When performance, durability, and safety are a must, metal hose assemblies offer a level of reliability that rubber and composite hoses can’t offer. These hoses are built to endure high pressure, extreme temperatures, and corrosive environments. That’s why they are a staple in many industries including oil refining, petrochemical, bulk material handling, commercial food service, and much more.
This buyer’s guide explores how metal hose assemblies are constructed, the pros and cons of this hose type, and tips for understanding if this is the right hose type for your needs.
Metal hose assemblies are intentionally designed for strength and performance. Their typical construction consists of a few key components:
The layered construction results in a host that is both flexible and maintains structural integrity, making it perfect for both static and dynamic systems.
Metal hose assemblies can excel in applications where traditional hoses may fall short. They are designed for extreme temperature resistance. The metal performs well in both high temperature environments (up to 1500°F) as well as extremely low temperatures. The metal is also resistant to corrosive fluids and gases, making it ideal for chemical plants and similar uses. Unlike rubber or composite hoses, metal does not allow gas fermentation, and its non-combustible nature makes it suitable for fire-safe applications. With proper installation, metal hose assemblies can outlast other hose types in even the most demanding environments.
Despite all of the advantages,metal hose assemblies aren’t the perfect choice for every job and there are a few important things to consider. One disadvantage that you’ll notice immediately is that a metal hose is very heavy compared to other hose options. That extra weight can be a major drawback depending on where the hose will be used. Another thing to consider is that while flexible, metal hose assemblies are not as bendable as rubber hoses, especially in tight spaces or moving applications. The materials and fabrication process makes a metal hose more expensive upfront than many alternatives. Metal hose assemblies also require very precise installation to avoid kinking, over-bending, or mechanical failure due to stress on the tube. It’s important to balance the hose’s durability benefits against these few limitations when selecting your next hose.
Feature
Composite Hose
Stainless Steel Hose
Rubber Hose
Flexibility
✅ Very Flexible
❌ Less Flexible
✅ Flexible
Chemical Resistance
✅ Excellent (Customizable)
✅ Good
❌ Limited
Weight
✅ Lightweight
❌ Heavy
✅ Light
Durability
❌ Moderate
✅ High
❌ Low
Pressure Rating
✅ Medium-High
✅ Medium
Temperature Range
❌ Moderate (-40°F to 250°F)
✅ High (-400°F to 1,200°F)
❌ Limited (-40°F to 200°F)
If your application involves high temperatures, extreme pressure, or requires superior durability and corrosion resistance, a metal hose is often the right solution. It’s built to perform in challenging environments where other hose types may fall short.
However, if your system demands lighter weight, greater flexibility, and operates within the pressure and temperature limits of rubber or composite hoses, those may be a better fit.
If you have any questions, our guide for choosing the right hose for your application is a great resource. But you can also contact us and our experts can help answer all of your questions.
