Thinking of getting a silicone hose for your project? Check this video out first!
Silicone hoses are essential in many industries, and when compared to other solutions such as rubber hoses and aluminium pipes, they offer a much higher level of performance. However one of the most crucial factors that determine the performance of silicone hoses is their diameter. The diameter of a silicone hose determines the flow and temperature of the fluid passing through it.
The diameter of a silicone hose directly impacts the flow rate of fluid passing through it. A larger diameter hose will allow for a higher flow rate compared to a smaller diameter hose. This is because the larger diameter hose provides a larger cross-sectional area for fluid to flow through, reducing the pressure drop.
Many of our clients in the automotive industry need to understand this to ensure the appropriate flow rate of coolant, oil, or air. For example, a turbocharger system requires a large flow rate of air to function efficiently, and therefore requires a large diameter hose. On the other hand, a smaller diameter hose may be more suitable for intercooler piping, where the flow rate is relatively low.
The diameter of a silicone hose also affects its temperature resistance. A larger diameter hose will have a lower temperature resistance compared to a smaller diameter hose. This is because a larger diameter hose has a larger surface area, which results in a higher rate of heat transfer. Choosing the right diameters is incredibly important for the specific temperature requirements, for example clients in the refrigeration industry will have different requirements than those in the automotive industry. After all, one g̶l̶o̶v̶e̶ diameter doesn’t fit all.
It is important to choose the right diameter silicone hose for each automotive application to ensure efficient and reliable performance. By understanding the relationship between diameter and flow rate and temperature resistance, automotive engineers can make informed decisions about the appropriate hose for each application.
Looking for silicone hoses for your project or application? Check out our full range of high-quality silicone hoses here.