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When it comes to hoses, both polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are popular materials. Both materials are thermoplastics, which means they become pliable when they reach a certain temperature and harden again when they cool. They can also be made in tinted or solid colors.

Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between PVC hose and polyurethane hose that make them suitable for different tasks.

What is a PVC hose?

PVC hoses can be used in the food, dairy, irrigation and medical industries. However, its high resistance to chemicals and weathering means it can have many other applications.

Our PVC formulations are kink resistant and flexible, making them suitable for flat hoses. This aids in transport and storage for added convenience. Generally, PVC is more economical than its counterpart.

Made of PVC synthetic material and high-strength fiber filament, it is bright and bright in color, light in weight, soft and elastic in four seasons, easy to move, has good weather resistance, can be bent arbitrarily, and can be used on uneven rock and soil surfaces.

It can roll freely in the environment of 0℃~65℃. It is an ideal supporting product for garden watering, community factories and mines and household cleaning, vehicle washing and daily cleaning.

It is available in light, medium or heavy duty and can also be reinforced. Garden hose has the advantages of high compressive strength, low laying requirements, simple installation and connection, light and durable structure, low comprehensive cost, etc., and has won unanimous praise from new and old customers. This makes PVC one of the most popular hose and pipe materials.

Still, PVC hose does have its limitations. It does not perform well with certain chemicals, liquids and oils, which can cause it to crack and harden over time.

We offer a variety of oil resistant PVC hoses to meet these needs, specially designed to handle the intake and discharge of oil and gas with low aromatic content. For example, they are suitable for kerosene, paraffin, tall oil, etc.

What is a Polyurethane hose (PU)?

Polyurethane hose provides a solution to the difficult problems of PVC, with excellent resistance to most petroleum-based chemicals. This makes it ideal for most fuel lines, although testing may be required in some cases. Polyurethane hose can also handle lower temperatures.

Polyurethane is also popular when hose or pipe is placed under high pressure, as this thermoplastic tends to resist its effects better than PVC. It also has a firm footing in weather and chemical resistance, meaning it can be used in many of the same industries.

One big difference between the two materials is that while PVC is odorless, polyurethane may transfer odor/taste to the product flowing through it. It is more commonly used in pipelines, with uses ranging from mining to nuclear power.

What other aspects should be considered when choosing a hose?

Choosing the right material for your hose is critical, but it’s not the only aspect you need to consider. It’s also important to consider the length you need, for example. You also have to think about where to put it; will it go inside or outside and what conditions will it have to deal with?

Still not sure?
Orientflex has many years of experience in supplying hose and tubing, and our team of experts will be happy to provide you with tailored advice. We offer a range of high-quality products to meet the needs of every application and industry.