Spiral Hydraulic Hoses vs. Braided Hoses: Which One Is Better

The hydraulic hose serves as a vital component in construction sites and agricultural operations and manufacturing facilities and automotive applications. Under high pressure hydraulic fluid transmission through these hoses ensures efficient operation of machinery. However, not all hydraulic hoses are the same. The two primary types—spiral hydraulic hoses and braided hoses—each have distinct characteristics, strengths, and ideal use cases. How to choose them for your applications depends on the factors below.

What are Spiral Hydraulic Hoses?

It is one of the kinds of hydraulic hoses with a spiral coating of steel wires. The middle layer of steel wire is helical, making the reinforcement stronger and more rigid. These hoses are made to withstand harsh conditions where industries do not need much flexibility. 

What are Braided Hydraulic Hoses?

The middle layer of braided hydraulic hoses has crisscrossed steel braids, which create a flexible and complex reinforcement layer. Countless steel wires are woven in crisscross form to make this braided structure. 

Key Differences Between Spiral and Braided Hoses

Industries know which type to choose because of their core differences. These hydraulic hoses are similar to the outside, but they perform differently. It is because of their reinforcement layers that work differently in different conditions. Find out the key differences below in the form of pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of Spiral Hydraulic Hoses

Spiral hydraulic hoses have a significant place in the industries. It is because of their strength and durability against high pressure from fluids and gases passed through them.

Rigid Structure with Less Flexibility

Their structure is rigid as compared to other types. The steel wire’s helical coating makes its reinforcement layer stiff and more durable. As a result, they can bear the extreme impact of fluids of different kinds. Another benefit of having a rigid structure is surviving the pressure of hydraulic activities. However, they are not suitable for applications where you need high flexibility.  

Durable and Strong against Rapid Spikes in Pressure

They are more durable than braided hoses. The durability level is high because they have a helical coating of steel wires, which works well in retractability. It can bear spikes in the pressure for a long time, which makes it suitable for harsh conditions. Extreme pressure can not wear the reinforcement layer soon because it can adjust itself in these conditions. The problem with other hoses is that they can lose their strength and flexibility because of frequent spikes in the pressure. However, spiral hoses perform better in this condition.

Suitable for High-Pressure Applications

They are the best hoses for high-pressure applications. Their spiral coating can bear the pressure by distributing it throughout the spiral lines. The outer layer of the hose does not risk explosion since the middle layer holds the pressure with it. Such strength makes it suitable for high-pressure liquid and gas flow. These hoses can prevent explosions by resisting the pressure for a long time, which means this type is the right choice for high-pressure applications.   

Low-Cost and Simple Structure 

Their structure is simple, which makes them low-cost hoses. Industries choose them because of their rigid structure and also because of the cost factor. Their simple structure does not require complex production methods that require more time, effort, and resources. All they have is a helical coating of steel wires in the middle layer for high strength. If you look at other types, their reinforcement layer has a complex structure, which adds to the cost of production. More material is used, and also more time is taken in production. Therefore, industries choose spiral hydraulic hoses that meet simplicity. 

Pros and Cons of Braided Hydraulic Hoses

Then, you have braided hydraulic hoses, also common in different industries. They also have pros and cons, differentiating them from other types. 

More Flexibility 

When industries need more flexibility, they choose braided hoses. Braided hoses have crisscross structures of steel wires, which can bend in any direction. This structure is suitable for applications where frequent adjustment is required. These braided types are the best option in some applications where hoses are moved continuously. They are capable of dealing with multi-directional bends. 

Less Durable than Spiral Type

If we look at the cons, they are less durable than the spiral type. The reason is their reinforcement structure; it doesn’t return to its original form upon continuous spikes in pressure. You might think that their flexibility makes them suitable for high pressure, but the opposite is true. Their braided structure loses its flexibility after some time. However, its durability is slightly less than that of the spiral type.

Suitable for Low and Medium-Pressure Applications

Braided hydraulic hoses are suitable for applications where industries do not need extremely high pressure. They can withstand low and medium pressure for some time. Also, if there are no spikes in pressure, the survival of braided hoses remains stable. Their only threat is spikes and consistent high pressure, which can destabilize the reinforcement layer. 

Not a Good Choice for Variable Pressure 

It is not a good choice if you are dealing with variable pressure. If you install braided hoses for medium pressure but the flow may get a variance, it will not survive in this case. The pressure must be consistently low or medium for braided hoses if you want them to survive for a good enough period. 

Common Applications

Both types of hoses have remarkable performance in industries. Some are suitable for medium-level applications and others for extreme conditions. Here are some applications you can install.

Braided hoses are suitable for pneumatic applications with medium pressure. Their flexibility allows users to control the hose for better movement, such as when spraying automobiles.

Spiral hoses are suitable for hydraulic applications where high pressure is required for intensive output.

Both aerospace and automobile applications need spiral and braided hoses.

Chemical industries need both types for high and medium-pressure use. 

The high and medium pressure for fluid transfer activities in food and beverage production requires both hoses.

FAQs

What is the lifespan of spiral vs. braided hoses?

Braided hoses can survive up to five years, while spiral hoses last for three to four years. The length of time depends on the pressure limit and other factors. 

Can braided hoses handle high-pressure systems?

They are more suitable for low and medium pressure. Since their braided structure can not withstand spikes in pressure, they are unsuitable. The spiral’s less flexibility makes it ideal for this.

Which hose type is better for extreme temperatures?

Spiral hydraulic hoses have better resistance to extreme temperatures. Their rigid structure makes them stronger and more durable.

Conclusion

Braided and spiral hoses have different structures in their middle (reinforcement layer). This structure decides their flexibility level and strength against high and medium pressure. You have to select either type that meets your application. Since it contains many risks, one can not compromise the production process by choosing the wrong kind.