SS 304 wire braided flexible hose pipe

Product Description

SS 304 Flexible Pump Connector is a high-quality stainless-steel flexible connection designed primarily for installation between pumps and rigid piping systems. It is manufactured using AISI 304 stainless steel and typically consists of a corrugated flexible metal hose with an external stainless-steel wire braid.

The flexible construction helps isolate pump vibration, absorb minor lateral movement, compensate for thermal expansion, accommodate small misalignment, and reduce stress on connected piping. Stainless-steel braided construction also provides good mechanical strength and durability for demanding industrial service.

SS 304 flexible pump connectors are commonly used in water, HVAC, chemical, food & beverage, pharmaceutical, oil & gas, power, boiler, steam and general industrial piping systems. Depending on the application, they can be supplied with threaded, flanged or customized end connections.

Technical Specifications

Commercial manufacturers offer SS flexible hose assemblies in a broad range of sizes and pressure/temperature ratings; these values vary significantly with diameter, braid configuration, length, fittings and service conditions, so the final rating should always be confirmed from the manufacturer's technical data.

Advantages

1. Excellent Vibration Absorption

The flexible construction helps isolate vibration generated by pumps and other rotating equipment, reducing transmission into rigid piping.

2. Compensates for Thermal Expansion

The connector can accommodate certain lateral movements caused by thermal expansion and contraction of piping systems.

3. Reduces Pipe Stress

It helps reduce mechanical stress caused by minor misalignment and movement between the pump and connected pipework.

4. Good Corrosion Resistance

SS 304 provides good general corrosion resistance for many industrial and water-service applications.

5. High Mechanical Strength

The stainless-steel wire braid provides reinforcement and helps control hose expansion under pressure.

6. Long Service Life

Properly selected stainless-steel assemblies can provide durable performance in demanding industrial environments.

7. Easy Installation

Flexible connectors can simplify pump-to-pipe installation, particularly where space is restricted or minor alignment variation exists.

8. Multiple Connection Options

The assembly can be supplied with threaded, flanged and other end connections according to the piping arrangement.

9. Customizable Design

Length, diameter, braid construction and end fittings can be customized according to operating conditions and customer requirements.

10. Suitable for Various Industries

SS flexible pump connectors are used across HVAC, water treatment, chemical, petrochemical, power, food, pharmaceutical and general industrial applications.

Applications

• Pump suction and discharge connections
• Water transfer systems
• HVAC and chilled-water systems
• Boiler and hot-water piping
• Steam connections
• Chemical process plants
• Oil and gas applications
• Food and beverage equipment
• Pharmaceutical process systems
• Power generation plants
• Compressor and rotating equipment connections
• Industrial process piping
• OEM machinery and pump skids

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an SS 304 flexible pump connector?

It is a flexible stainless-steel hose assembly installed between a pump and piping system to help absorb vibration and accommodate certain movements and minor misalignment.

2. Why is a flexible connector used in a pump line?

It primarily helps reduce vibration transmission and piping stress and can accommodate certain lateral movement and thermal expansion.

3. What material is used in an SS 304 flexible pump connector?

The hose and/or braid can be manufactured from AISI 304 stainless steel, depending on the selected construction. Some assemblies use different grades for the hose and braid according to the application.

4. Is SS 304 suitable for chemical applications?

SS 304 is suitable for many general industrial services, but chemical compatibility must be checked for the specific chemical, concentration, temperature and pressure. For highly corrosive or chloride-rich services, SS 316/316L may be a more appropriate choice.

5. What sizes are available?

Industrial SS flexible hose assemblies are available in a wide range of sizes. Typical suppliers offer sizes from approximately 1/4 inch to 12 inches NB, with custom sizes available depending on the manufacturer.

6. What end connections can be supplied?

Common options include BSP/BSPT, NPT, threaded connectors, flanges, unions and customized connections.

7. Can the length be customized?

Yes. Flexible pump connectors can be manufactured to a specified overall or center-to-center length according to the installation requirements.

8. Is the SS 304 flexible connector suitable for high pressure?

Yes, when correctly designed and selected. Pressure capability depends on hose size, wall construction, braid layers, length, fittings and operating temperature. Some industrial SS flexible hose ranges are rated to substantially higher pressures than standard pump connectors.

9. Does a flexible pump connector absorb axial movement?

Not necessarily. A conventional flexible hose/pump connector is generally selected for vibration and certain lateral movements; axial movement capability depends on the specific design. Some manufacturers specifically state that their pump connectors are not intended to absorb axial movement.

10. What standard is applicable to SS flexible hoses?

EN ISO 10380 is a commonly referenced standard for corrugated metal hose assemblies. Manufacturers may also apply additional testing and customer-specific standards depending on the service.

11. How should I select the correct SS 304 flexible pump connector?

Provide the supplier with:

• Pump connection size
• Required overall length
• Fluid/media
• Operating pressure
• Operating temperature
• Flow requirements
• End-connection type
• Expected movement/vibration
• Installation orientation
• Required material grade

The connector should then be selected based on the manufacturer's pressure, temperature, bend-radius and movement limitations.

12. What is the difference between SS 304 and SS 316 flexible connectors?

SS 304 is a widely used general-purpose stainless-steel grade. SS 316/316L generally provides better corrosion resistance for more aggressive chemical, marine or chloride-containing environments. The appropriate grade should be selected based on the actual process media and operating conditions.