Selecting the best air hose for your compressor is not as easy as it seems. There is a plethora of options available that are meant to serve different purposes. You may go for a recoil hose or a standard one, a polyurethane or a neoprene one, or one of the many diameter sizes in air hoses for sale. This guide provides a few tips on how to select the best air hose, depending on work factors.
Length
The optimum length depends on the application. For example, if you have an automotive body shop that has to move from one point to another with your hose, you need a long one. However, you are looking for a hose for your drilling workshop, a shorter length would do.
Diameter
You measure hoses with their internal diameter. Manufacturers make standard sizes such as ¼, ½ or 3/8. You may also go for metric sizes such as 6mm, 8mm or 10 mm. The higher in internal diameter size, the higher the air capacity.
The air requirement for your tools is the most significant determinant of your choice. Small appliances like hand drills can run efficiently with 6mm diameter hoses. On the other hand, larger tools would need an 8mm or 10mm hose. Most machines will take in higher air volume without a problem. Therefore, pick a higher diameter size hose if working with multiple devices.
Material
Your choice of material determines the longevity, performance, weight and flexibility of the air hose. Therefore, it is essential to check your work dynamics to determine which of the characteristics matter to you the most. Nylon is the most popular because it is light, transportable and comes at a reasonable price. However, it is prone to tear and may be damaged by poor storage.
Neoprene is heavier but more dependable than nylon. It can be used for both industrial and home applications as it is resistant to cuts and kinks. It can also perform well even on temperatures as low as -4 degrees F. On the other hand, Polyurethane is the highest quality of the three. It is light and easy to transport and can work in low temperatures of up to -22 degrees F. However, it is not as flexible as others are and is prone to kinks. It is best used for recoil hoses.
In order to choose the right air hose for your compressor, do not make a choice based on price alone. Instead, pick a hose that makes it easy to deliver pressurised air at your workplace and one that lasts for a considerable time. Besides, check your work characteristics to choose the most suitable one. If replacing an existing one, check the air hose fittings so that you purchase one that can work with them.