Fuel hoses are an important part of your car’s fuel system and are responsible for transporting fuel from the tank to the engine. Fuel lines are usually made of rubber or plastic with metal fittings and couplings.
Auto fuel hose structure
The structure of an auto fuel hose typically consists of an inner layer and an outer layer, each made from specific materials to fulfill distinct functions.
The inner layer, often composed of synthetic rubber such as Nitrile rubber (NBR), is carefully selected for its compatibility with fuel and resistance to heat. This inner layer acts as a barrier, preventing fuel from leaking or permeating through the hose.
Surrounding the inner layer is the reinforcement layer, which provides structural support and enhances the hose’s resistance to pressure. Common reinforcement materials include fiber braids or winding layers, which add strength without compromising flexibility.
Finally, the outer layer, usually made of Chloroprene rubber (CR) or Chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), serves as a protective shield against external elements such as heat, ozone, and weathering. This outer layer ensures the durability and longevity of the hose, even in harsh automotive environments.
Types of fuel hoses
Rubber Hose: Rubber hose is one of the most commonly used types of fuel hose. It has the advantages of good flexibility, abrasion resistance, and weather resistance, but has lower pressure resistance and will deteriorate over time.
Plastic Hose: Plastic hose is lightweight, flexible and cheaper than rubber hose. It is also resistant to corrosion and abrasion, but is less pressure resistant, will deteriorate over time, and is not suitable for all types of fuel.
Metal Hose: Metal hose is more pressure resistant and durable than rubber or plastic hose. It is also resistant to heat and corrosion, but is heavy, not easy to handle, less flexible, not easy to install, and expensive.
Composite Hose: Composite hose is made of two or more materials, such as rubber and plastic or metal and rubber. It is designed to combine the advantages of different materials and overcome their disadvantages.
Advances in automotive fuel hose materials
The materials used in automotive fuel hoses are meticulously selected to withstand the harsh conditions of the engine compartment and the corrosive nature of fuel. Common materials include synthetic rubbers, such as Nitrile rubber, known for its excellent oil and fuel resistance, and Fluoro rubber, renowned for its outstanding chemical resistance and high temperature tolerance.
THV fuel hoses represent a recent innovation in eco-friendly hose technology on the international stage. THV, a copolymer material, exhibits exceptional resistance to permeation, aging, and fuel, with a lifespan nearly synchronized with that of the entire vehicle.
Production process of automotive fuel hose
Plasticizing – mixing – filtering – adding vulcanization system – extrusion – casing mandrel – vulcanization – stripping mandrel – drying – cutting – inspection – testing – production of auto fuel hose. -Drying – Cutting – Inspection – Packing and storage. Preparation of fuel hose materials are fluorine rubber, nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), chlorinated ether rubber, NBR / PVC and rubber and acrylate rubber.
Conclusion
Auto fuel hoses are a critical component of any vehicle’s fuel system and are responsible for safely and efficiently delivering fuel to the engine. By understanding their function, type, and maintenance requirements, you can ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle’s fuel delivery system to keep you safe on the road.