Multi-layered Benefits for Extreme Fuel & Chemical Transfer Applications

Composite hoses are not a new invention but over the years they have been rigorously tried and tested as an extremely reliable and secure method of transferring various forms of media at extreme temperatures. The product has even made Formula 1 safer than ever for the drivers and support team, creating an early warning system if something is wrong.

There are many key advantages of using composite hose against traditional metal and rubber alternatives particularly where users project requires the transfer of aggressive chemicals. True flexibility is constantly retained at very extreme temperatures. This flexibility compensates for any vibration, movement or misalignment in the fluid transfer system, making the hose much easier to handle than a rubber or metal hose.

As composite hoses are constructed using thermoplastic materials, the product can be prone to heat sensitivity because as temperatures rise it can sometimes lose strength and rigidity. Global leader in composite hose manufacture, Dantec has developed a unique solution to this issue of heat drawback.

The company manufactures the hose with multiple high temperature tension membranes that are built into the wall of the hose. These high tensile strength layers considerably reduce elongation and plastic deformation of the hose wall.

Dantec also ensures that all of its composite hoses are manufactured using a closer wire pitch, this ultimately increases the resistance impact of the hose and reduces the risk of the product over-bending. The end result is the hose has a significantly better ‘force to bend’ rating and now weighs up to 30% less than more bulky and less flexible rubber hoses.

Robust construction means that composite hose has an exceptional service life, making it a cost efficient investment. Dantec apply ECTFE Lining to their hoses. This high tech fluoropolymer has strong chemical resistance properties virtually identical to PTFE, however its mechanical strength is significantly greater and its permeability to gases including steam is considerably lower. The product is also protected from corrosion and attack by other liquids, UV rays and ozone gases by its tough PVC-infused fabric cover.

Superior structure, multi-layered construction and the fact that composite hose is not vulcanized or bonded like rubber hoses consistently prevents catastrophic failures in a variety of demanding applications. The integrity of the product is maintained even after a chemical intrusion by the tension of the interlocking inner and outer wire helices. Elevated temperatures could still change the chemical resistance rating of the hose - to ensure maximum safety for a chemical transfer always contact a certified supplier such as Dantec before use to check the relevant chemical resistance properties. With this in mind, every composite hose assembly is pressure tested to a minimum of 1.5 times the hose’s maximum working pressure and in accordance with EN 13765 2010. All Dantec standard composite hoses are constructed with a safety: burst ratio of at least 1:4 and heavy duty large bore hoses 1:5 (as per IMO code).

Electrical continuity from end-to-end gives the composite hose a resistance of less than 2.5 ohms per metre in sizes up to and including 50 mm and 1.0 ohms per metre in sizes above. This is maintained by securing the end fittings to the inner and outer wires. To maximize performance Dantec composite hoses are constructed with electrically conductive seals to guarantee continuity in the scenario of a wire being broken. In order to provide the widest chemical resistance, it is important to check that the manufacturer is in compliance with the relevant legislation - this is geared around preventing sparking and arcing hazards during movement in and out of its application.

For a variety of performance requirements and according to the specific project needs composite hose can be constructed to a range of different designs and have the ability to carry various materials. This is due to the fact that the thermoplastic layers can be processed from different materials.

Composites can be made using a wide range of specialist manufacturing techniques. This ensures the proper gauge and pitch of the inner and outer wires to ensure safety, conformity and consistency of the composite hose every time.

Laminate patterns and ply build-up in a part can also be tailored to give the required mechanical properties in various applications. Along with other accessories the product can be assembled with cam and groove couplings, floating and reducing flanges, and threaded couplings. Composite hoses can also be manufactured with glow in the dark strips which charge during the day and glow during the night to offer an additional safety benefit to people on the site.

When searching for a solution that needs to be lightweight, flexible, durable, multi-use and ultra-safe, composite hose is the perfect option. Calling on more than 40 years manufacturing and technical excellence Dantec is now recognized as a global leader in composite hose technology and innovation. The company prides itself on manufacturing hoses from the highest specification materials and to the most stringent procedures. This in turn means that Dantec always produces the highest quality and most comprehensive range of composite hoses.