is not far-fetched. The materials used in hose production are simply not recyclable,  such as PVC or Polyurethane. Furthermore, hoses tend to become entangled in garbage trucks and recycling centers. So, recyclers tend to avoid repurposing hoses.

Final Thoughts

Water rubber hoses are essential tools in several industries and households worldwide. These tools are made using different types of rubber, each with unique characteristics. Rubber water hoses have three layers that are resistant to high temperatures. With the information above, you now have all you need to select a water rubber hose for your application. Browse through our collection of industrial hoses and purchase the one that best fits your needs! Should you require more information, contact us at Sinopulse Hose and Fittings.