When choosing a professional air hose for your tools, you may wonder which is better: rubber air hose or hybrid? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of air hoses and help you decide which one is the best.
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Rubber Hose vs Hybrid Hose: Which Is Supreme in Durability, Flexibility, Cost, and More?
In this section, we’ll compare rubber and hybrid air hoses in terms of their durability, flexibility, temperature range, cost, kink resistance, tangle resistance, UV and weather resistance, diameter, and pressure rating.
By the end, you’ll better understand which type of air hose is right for your specific needs.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor in determining which type of air hose to use.
Rubber air hoses are the go-to choice for heavy-duty applications because of their exceptional durability and resistance to abrasions, punctures, and oil.
In contrast, PVC or hybrid air hose may be eligible for lighter work, but it is prone to wear and tear and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Also, cold weather and freezing temperatures are slower to destroy a rubber air hose than a PVC air hose.
Rubbermaid hoses can last up to 10 years, while PVC hoses typically last between 2 and 5 years.
Flexibility
Hybrid hoses are generally more flexible than rubber hoses because of their composition of different materials.
Rubbermaid air hose is more resistant to kinks and maintains its shape over time.
Temperature range
Rubber hoses have a higher ability to withstand high temperatures. According to a study by Parker Hannifin, rubbermaid hoses can withstand temperatures of up to 212°F (100°C), while PVC hoses can only withstand temperatures of up to 140°F (60°C).
This makes rubber hoses more suitable for high-temperature applications such as welding and hot air blower operations.
Cost of air hoses
Comparing the cost of two options: rubber and hybrid air hoses, can help determine which one is more cost-effective.
While a rubbermaid hose tends to have a higher upfront cost, this hose is generally more durable and has a longer lifespan than a hybrid air hose.
In contrast, hybrids are less pricey upfront but may need to be replaced more frequently due to wear and tear.
For instance, a 50-foot rubber air hose can cost around $30 to $40, while a 50-foot polyurethane air hose can be priced from $20 to $30.
Kink and tangle resistance
Rubber hoses resist kinking, a significant issue in specific applications.
Hybrid maintains its shape better over time and is less likely to develop tangles, making them easier to handle and store. On the other hand, hybrid hoses are more prone to kinking and tangling due to their composition of different materials.
UV and weather resistance
Rubbermaid hoses are more commonly resistant to UV rays and weather related damage than PVC air hoses.
Rubbermaid hose is less likely to crack or become brittle, even when exposed to extreme temperatures or sunlight.
Polyurethane hoses may be more prone to UV rays and weather damage, which can shorten their lifespan and require more frequent replacement.
Hose tube diameter
The hose tube diameter affects the airflow capacity, determining how air can be delivered to your tools or equipment.
Also, it affects the air pressure decrease experienced over the length of the air hose.
A larger diameter air hose can experience less pressure decrease than a smaller diameter air hose over the same distance.
Rubbermaid hoses generally come in larger diameters than hybrid hoses, allowing a higher volume of air or fluid to flow through the air hose.
For example, a 1-inch rubbermaid air hose can deliver water at a rate of up to 600 gallons per minute, while a 1-inch polyurethane hose may only deliver water at 300-400 gallons per minute.
Pressure
This refers to the highest pressure the air hose can resist before it bursts or fails. If the pressure coefficient of the air hose is less than the tension your air compressor can generate, the tube will not be able to handle the stress and may burst or fail, which can be dangerous.
The flow rate is the amount of air that can pass through the air hose at a given time, and it’s measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or sometimes square inch per minute.
You will need a greater diameter if you use a tool requiring a high CFM rating.
Rubbermaid hoses are generally rated for higher pressures than PVC hoses, which makes them more suitable for applications that require the delivery of air or fluids at high pressure. PVC air hoses may have lower pressure ratings than standard hoses, limiting their use in specific applications.
Environmentally friendly: Which type is more friendly, hybrid or rubber hoses?
Hose production has an impact on the environment. For someone, this factor can be essential.
Rubber air hoses are made from natural or synthetic rubber. Rubber is a non-renewable resource that requires energy to extract and process.
A PVC air hose comprises several materials, including PVC and plastic. They are easy to recycle, which is good for the environment.
The manufacturing process for just one rubber air hose uses many chemicals and involves high energy consumption in the case of machines. However, the rubber air hose is recyclable and can be reused at the end of its life.
This ability helps reduce their environmental impact.
PVC air hoses are more environmentally friendly than rubber air hoses. The high percentage of the stuff that can be recycled in the future allows for reusing and drastically reduces waste during manufacturing.
Why Polyurethane Air Hose is the excellent choice for Air Compressor Systems
Polyurethane air hose is ideal for air compressor systems. When it comes to picking the right air compressor hose, polyurethane air hoses have much more advantages, making them the best option for being it.
Polyurethane air hoses are durable, which is important for air compressor hose. Unlike PVC air hoses, which can easily crack or become brittle over time, polyurethane air hoses are highly resistant. This means that they are less likely to fail in industrial settings.
In addition, the polyurethane air hose is also extremely flexible. It remains pliable even in cold temperatures. PVC air hoses become stiff and inflexible in cold weather, making them more difficult to work with.
Polyurethane air hoses have a higher burst pressure and can handle more heightened pressure levels without bursting or leaking.
A polyurethane air hose is compatible with most systems and is easily connected to brass fittings.
Finally, a polyurethane air hose has a common size, diameter, and length, making this type of hose easier to find and purchase than other air compressor hose. And if you’re wondering how much pressure they can handle, they are rated to handle typical air compressor system pressures.
In summary, if you are looking for the best air hose for your system, a polyurethane air hose with a PVC compound inner tube is the better air hose part to choose. Its durability, flexibility, and strength make it the best air hose option. And with the right air hose, you can ensure your air compressor system’s safe and efficient operation.
Which is the prettiest?
Gardeners are looking for hoses that are not only functional, but also colorful and attractive.
There are many dissimilarities between rubber and hybrid hoses.
Rubber air hoses are the proper choice if you need an air hose with a classic and industrial look to enhance your professionalism. Most air hoses of this kind are available in concrete colors such as yellow, green, and black.
PVC air hose is better if the main focus is on bright colors. They are ideal for garden hoses because they look modern and can be a good fit if you prefer a contemporary look.
FAQ
Which is better, hybrid or rubber air hose?
Rubbermaid hoses are kink resistant, making them ideal for use in applications where the air hose needs to be moved frequently. They have a high maximum pressure volume and are suitable for all tasks due to temperature compatibility, making them ideal for use in many different environments. This ability makes them a more valued option.
What is the difference between poly and rubber air hose?
A polyurethane air hose is more lightweight and flexible than a rubber air hose, making it more comfortable to handle and maneuver. Polyurethane hoses also have a high maximum pressure rating and are compatible with a wide range of temperatures, but may not be as durable as rubber hose.
Can you use a rubber air hose for the air compressor?
Absolutely, rubber hoses can operate with air compressors. It’s essential to choose an air hose with a maximum pressure coefficient appropriate for your compressor and to ensure that the air hose is compatible with your air device. Rubbermaid hoses also leak less than other types of hoses.
What is a poly hybrid air hose?
A poly hybrid or polyurethane air hose is a classified air hose with lighter weightand flexible properties.They are made from a blend of thermoplastic materials and rubber.
Conclusion
Now it’s time for a review. How not to go wrong when making this difficult decision?
The choice: rubber or polyurethane air hose? There are some specific requirements
Rubber air hoses are enduring and resistant to abrasion and oil, ideal for serious-duty work. Hybrid air hoses are more flexible and suitable for lighter-duty applications.
The hose price should be based on the life cycle
Rubbermaid hoses may have a higher initial price, but are more cost-effective in the long run because of their longer life. Hybrid air hoses are less expensive but require more frequent replacement.
Diameter and pressure rating are essential
Rubbermaid hoses are available in larger diameters and are rated for higher pressures, and this capability makes them the proper air hose for high pressure. Hybrid hoses have lower pressure resistance and smaller diameters, limiting their use in specific applications.
Read More: The Best Air Compressor Hoses of 2023
