Today’s detailed look at the full range of automotive rubber hoses from Orientflex provides a comprehensive insight into automotive rubber hoses. In this article, we will introduce the most popular automotive rubber hoses offered by Orientflex in addition to discussing the factors that affect their longevity and provide expert advice at the end of this article.
7 Common Types of Automotive Rubber Hoses
Fuel Hose
An automotive fuel hose is a type of pipe that is used to connect between the fuel tank and the engine, and its main function is to carry automotive fuel. It is usually made of rubber or similar materials to ensure that it is flexible and durable enough to cope with engine vibrations and other external factors.
Coolant Hose
Coolant hoses are usually made of high-temperature and corrosion-resistant rubber materials with good flexibility and durability. They connect the engine to the radiator, water pump, and other key components of the cooling system to lower the engine temperature and keep it running in the normal range by delivering coolant.
Brake hoses
Brake hoses are also known as brake lines. As one of the important components of the brake system, the brake hose takes on the key task of delivering brake fluid. It connects the brake master cylinder and each brake cylinder to ensure that the brake fluid can flow smoothly, thus ensuring the normal operation of the brake system and the driving safety of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspection will prevent brake fluid leakage and ensure optimal braking performance.
Power steering hoses
Power steering hoses are usually made of pressure-resistant, abrasion-resistant rubber or synthetic rubber with excellent flexibility and durability. Their internal structure is designed to ensure a smooth flow of hydraulic power fluid to the steering mechanism, thus reducing the driver’s force when steering and improving driving comfort and maneuverability.
Intake Hose
The air intake hose is a flexible pipe that connects the engine air intake to the air filter. Its main function is to bring outside air inside the engine to support fuel combustion and engine operation.
Regular inspection, care and maintenance of the air intake hose will ensure that the engine receives enough fresh air to keep it running at its optimum operating condition.
Vacuum Hose
Automotive rubber vacuum hose is an important pipe that connects the car engine with various sensors, actuators and other components. Its main function is to transmit vacuum signals and regulate the air flow in the engine, thus ensuring the normal operation and performance of the engine.
Automotive rubber vacuum hose regulates emissions and improves fuel efficiency. It also ensures proper engine performance. Regular inspection and maintenance of vacuum hoses is essential to prevent leaks. As a result, you can ensure smooth operation of the systems involved.
Customized automotive hoses
Orientflex offers customized automotive hoses that can be tailored to specific car models or aftermarket modifications. These hoses offer precise fittings and lengths to meet unique automotive requirements. Customized hoses ensure a perfect fit, reducing the risk of leaks and improving overall system efficiency. For specialized automotive applications, choosing a custom hose may be helpful.
Automotive Hose Manufacturing and Materials
The manufacturing process involves the use of various rubber materials and production techniques. Different materials and methods ensure durability, flexibility and resistance to extreme conditions.
Material Selection
Automotive rubber hoses can be made from both natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber offers excellent flexibility and elasticity. On the other hand, synthetic rubber offers enhanced heat resistance and durability. In such cases, manufacturers usually blend the two to achieve the desired properties. They also add reinforcing materials to increase the strength of automotive rubber hoses. Some of the reinforcing materials include fabric, wire, or both.
Manufacturing of Automotive Hoses
Manufacturing automotive hoses is a complex and sophisticated process that involves material selection, molding, vulcanization, and quality control. First, the manufacturer selects materials suitable for automotive hoses, usually high-quality rubber or synthetic rubber with good flexibility and durability. Then, the material is molded into the desired shape and size through processes such as extrusion, molding or injection molding. Next, vulcanization is carried out to improve the strength and durability of the hose. Finally, quality inspection and packaging are performed to ensure that each hose meets standards and can be used safely and reliably.
Below are Orientflex’s best selling automotive rubber hoses
Power steering hose SAE J188 : This model has an inner diameter of 9.8mm. an outer diameter of 19.8mm. and can withstand a working pressure of 103 bar.
Rubber air conditioning hose: The air conditioning hose is available in five models, with internal diameters ranging from 8 mm to 19 mm and external diameters ranging from 15 mm to 28 mm.
Rubber heater hoses SAE J20: Heater hoses are available in five different models. Their inner diameters range from 10 mm to 25 mm. In addition, their outside diameters range from 17 mm to 34 mm.
Rubber brake hoses SAE J1402: Brake hoses are available in four different versions. The inner diameters range from 6 mm to 13 mm. The outer diameters range from 14 to 22 mm. They can withstand pressures up to 1.1 Mpa.
Rubber fuel hoses SAE 30 R6: Automotive fuel hoses are available in eight different versions. Their inner diameters range from 5 to 25 millimeters. Additionally, their outer diameters range from 11 to 35 millimeters.
Factors affecting the life of automotive hoses
The lifespan of automotive hoses depends on several key factors. These factors affect the durability and performance of the hose. Understanding these factors is critical to maintaining the integrity of the hose. It also ensures optimal vehicle operation.
- Material quality
Material quality significantly impacts the lifespan of automotive hoses. High-quality rubber or synthetic materials offer prolonged durability, exhibiting resistance to abrasion, heat, and corrosion, thus minimizing the risk of hose deterioration and damage. - Temperature and pressure
Temperature and pressure management play crucial roles in hose longevity. Elevated temperatures induce material aging, rendering the hose rigid and brittle, while excessive pressure may cause bursting or leakage. Hence, maintaining optimal temperature and pressure levels is pivotal for extending hose life. - Vibration and tension
Vibration and stretching during automobile driving will also cause damage to the hose. Frequent vibration will cause hose connections to loosen or wear, while stretching may cause hose breakage or cracks. Therefore, avoid prolonged hard acceleration and hard braking to minimize the effects of vehicle vibration and stretching on the hose. - Chemical substances
Chemicals present in vehicle engines and hydraulic systems may chemically react with hose materials, causing hardening, brittleness, or corrosion, thereby shortening hose life. Proper material selection and avoidance of contact with harmful chemicals are imperative to safeguard hose integrity. - Improper installation and maintenance
Improper installation and maintenance of the hose can also affect its life. Incorrect installation may lead to excessive bending or squeezing of the hose, resulting in damage; while the lack of regular inspection and maintenance may leave the hose problems undetected for a long time, accelerating its aging and damage.
How to properly maintain automotive rubber hoses: expert advice
- Regular Inspection
Regularly check the appearance of automotive rubber hoses to make sure there are no cracks, abrasions or deformations. Pay special attention to the hose connections and bends, which are more prone to problems. - Gentle Cleaning
Use mild detergent and soft cloth to clean the rubber hose, avoid using strong acid, alkali or solvent containing detergent, which may damage the rubber surface. - Avoid high temperature and direct sunlight
Try to avoid exposing the rubber hose of your car to high temperature or direct sunlight for a long time, which will accelerate the aging of rubber and make it hard and fragile. - Use Rubber Protector
Regularly applying rubber protector to the surface of rubber hose can increase its softness and durability, and prolong its service life. - Handle gently
When removing or installing a rubber hose, be gentle and avoid excessive stretching or bending that could damage the hose. - Periodic replacement
Replace aged or damaged rubber hoses regularly according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations, usually at certain mileage intervals or over several years to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. - Take care of storage
If it is necessary to store the spare rubber hose, it should be placed in a dry and ventilated place, avoiding moisture or direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Orientflex is one of the most popular automotive rubber hose manufacturers in China. Its automotive rubber hoses are made of high quality natural and synthetic rubber compounds and reinforced with premium materials. You may find braided fabrics or metal wires to ensure enhanced durability and performance. We welcome your inquiries and orders.