The Science Behind Industrial Rubber Hoses

In various manufacturing industries like construction, automotive, aerospace, food, and beverage, rubber hoses are commonly used. They are exceptional for transporting gases, liquids, and abrasives at high pressures, ultimately connecting one part of the system to another. They have various benefits over other conventional materials and are preferred primarily because of their flexibility, resistance to temperature, abrasion, and chemical resistance.

However, the popularity of industrial rubber hoses should not be mistaken for its simple characteristics. Generally, industrial rubber hoses undergo chemical and physical processes that form the crux of their effectiveness and durability. In this article, we will dive into the science behind industrial rubber hoses and discuss how they are made.

The Role of Elastomers in Rubber Hoses

Elastomers are a type of polymer that exhibits elastic properties, meaning they can stretch and return to their original shape. Two predominantly used elastomers in the production of industrial rubber hoses are synthetic rubber and natural rubber.

Natural Rubber: Extracted from the latex of the Hevea brasiliensis tree, natural rubber is the most common elastomer type and has gained popularity over the years because of its sustainability and biodegradability.

Synthetic Rubber: Unlike natural rubber, synthetic rubber is artificially made through a process called polymerization. It is more resilient and has properties that natural rubber does not have like wear resistance, chemical and oil resistance, and is resistant to temperature.

The Reinforcement Layer

Reinforcement layers are cloth or wire braids woven into the rubber hose to enhance its strength and pressure resistance. Braided hoses contain wires that are woven in a spiral or braid pattern, whereas cloth hoses have cords that are woven along the length of the hose. Their placement depends on the type of hose required to meet certain conditions (bend, temperature, pressure, or abrasion resistance).

The Curing Process

Curing is the process in which the rubber hose is made. Before this process, the elastomer and reinforcement layer are left to shape and size using molds, and the rubber is then vulcanized through the application of heat, pressure, and specific chemicals to form the finished product. The curing process is critical and is performed to ensure that no air pockets or voids are left in the hose, otherwise, it would negatively impact its durability, flexibility, and strength.

The Final Result

The finished product of the industrial rubber hoses depends on various factors such as the type and blend of elastomer, reinforcement layer, construction, and curing process. Industrial rubber hoses can be made to withstand the high pressure of abrasive materials and environments like those found in construction and mining. They can also be designed to transport food and beverages and maintain hygiene and sanitation in the process.

Conclusion:

Industrial rubber hoses are widely used in various industries today, each with its unique purposes and demands. The science behind industrial rubber hoses is a combination of the properties of elastomers, the reinforcement layer, the curing process, and the final product. Understanding the science behind industrial rubber hoses helps to ensure that the right type of hose is used for a specific application, and they meet the required criteria for durability, strength, and safety.