Avoiding Mistakes With Teflon Hose

Hoses made with a core of Teflon® (PTFE) deliver out-standing performance under severe conditions. That’s why they are found in places like the space shuttle, aircraft landing gear and braking systems, and the self-contained breathing apparatus firefighters depend on to keep them safe.

Strong points

Teflon hoses may be a good choice for applications where the following characteristics are required or specified:

• Heat and cold resistance

• Corrosion resistance

• Non-toxicity

• Extremely low permeability

• Light weight

• Flex/fatigue resistance

• Ease of cleaning/sanitizing

• UV/ozone resistance

Depending upon the application, Teflon hose is available with type 304 or 316 Stainless, Monel, or bronze braiding. The hose can also be covered with silicone, thermoplastics, or textiles, where needed.

Just as there are differences between materials used in hoses, so are there differences between hoses using the same base material, like Teflon. Here are some of the basic characteristics to consider in choosing a hose for a specific application.