Air Compressor Hose Size Chart

An air hose is the first thing that will hit your mind while thinking about air compressor accessories. This tubular extension allows you to reach tools or task stations where you can’t carry the entire compressor. That is why using a hose is a must for stationary air compressors. air compressor hose size chart will give you the proper idea for your project.

However, these air hoses are available in various lengths and diameters, which may confuse you to choose the right one. So, to help you out, I bought you an air compressor hose size chart and proper guidance to select the ideal hose for your project. So let’s begin-

What Is An Air Compressor Hose?

An air compressor hose is a long tube-like structure used to transfer gas, i.e., pressurized air, from the device to some other spot. This air compressor extension is used primarily in the industrial sector for maintaining continuous airflow for multi-functionality. This hose can be of different lengths ranging from 25 feet to 150 feet – purchase the one that suits your purpose. 

Air Compressor Hose Size Chart

An air hose is the first thing that will hit your mind while thinking about air compressor accessories. This tubular extension allows you to reach tools or task stations where you can’t carry the entire compressor. That is why using a hose is a must for stationary air compressors. 

However, these air hoses are available in various lengths and diameters, which may confuse you to choose the right one. So, to help you out, I bought you an air compressor hose size chart and proper guidance to select the ideal hose for your project. So let’s begin- 

Types of Air Compressor Hose

There are two types of air compressor hoses – standard air hose and recoil air hose. They have unique shapes, sizes, and works. One may be heavier, more flexible, and perform better than the other. Below is a short description of the two types of air compressor hoses- 

1. Standard Air Hose 

This type of hose can be spread across a big area, such as a patio or lawn, and features a heavy piece of tubing. You can loosely wrap or hang them on a wall but they are not suitable for bending. You can utilize standard air hoses for various tasks as they are lightweight and portable. 

Typically, a standard air hose is 50 feet long and is perfect for freezing climates. And considering the material of the hose, they are of two types: 

• TPE/PVC air hose &
• PCL Superflex air hose

2. Recoil Air Hose 

Recoil air compressor hoses are also known as coiled air compressor hoses. These air compressor hoses have a spring-like form that saves your storage space. Besides, you can use these air hoses for working in confined or compact spaces as they can compress to fit narrow spaces. The most important feature of this type of air hose is its heat resistance capability which makes them ideal for industrial settings. 

However, the recoil air compressor hose is available in two materials: nylon and polyurethane. These are discussed below:

• Polyurethane recoil Air hose: These hoses are ideal for their tighter bending. Additionally, they are resistant to damage from oil and other types of fuel; they can move air between -40 and +90 degrees Celsius. 

• Nylon recoil air hose: This specific air hose is renowned for its resistance to fuel, oil, and other issues. Besides, it provides excellent working pressure support and is chemical resistant. You can use them for applications like fuel lines, vacuum lines, vapor lines, agricultural machinery, and air paintings.  

Standard Vs. Recoil 

The main difference between these two air hoses is their physical structure. Besides, there are many other differences to mention; these are as follows- 

• Structure: Standard air compressor is tubular in structure; recoil air compressor is coil in form.
• Size & Weight: Standard air hose is heavier in weight in comparison to recoil hoses. In contrast, recoil hoses are smaller and require less material than regular hoses- this makes them lightweight. 
• Length: Standard hoses can be as long as 50 meters, meaning they take up much room. This is perfect for outside areas like a lawn or garden. On the other hand, the coil hose has a spring format so it doesn’t occupy much space. 
• Flexibility: The adaptability and ease of coil air hoses bring numerous benefits. You may change them by pulling, leaving, or changing them. On the other hand, these features are not present in a standard air hose.
• Safety Issues: Since standard hoses are so lengthy, there is a possibility that someone could trip over them and hurt themselves. But with a coiled air hose, that doesn’t happen.

How To Choose The Right Air Hose For Your Compressor?

Air hoses are available in numerous diameters and lengths. Besides, there are differences in composition – some are made of PVC, while others are composed of nylon. And all of these types are designed for specific applications. All these factors will eventually confuse you while choosing the ideal air hose for your air compressors. So, to save you from such a dilemma, here I bought to you a quick guideline on choosing the right air hose for your air compressor- 

1. Air Hose Length

Remember that any length is suitable when purchasing an air compressor hose. However, it would be best to specify the length you need.

The initial consideration to take into account when determining air compressor length is the distance between your compressor device and the location where you will be using your air tubing. 

Using the exact amount of tubing needed is also a good idea. Because a longer pipe may cause a pressure drop. Additionally, using a longer hose rather than an extension lead is preferable. It will prevent the motor from overheating and minimize the risks of fire breakouts. 

There are numerous air hose length options. However, the ones often used range from 30 to 100 meters. Among these, 50 meters is the one that is most suitable for practically all types of work.  

Another factor about air hose length is that the air pressure of the flowing air decreases as it passes through long tubes. That is, the longer the length of the air hose, the lower the pressure will be at the exit. 

2. Air Hose Size

The “inner tube,” “outer cover,” and the reinforcement are the different parts of an air compressor hose. The hose’s thickness and the reinforcement layer type determine the hose’s outer diameter. However, the inner diameter determines the pressure the hose can support.

The standard sizes for air compressor hoses are 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 13mm. The inside of the air compressor hose shouldn’t be too small to optimize airflow – this will affect the airflow.

3. Maximum Working Pressure

In most cases, the maximum pressure relevant to the air supply determines the working pressure for an air compressor hose. Essentially, this means that the maximum working pressure of the hose should be greater or equal to the airflow rate of the compressor. And if the air pressure exceeds the hose limit, it may burst or catch fire.

4. Material Of The Hose 

The performance of the air compressor depends on the flexibility, weight, and length of the air hose. This is what makes the hose material a crucial factor to consider. Below I’ve discussed some common materials used for air hoses-

PVC Air Hose

These hoses are perfect for use around the house and in the garage. They are very lightweight and have a medium level of strength. Additionally, PVC air hoses cost much less than other forms of air compressor hoses.

Polyurethane Air Hose 

These air compressor hoses are identical to PVC hoses in every way. Yet there are numerous features. They have self-coiling, so you may use them in any climate. Besides, polyurethane air hoses are super durable and have a long lifespan, but are unrepairable. 

Nylon Air Hose

This particular air compressor hose is intended solely for use at home due to its lightweight and portability. They are also less expensive than other air compressor hoses.  

Rubber Air Hose

PVC air compressor hose and rubber air compressor hose are comparable. However, these hoses are less durable. They are suitable for both home and industrial tasks. But the problem with this type of air hoses is that they are not affordable.

Hybrid Polymer Air Hose 

Compared to other air compressor hoses, the hybrid polymer hose has a bulky design. This particular style of air compressor hose is heavier and more expensive than any other air compressor hose.

Application

The size of the air hose varies with the purpose of its usage. The air hoses used for household activities are usually short in length and don’t need much wider diameter. But the ones used for industrial purposes require larger diameters to aid maximum airflow. Besides, the material of the air hose is also considered to fit different operations. For example- PVC air hoses are excellent for working in dark areas due to their bright yellow color that aids visibility. Again, if you use the air hose for high-pressure applications, then a nylon air hose is your best choice. However,  a basic Polyurethane (PU) air hose is ok for medium pressures.

What Diameter Is Good For An Air Compressor Hose?

Internal diameter, often known as (I.D), determines the air compressor hose’s size. You will get three internal hose diameter options while purchasing an air hose for your air compressor. These are- 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm.

The larger the hose, the more gas it can carry. So, 10mm is a better option. However, another thing to remember is that the air compressor size should increase with the CFM requirement of your air tool. 

Final Thoughts 

From the above discussion, now you know the different sizes available for air hoses. Yet, I am summing it up for you. The diameter and length of the air hose can greatly influence the air compressor’s performance. Larger the diameter of the air hose, the more the air-flowing capability. However, with the increase in length, the pressure of the flowing air reduces. So, if you are using a longer hose, ensure to operate the air compressor with higher PSI ratings.  

FAQs On Air Compressor Hose Size Chart 

Which is better – a ⅜ air hose or a ¼ air hose?

The answer is 3/8 hose. It allows for much greater airflow than a 1/4 hose. So, whether you need something for frequent usage or if you are working on anything that requires higher airflow, a 3/8 air hose is what you should go for. 

What is the most common air hose fitting?

The most popular air hose fitting is 1/4′′ NPT. It has an industrial fast connection threaded on that aids convenient usage. 

When should you change the air hose? 

If you purchase a high-quality air hose that handles many loads, there won’t be any issues. However, you should replace your air compressor hose if it has undergone any significant damage. Nevertheless, the maximum life of any air compressor hose is five to ten years.

Are air compressor hoses universal? 

The air compressor hoses are mostly used for tasks like gardening, mowing the lawn, or working in other well-known businesses since they are all the same type. But they are often not universal to suit all types of tasks; however, a variety of ranges are available to suit your purpose.