Layflat hose is ideal for agricultural and construction use because it’s flexible and it rolls flat. It offers functionality, easy setup and easy storage.
Layflat Hose Applications
Lay flat hose works great for drip irrigation applications and water discharge applications that are temporary. It’s not to be buried underground.
Hose that lays flat can be repaired easily in the field or on site, if necessary. You can easily slide a barbed hose fitting into the cut end of flat lay hose and secure it with a hose clamp. Simply cut the hose, slide the barbed end into the hose, and tighten the hose clamp.
Bonus: PaulB Parts sells flat lay hose by the foot, so you can order exactly what you need.
Friction Loss
To find the right layflat hose, consider its purpose and any friction loss that might occur.
Flat Lay Hose Colors
PaulB Parts sells red lay flat hose and blue flat lay hose.
The red hose is a PVC heavy-duty water discharge hose. The blue hose is a PVC all-purpose, drip irrigation hose.
Colors typically indicate the pressure rating of the hose. Blue=80 PSI max WP rating, red=150 PSI max WP rating.
But how to care for your Layflat hoses and couplings?
Inspect Your Hoses and Couplings
When it comes to protecting your layflat hoses, the best thing you can do is provide daily inspections. In fact, it’s best to inspect your hoses twice a day: once at the start of the workday and once at closing. This is especially important where the couplings are concerned. If your couplings have been damaged, your hoses can’t sustain pressure. Unfortunately, if your couplings fail, you run the risk for accidents and injuries, especially where high-pressure hoses are concerned. For maximum safety, inspect your hoses and couplings at least twice a day. If you see signs of damage, replace the hoses or couplings right away.
Let Hoses Dry Thoroughly
If you want to avoid premature deterioration, let the hoses dry thoroughly. You might not think that hoses would need to dry out. But, that’s not the case. Because the hoses do lie flat, they need to be completely dry before they’re rolled up and put away. If any moisture is left behind, the hoses will rot. Unfortunately, hose rot can cause serious problems, especially for the crew members around the hose when it ruptures. Not only that, but residual moisture can cause the metal couplings to rust and corrode. If that happens, the couplings can fail during use. Prevent hose rot and coupling corrosion. Make sure the hoses are completely dry before you roll them up.
Practice Safe Storage Methods
If you’re going to store your layflat hoses, make sure you use safe storage methods. Storage mistakes can destroy your hoses. The biggest mistake you can make is storing your hoses in the sun. Sun exposure can ruin your layflat hoses. To avoid sun damage, store your hoses in a cold, dry location. It’s also important that you practice proper pest control measures, as well. Pests, such as mice, rats, and squirrels can do serious damage to your layflat hoses and couplings, especially during nesting.