Hoses are ubiquitous in modern industry. In heavy industry, rubber hoses are predominantly used due to their ability to convey water, oil, chemicals, and various other mediums. However, rubber hoses fall short in certain specialized applications. Take the marine field, for example. The corrosive nature of seawater and salt mist poses a significant challenge. Over time, these elements will corrode rubber hoses, which led to the development of a new material: the composite hose.
Despite its advantages, many people have reported that the surface of composite pipes can develop cracks. In reality, this issue can be attributed to multiple factors. Improper operation during the production process is a common cause, as is the impact of the external environment. Both of these factors can negatively affect the pipe’s usability and lifespan.
Specific Reasons for Cracks in Flexible Composite Hoses
Defects in the Rolling Process
In the finished product’s rolling stage, serious defects in the composite pipe can occur. These are often caused by severe scratches or excessive wear of the roller groove.
Impurities in Molten Iron
During the rolling process, if impurities are present in the molten iron, problems arise. High oxygen content in the molten iron leads to the formation of oxides. Failure to remove these oxides during production will result in cracks.
Gas – Related Issues
When the molten iron contains a large amount of gas, it is released as the iron solidifies, forming bubbles. Bubbles close to the outer layer of the slab become subcutaneous bubbles, which typically arrange vertically in a honeycomb pattern beneath the surface. While most bubbles generated during billet rolling can be welded shut, some subcutaneous bubbles are too close to the surface. When the steel billet is heated, the surface burns, and these bubbles oxidize, preventing proper welding and closure. As a result, cracks form on the composite chemical hose.