Industrial air hoses are the lifelines of any pneumatic system, responsible for delivering compressed air from the compressor to power tools, machinery, and automation. Unlike a simple tube, a high-quality air hose is a precisely engineered product designed to be durable, flexible, and safe under pressure.
This guide from Glory Engineering Supplies serves as a complete technical reference. It is designed to help engineers, supervisors, and technicians select the right hose material (Rubber, PVC, Hybrid), pressure rating, and size for their specific application, from a small workshop to a heavy-duty construction site.
We stock heavy-duty rubber (EPDM/NBR) hoses that resist oil, abrasion, and weather, as well as lightweight, flexible Polyurethane/Hybrid hoses for ease of use.
Our inventory covers all common applications, from standard 200/300 PSI lines to heavy-duty 400-500 PSI Jackhammer and high-pressure service hoses.
We supply all standard sizes, from 1/4" for powering small tools to large 2" and 3" hoses for main compressor lines and heavy equipment.
We provide complete, ready-to-use hose assemblies with professionally crimped or clamped fittings, including quick disconnects, NPT/BSP ends, and Chicago couplings.
The material of an air hose defines its flexibility, durability, and suitability for the job.
| Hose Type | Construction | Key Characteristics & Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Air Hose (EPDM/NBR) | Synthetic rubber tube (often oil-resistant NBR), textile reinforcement, durable EPDM rubber cover. |
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| PVC Air Hose | PVC tube, textile reinforcement, smooth PVC cover. |
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| Hybrid / Polyurethane (PU) | PU or advanced Rubber/PVC blend, textile reinforcement. |
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| Jackhammer Hose | Heavy-duty rubber tube, 2- or 4-ply high-tensile textile reinforcement, thick abrasion-resistant cover (often yellow). |
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This chart shows the typical Maximum Working Pressure (MWP) for various air hose types. Always use a hose with a pressure rating that exceeds your compressor's output.
| Hose Size (ID) | General Purpose (PVC/Hybrid) | Heavy Duty Rubber (EPDM) | Jackhammer Hose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" (6mm) | 200 - 300 PSI | 200 - 300 PSI | N/A |
| 3/8" (10mm) | 200 - 300 PSI | 200 - 300 PSI | N/A |
| 1/2" (13mm) | 200 PSI | 200 - 300 PSI | 400 - 500 PSI |
| 3/4" (19mm) | 200 PSI | 200 - 300 PSI | 400 - 500 PSI |
| 1" (25mm) | 200 PSI | 200 - 300 PSI | 400 - 500 PSI |
| 1-1/4" (32mm) | 150 PSI | 200 PSI | 300 PSI |
| 1-1/2" (38mm) | 150 PSI | 200 PSI | 300 PSI |
| 2" (51mm) | 150 PSI | 200 PSI | 300 PSI |
Choosing the right end connection is essential for a safe, leak-free system.
Allows for fast tool changes. "Industrial" (M-Style) and "Automotive" (T-Style) are common, as are "Universal" twist-style couplers.
Fixed male or female threads (NPT is most common) for direct connection to compressors, reels, filters, and manifolds.
Used on large hoses (3/4" and up). A rugged, universal, quarter-turn connection common for jackhammers and high-flow applications.
Crimp-on ferrules provide a permanent, 360-degree seal. Heavy-duty clamps are a secure, field-repairable option.
Proper installation is the #1 factor in extending hose life. Most failures are caused by improper routing that creates excess stress, leading to braid fracture or core fatigue.
Problem: Twisting the hose during installation puts constant stress on the textile reinforcement, causing it to weaken and potentially burst under pressure.
Solution: Always ensure the hose bends in only one plane. Use two wrenches—one to hold the fitting steady, and one to tighten the connection.
Problem: Bending the hose tighter than its "Minimum Bend Radius" (especially near the fitting) creates a "kink" that restricts airflow and causes the hose to fail.
Solution: Always provide a smooth, gentle curve. Use 90-degree elbows or a longer hose to make the turn without stressing the hose itself.
Problem: A hose that is stretched tight has no room to absorb pressure changes or movement. This puts constant stress on the fittings and can cause a "blow-off".
Solution: Always install the hose with a small amount of "slack" (extra length) to allow for pressure surges, thermal expansion, and machine vibration.
Rubber is heavy-duty, more durable, and stays flexible in cold weather. It's the standard for industrial sites. PVC is lightweight and less expensive, making it good for light-duty or indoor use, but it can become stiff and hard to manage when cold.
Many pneumatic tools require an "in-line lubricator" that mists oil into the air stream to lubricate the tool's internal parts. A standard hose will be "eaten" or degraded by this oil, becoming soft and weak. An Oil-Resistant hose (with an NBR or Nitrile tube) is designed to handle this oil safely.
It's a rugged, metal, quick-connect fitting used on large air hoses (3/4" and up). Both ends are identical (universal) and connect with a simple quarter-twist to lock. They are standard on jackhammer hoses for a secure, high-flow connection.
For low-pressure (under 150 PSI) and non-critical applications, high-quality hose clamps can be used. However, for industrial use, high pressure, or safety-critical applications, a professionally crimped-on ferrule is the far safer and more reliable method for attaching fittings.
From a simple compressor whip to a heavy-duty, large-bore jackhammer line, the Glory team is ready to build your solution. Contact us with your size, pressure, and fitting requirements for an immediate quote.
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