How To Choose Pressure Hoses for an Aircraft

With various systems operating simultaneously to make flight possible, aircraft comprise many important part types, all of which must meet or exceed high standards. One popular part type across a myriad of aircraft systems is the pressure hose, that of which can be found in a range of aircraft, from light aircraft to twin-aisle, wide-body aircraft. Unlike typical hose designs, an aircraft pressure hose is designed specifically for pressurized systems. This means that they carry pressurized fluids like hydraulic fluids, rather than typical fluids. To learn more about how to choose the correct pressure hose for your applications, read on.

Pressure hoses are used in a number of systems, but within aircraft, they are used for motor oil. When the motor is off, pressure hoses function the same as non-pressure hoses by carrying oil that is not pressurized; however, once the motor is on and running, the oil will heat up and become pressurized. As such, these systems require a reliable, heavy-duty pressure hose. Pressure hoses can be procured by their ability to withstand pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI), so it is important to know the measured pressure within your system. Lower pressure hoses may withstand around 1000 PSI of pressure, while other designs can withstand up to 3,000 PSI of pressure.

Another common application for pressure hoses are within coolant systems. “Coolant” is a water-based solution used in some motors and other systems to lower the temperatures of certain components by absorbing heat. In a motor’s cooling system, the coolant absorbs heat from the motor and carries it to the radiator. Given the change in the coolant’s temperature, it also experiences a change in pressure, requiring a pressure hose for traveling through the system.

When obtaining a pressure hose for the aforementioned areas or other aircraft systems, the pressure, or PSI, rating will indicate how much pressure your hose can safely withstand. For this reason, it is vital to procure the correct size of pressure hose. That being said, the diameter of the inner tube must match that of the outlet you intend to use with a given pressure hose. Next, the length of your hose will determine how far it can carry your pressurized fluid. For example, the hose must be long enough to stretch from one component to the next, such as the motor to the radiator. It is also essential to consider the material of your pressure hose. Steel wire braids are a popular material as it is both strong and flexible. Other popular materials include cloth braid rubber, stainless steel teflon, and more. Lastly, you must ensure your hose meets aviation standards. FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) Certification is the standard for aircraft hose assemblies, so be sure to understand your hose’s qualifications prior to purchase.

For high-caliber aviation parts from an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited distributor, rely on NSN 3Sixty. With around-the-clock professionals working to tailor custom quotes within 15 minutes, begin the procurement process with us today by submitting an Instant RFQ form. Using relevant details like your target prices, shipping deadlines, and desired quantities, we can better tailor quotes for your comparisons, so be sure to inform us of all necessary restraints and more. We also offer expedited shipping for international and domestic orders alike, so please let us know of any AOG situations or other time constraints. To learn more, contact us at any time via phone or email; we are available to help 24/7x365