The 7 Key Factors to Select the Right Industrial Hose

August 7, 2023

Selecting the right industrial hose is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of many industrial processes. There are several key factors to consider when choosing an industrial hose. Here are seven that cannot be compromised if you want to optimize their use.


1. Size and Length

Using the wrong size or length of the hose can lead to pressure drop, reduced flow rates, or excessive stress on the hose.


  • Inner Diameter (ID). Proper ID ensures efficient fluid transfer, prevents clogging, and enhances hose performance for specific applications. This promotes safety and functionality.
  • Outer Diameter (OD). OD measures its entire cross-sectional span, including the inner tube, reinforcement, and outer cover. The difference between the ID and OD determines how thick the hose is.
  • Length. The length determines how far the hose can extend, allowing it to reach specific areas or provide adequate coverage. Longer hoses offer greater flexibility and maneuverability, enabling easier handling and positioning in various applications. However, if a hose is too long, it can result in pressure drops, friction damage, tripping hazards, and other issues.


2. Temperature

Selecting a hose that maintains its integrity at the intended temperature is crucial for preventing accidents, leaks, or burst failures. This includes the ambient temperature of the environment. 


  • Fluid Temperature. Fluid temperature can affect the viscosity and flow properties of the material it is transporting. Hoses must be capable of accommodating the specific fluid characteristics at the intended temperature. 
  • Ambient Temperature. Exposure to extreme temperatures, UV, and other environmental factors affects material performance, flexibility, and pressure ratings.


Hoses that are not suitable for the ambient temperature may become more prone to failure, leaks, or ruptures, compromising safety and system performance.


3. Application Compatibility

Make sure the hose is in compliance with your industry’s local and federal regulations for the job. This includes environmental safety and industry standards.


4. Medium

Different hoses are designed to handle various substances, temperatures, pressures, and environments. Ensure that the hose is compatible with the material it will be transporting. This includes the mediums that will be used to clean industrial hoses to avoid chemical reactions and degradation.


5. Pressure Rating

Determine the maximum operating pressure required before making your purchase. While industrial hoses as all made to withstand considerable pressure, some will require higher pressure ratings than others. 


The pressure rating is influenced by the hose's material and construction, so selecting the right hose ensures compatibility with the conveyed fluid and environmental conditions. It also affects other factors like the hose’s flexibility, bend radius, costs, and maintenance.


6. Ends

The type of ends or fittings on an industrial hose is vital for proper installation and functionality. Selecting the right hose ends that match the hose's inner diameter and construction ensures a proper fit and optimal performance. They should also be made from materials compatible with the transported fluid to prevent chemical reactions and contamination.


Different systems require specific end connections based on the system requirements. These could include but are not limited to camlock fittings, flanges, quick-connects, or threaded fittings. 


7. Supplier Reputation and Support

Choose a reputable supplier that offers technical support and assistance in selecting the right hose for your specific application. Here are just a few reasons the supplier is just as important as the hose itself:

  • A reputable supplier is more likely to provide high-quality hoses that meet industry standards, reducing the risk of product defects or failures.
  • Reputable suppliers ensure their hoses meet relevant certifications and regulatory requirements, ensuring safe and compliant use.


Reliable suppliers offer technical assistance with hose selection, installation, and troubleshooting. They also provide excellent after-sales support like assisting with warranty claims, replacements, or maintenance.

Action Supply Offers Over 40-Years of Industrial Hose Expertise

We are committed to providing you with the highest quality customer care and have done so for over 40 years. Our inventory experts will work hard, earn your trust, and help you get the job done right. Contact us today to discuss the perfect industrial hoses for your system.

Choosing the Right Fittings for Complex Jobs

September 17, 2025
When uptime, safety, and fluid integrity matter, choosing the correct fitting is the difference between a reliable system and unexpected downtime. The right fitting ensures a leak-free seal, matches pressure and fluid compatibility, and simplifies serviceability in the field. Action Supply builds and manages custom hose assemblies daily and can help match fittings to your exact application. Material Selection: Match the Environment Material choice impacts corrosion resistance, strength, and cost. Stainless steel (316 where marine exposure or salt spray is present) offers excellent corrosion resistance and strength for structural or submerged fittings. Brass is economical and machinable, and performs well in many freshwater or general industrial applications, but can corrode faster in saline environments. Choose material based on fluid chemistry, temperature, and exposure to salt or corrosives. A Practical Checklist for Choosing Fittings Identify the media: hydraulic oil, freshwater, saltwater, chemical — materials and sealing change accordingly. Confirm pressure & temperature ratings: match fittings and hose to the system’s max working and burst pressures. Match thread type and size: NPT ≠ BSP — use thread gauges or manufacturer tables if unsure. Choose sealing method: metal-to-metal (37° JIC/AN), ORFS face-seal, or thread-seal (NPT + tape/compound). Account for serviceability: will techs need to disconnect often? Choose fittings that tolerate repeated assembly. Plan for corrosion: in marine or corrosive environments choose 316 stainless, bronze, or specially coated parts. Document and label: record part numbers, thread specs, and orientation to remove guesswork on replacements. Installation & Testing Tips Use the correct torque spec for the fitting type; overtightening can damage seals or distort threads. For ORFS, always replace O-rings during reassembly and inspect sealing surfaces for nicks. For pipe threads (NPT), use appropriate thread sealant or PTFE tape and apply properly (direction, number of wraps). Pressure-test new assemblies at the manufacturer-recommended proof pressure before returning equipment to service. When to Call the Experts at Action Supply If your job is complex (mixed standards on site, high-pressure hydraulic systems, or marine installations), bring the assembly to the shop or have Action Supply’s on-site team build and verify the assembly. We offer on-site hose assemblies, inventory management, and industry-grade fittings (including Eaton/Weatherhead hoses and couplings) so you get the right part and verified performance the first time. Call (281) 315-3841 or use our contact form to request on-site assembly or inventory support.

5 Warning Signs Your Hydraulic Hoses Need Replacing Before Peak Season Hits

August 11, 2025
Avoid costly downtime this peak season. Learn 5 key warning signs your hydraulic hoses need replacing to keep your equipment safe and productive.

Avoid Supply Delays: Why You Should Be Stocking Up Now for Hurricane Season

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Prepare your supply chain for hurricane season. Pre-stock hoses, fittings, and PPE with Action Supply to avoid delays and downtime. Be ready before storms hit.