SUNHOSE · BUYER GUIDE
Hose Terminology: A Buyer’s Technical Glossary
A useful hose specification separates dimensions, construction, operating limits and supply format. This glossary explains the fields used in Sunhose model tables and the questions buyers should resolve before comparing quotations. A term describes what to check; it does not supply a missing model rating.
Dimensions and supply format
| Term | Meaning | What to state in an inquiry |
|---|---|---|
| Inside diameter (ID) | Diameter of the internal passage, normally listed in millimetres in the model tables. | Required ID and tolerance, along with the connection requirements. |
| Outside diameter (OD) | Diameter across the outside of a round hose. | Required OD and the fitting or clamp arrangement. |
| Nominal size | A convenient size designation, often in inches. It is not a complete dimensional specification. | The nominal label plus the actual model ID and OD. |
| Wall thickness | Thickness of the hose wall. It is a separately listed field for some constructions. | The catalog value and tolerance; identify how it is measured. |
| Coil length | Length of hose supplied in one roll or coil. | Length per coil and number of coils, not only a total order quantity. |
| Cut length | A specified length cut from bulk hose. | Finished length, tolerance and end treatment. |
| Hose assembly | Hose supplied with end connections or other fitted components. | Hose model, fitting details, attachment method and the assembly requirements. |
For example, the layflat model SH40051 lists a nominal size of 2" and an ID of 51 mm. The steel wire model SHSS5056 has the same nominal size label but an ID of 50 mm. Use the actual dimensions when preparing a fitting inquiry. Sources: layflat hose and steel wire hose.
Pressure, temperature and installation
Working pressure (WP) is the published pressure rating used when assessing the intended operation under the applicable conditions. Specify your maximum operating pressure, temperature and duty so that the proposed model and assembly can be reviewed together.
Burst pressure (BP) describes a failure-pressure test value or requirement under stated test conditions. It is not a permissible continuous working pressure. Do not replace a missing WP with BP or calculate a universal operating limit from a guessed ratio.
Vacuum rating describes performance under a stated pressure below ambient, with defined conditions. Positive-pressure ratings do not establish vacuum suitability. If the table does not state a rating, request the model-specific information rather than treating the omission as zero or as unlimited capability.
Operating temperature range concerns the conditions under which a model may be used. Fluid temperature, ambient temperature and the applicable pressure relationship need to be considered together. A storage-temperature statement is not automatically an operating-temperature rating.
Minimum bend radius is the smallest permissible bend radius under the applicable conditions. Ask for the model value and its measurement convention. The visible diameter of a shipped coil does not establish the permitted installation bend radius.
Surge or pulsation is a change in pressure during operation. Describe the equipment and duty to the supplier; a normal gauge reading may not describe every pressure condition the assembly experiences.
Construction and compatibility
Tube or lining is the inner layer that contacts the conveyed medium. Name the fluid or material precisely, including concentration where relevant, when requesting compatibility information.
Reinforcement is the supporting construction within the hose, such as textile yarn, spiral wire or wire braid. The reinforcement description helps distinguish products but does not itself establish all pressure, vacuum or bending limits.
Cover is the exterior layer. Its requirements depend on the surroundings: handling, abrasion, weather and contact with other materials. Ask about the selected compound and model rather than assuming identical behavior across a material family.
Layflat describes a construction that collapses flat when empty. Select a layflat model by its application and published data; the word alone does not specify a pressure grade or a suitability for suction service.
Suction and discharge identify different roles in a transfer system. A pump inlet and outlet can require different hose constructions and ratings. See the steel wire versus layflat comparison for a purchasing worksheet.
Inspection and ordering language
Dimensional tolerance is the allowed variation from a specified dimension. Agree the limit and measurement method before inspecting samples or production.
Sampling and acceptance criteria define which items are checked, how they are checked and how results are evaluated. “Quality checked” does not specify a sampling plan or guarantee that a particular report is included.
Compliance document is evidence with a defined scope. A document must be checked against the product, formulation, application and destination requirement; a logo or a reference to a standard is not a substitute for that review.
MOQ means minimum order quantity for a defined product configuration and unit. Distinguish metres of bulk hose from pieces of fittings or finished assemblies, and request the minimum for each model, size and supply format.
Lead time needs a start point and delivery scope. Ask whether the quoted period starts after order confirmation, approved artwork, sample approval or another agreed milestone, and distinguish production from transport.
OEM marking and packaging cover buyer-specific identifiers, artwork and packing instructions. Specify the requested changes and ask what is available for the selected configuration; the term does not establish a free customization or tooling policy.
For a quote comparison, combine this glossary with How to Compare PVC Air Hose Quotes. For numerical conversions, use the existing hose unit reference and converter. Contact Sunhose with the model, intended use, operating conditions and quantity.