Rubber hoses are common in many industries. They carry various materials, such as air, water, and oil. But in daily use, hoses can develop issues like leaks or bursts. So, how do you maintain rubber hoses to prevent these problems?
First, inspect your rubber hose regularly
Rubber pipes age over time, thanks to temperature, moisture, and air exposure. What’s more, their joints wear down a bit with use. That’s why you should check your rubber hose regularly—usually once a week. This way, you can spot problems early and replace the hose promptly.
Next, take steps to reduce friction on the rubber hose
You might drag rubber hoses across surfaces during use—pressure washer hoses are a good example. Rubber is wear-resistant, but friction can still damage it. At Orientflex, we recommend using a spiral protective sleeve. Ours is made from modified PP material. It blends PP’s elasticity with PE’s friction resistance, making it great for protecting flexible rubber hoses. Tests show that under 1.9MPa of pressure, it only wears down by half a millimeter after 1,000 kilometers of continuous grinding. With this sleeve, you won’t have to worry about friction. Plus, it can extend the hose’s lifespan by at least three years.
Finally, clean the rubber hose before and after use
During use, dust, oil, and other pollutants can stick to the hose. Over time, these can corrode and damage the outer rubber layer. So, make sure to clean the hose regularly. After cleaning, dry the inside and outside thoroughly. Then store it in a dry, dark place.