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Flexible Hoses
Metal flexible hoses are essential for accommodating movement, vibration and thermal expansion in piping systems. Made from stainless steel or corrosion-resistant alloys, they deliver the highest flexibility options in fluid transfer applications across various industries. Designed for adequate pressure and temperature resistance, these hoses ensure safe and efficient operation of complex piping networks.
What Are Metal Flexible Hoses
A metal flexible hose is a flexible connection typically comprising:
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A corrugated metal hose (commonly stainless steel) providing flexibility;
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Braid reinforcement to manage pressure capability and improve durability;
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End fittings (flanges, threaded ends, weld ends or bespoke interfaces).
You may also see these terms used in specifications:
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Stainless steel flexible hose;
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Braided metal hose;
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Corrugated metal hose;
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Metal hose assembly;
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Flexible metallic hose.
Metal flexible hoses are generally selected to:
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Absorb vibration and reduce transmitted loads;
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Accommodate thermal movement and alignment tolerance;
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Protect connected equipment from nozzle loads and fatigue damage;
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Enable maintenance-friendly connections in constrained installations;
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Transfer of aggressive or hazardous media (steam, chemicals, fuels, gasses, cryogenic liquids).
Where Metal Flexible Hoses Are Typically Used
Metal flexible hoses are commonly installed in:
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Pump and compressor connections to reduce vibration transmission;
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Machinery and engine services, including auxiliary systems and skid pipework;
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Power generation and CHP utilities and equipment connections;
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Plumbing and HVAC for water transfer systems;
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Systems with frequent maintenance access needs or where rigid piping alignment is difficult.
If your requirement is primarily a movement compensator for more extreme thermal growth or pressure change, then Metal Expansion Joints may be more appropriate. Metallic flexible hoses are primarily used for lesser thermal growth, where small-amplitude movements and ease of installation are the main considerations.
Hose Selection Basics (What Drives Performance)
Correct hose selection is duty-led. Key considerations include:
Pressure, temperature and media
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Operating and design pressure;
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Operating and maximum temperature;
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Media compatibility (steam, water, air, oil, chemicals, exhaust gas, etc.).
Assembly design
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Hose diameter and length;
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Bend radius requirements and space constraints;
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Braid configuration and reinforcement needs;
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End fittings and interface standards.
Movement and service life
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Required movement type: angular, offset or axial thermal movement;
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Movement frequency and expected service life;
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Vibration conditions (amplitude and frequency).
Installation and reliability
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Avoiding torsion and twist during installation;
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Ensuring adequate bend radius in service;
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Supporting the hose correctly to avoid wear and fatigue failures.
Constructed Options & Features
We support metal flexible hose assemblies tailored to duty, including:
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Stainless steel corrugated hose for flexibility and corrosion resistance (material chosen to suit duty);
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Single braid or multiple braid layers where required for increasing pressure containment and durability;
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End fittings matched to your system: flanged, threaded, weld ends, camlocks or bespoke interfaces;
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Protective features where needed for external environment or mechanical damage risk;
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Inspection and testing scope aligned to your project requirements.
If your application is fatigue-critical or requires a controlled movement compensator, review Metal Bellows and Metal Expansion Joints as well.
Typical Applications (Problem-Led)
Metal flexible hoses are often specified to solve:
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Pump vibration causing flange leaks or fatigue cracking in rigid pipework;
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Misalignment between equipment and pipework during installation;
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Thermal growth in short runs where a hose is more practical than an expansion joint;
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Maintenance access issues where a flexible connection simplifies removal and refit.
Inspection, Testing & Documentation
Depending on your project specification, hose assemblies can be supported with:
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Dimensional checks and interface verification;
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Pressure testing and leak testing where specified;
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Documentation packs aligned to traceability and project needs.
The exact scope depends on your application and the specification you provide.
How To Request A Quote (What We Need)
To quote for metal flexible hoses, please send:
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Line size and required hose bore and assembly length;
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Operating and design pressure and temperature;
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Media and any corrosion/compatibility concerns;
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Required movement (bending, offset, thermal) and installation constraints;
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Vibration conditions if connected to rotating equipment;
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End fitting details (flange standard, drilling, threads, weld preps, bespoke interfaces);
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Any required inspection, testing and documentation expectations;
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Quantity and delivery needs.
Send drawings or specifications and we’ll recommend an appropriate hose configuration and quote accordingly.
Are metal flexible hoses the same as metal expansion joints? No. Metal flexible hoses are flexible connectors that accommodate vibration, misalignment and limited, incidental movements in piping systems. Metal expansion joints are engineered movement compensators for pipework thermal growth with defined movement control.
Do you supply stainless steel flexible hoses? Yes. Stainless steel corrugated hose with braid reinforcement is standard, with materials selected to suit duty, SS 321 and SS 316 being the most commonly used grades.
Can metal hoses handle vibration? Yes, when selected and installed correctly. Hose length, bend radius, braid and restraint strategy all influence vibration performance and service life.
What is the fastest way to get a quotation? Send the required length, pressure, temperature, media, end fittings, and any movement or vibration details.
Read more FAQs here
