PVC Steel Wire Hose Sizes: Why the Same ID Is Not the Same Specification
An inquiry for “1-inch PVC steel wire hose, 50 metres per coil” can describe several different products. The bore and coil length may match while outside diameter, weight and listed working pressure differ. Comparing the price per metre before checking those details can mean comparing different specifications.
The practical starting point is the model code plus its complete specification row. Here is how to read the dimensions and compare an offer using examples from the Sunhose PVC steel wire hose catalog.
Sunhose product photograph showing the hose construction. The photograph does not identify the individual models in the table below.
1. Read nominal size, ID and OD separately
Nominal size is the catalog's inch label. Inside diameter (ID) describes the bore; outside diameter (OD) describes the outside of the hose. Record the stated millimetre dimensions as well as the inch label. For example, the three models below are listed as 1 inch with a 25 mm ID. Do not replace the catalog dimension with 25.4 mm simply by converting the inch label.
ID is one input to flow and hose-tail selection. OD affects the space the hose occupies and the choice of attachment components. Neither dimension alone confirms that a hose, fitting and clamp form a suitable assembly.
2. Compare three actual 1-inch models
These entries reproduce selected fields from the Sunhose product table, checked on October 11, 2026. They are catalog values, not measurements of the photographed samples. Confirm the current specification and applicable operating conditions in your quotation.
| Model | ID (mm) | OD (mm) | Length (m/coil) | Working pressure (bar) | Weight (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SHSS2529 | 25 | 29 | 50 | 4 | 0.26 |
| SHSS2530 | 25 | 30 | 50 | 4 | 0.35 |
| SHSS2533 | 25 | 33 | 50 | 5 | 0.55 |
All three share a listed bore and coil length. SHSS2529 and SHSS2530 have different outside diameters and weights, yet the same listed working pressure. SHSS2533 has a larger OD and a different pressure value. Weight is not a formula for pressure rating, and these rows do not establish a universal relationship between thickness and performance.
For a simple dimensional comparison, the nominal radial wall calculation is (OD − ID) ÷ 2. It gives 2 mm, 2.5 mm and 4 mm respectively. These are calculated dimensions, not measured minimum wall thicknesses or manufacturing tolerances. Agree the measurement method and tolerances separately.
3. Match the assembly, not just the inch label
Changing from 25 × 29 mm to 25 × 33 mm keeps the listed bore unchanged but increases OD by 4 mm. Reusing the previous clamp or sleeve without checking its specified range may therefore be inappropriate.
Send the proposed hose model, ID, OD and dimensional tolerances to the fitting supplier or assembler. Ask them to confirm the hose tail, attachment method and complete assembly rating. A pump's connection label or thread size is not a substitute for the hose-tail dimensions. Follow the component supplier's assembly instructions; this size comparison is not an installation procedure.
4. Compare the same quantity and supply format
Weight per metre also helps explain handling differences. Multiplying the listed weight by 50 m gives calculated hose-only coil weights of 13 kg, 17.5 kg and 27.5 kg for the three models in table order. Packaging, fittings and pallets are excluded. These figures are estimates from catalog values, not verified shipment weights or freight quotations.
Sunhose packaging examples. Confirm roll dimensions, packing format and gross weight for the model and quantity being quoted.
Compare offers on the same length per coil, total metres, product code, packing requirements and delivery terms. For freight planning, request packed dimensions and gross weight; the hose's OD alone does not determine package volume. A price per coil is only comparable after its length and specification are known.
5. Keep unlisted requirements separate
The current product table does not document a vacuum limit, and the product page does not provide one confirmed temperature range for the entire series. Request the applicable limits for the exact model, medium and duty. A positive working-pressure value does not establish full-vacuum suitability, and burst pressure is not an operating pressure.
Also state any chemical-contact, food-contact or electrical requirements. Transparency and visible steel reinforcement do not, by themselves, establish those properties or approvals. Ask for confirmation and supporting documents for the proposed configuration.
6. Send a specification that can be quoted
Use this short inquiry format to make the offers easier to compare:
- Product: PVC steel wire hose; requested model code, or required ID and OD if the model is undecided.
- Duty: medium, temperature, working pressure, any suction requirement and routing constraints.
- Supply: bulk coils or finished assemblies; length per coil or assembly and total quantity.
- Connections: fitting details and required assembly documentation, where applicable.
- Order details: destination, packing, marking and required product documents.
Ask the supplier to identify any proposed substitution by model and list the differences. Keep the confirmed specification with the order. Once the model is agreed, use the bulk hose inspection checklist to plan shipment verification.
Does “1 inch” mean every hose will fit the same fittings?
No. Check the stated ID and OD, tolerances and the fitting manufacturer's requirements. An identical nominal label does not confirm assembly compatibility.
Should I automatically choose the heaviest model?
No. Choose the model that meets the confirmed duty and assembly requirements. More weight alone does not demonstrate a higher working pressure, an acceptable vacuum rating or a particular approval.
Send your required dimensions and application to Sunhose for a model-specific quotation.