Hoses and Pipes: The Difference
Hoses and pipes are two types of tubes commonly used to transport fluids. Both of them operate in a similar manner: they are used to convey fluids from one place to another, moving them through a sterile medium free from contamination. Hoses and pipes can both serve as a pathway for varying types of fluids and are both used in many different industries. Despite achieving more or less the same thing, the two are used in different applications, made from different materials, and designed for different purposes. The main differences between hoses and pipes are their composition, flexibility, design, reinforcement, and application. This blog will cover each of these differences, providing further details on each of them.
Composition
Hoses and pipes have different compositions, and the materials they are made of also differ. Hoses are typically made from a combination of materials such as polyethylene, polyurethane, nylon, as well as natural or synthetic fibers. Adversely, pipes are made from materials including fiberglass, ceramic, plastic, metals, concrete, and other solid materials.
Flexibility
The main difference in the flexibility of hoses and pipes stems from the differing materials they are made from. Pipes are made from varying grades of materials such as polyethylene,
stainless steel, teflon, and other materials. Hoses, on the other hand, are made from things like polyvinyl chloride, cross-linked polyethylene, and other soft materials. Hoses’ materials make them more flexible, while pipes are constructed to provide a solid structure.
Design
Hoses are designed based on their intended application and the associated performance requirements. They are often customized and differ from other kinds of conveyance tubes based on pressure, weight, length, rating, and chemical compatibility. Pipes are designed to transport fluids needed in structural applications, railings, and fabrication. Pipes are used for long-term usage, and flow is supported by tees and elbows.
Reinforcement
The reinforcements of hoses and pipes are perhaps their most significant difference. Hose reinforcements are usually embedded, braided, wired, or twisted. Hoses are reinforced through the use of another material, usually a stiffer plastic with different external structures from that of the hose. Hoses require reinforcement whenever they are used in high pressure applications. Adversely, pipes require no reinforcement.
Application
The final difference between hoses and pipes is in their end-use. Due to their structural differences, they are used in different areas. Hoses are primarily used at home, while pipes are used both at home and in large-scale industrial applications.
