Flat-Coilable Polyurethane Hose: A Lightweight and Durable Choice for Fluid Transfer
Read：26
With the increasing diversity of industrial fluid transfer applications, users are demanding greater portability, abrasion resistance, and environmental adaptability from hoses. The flat‑coilable polyurethane hose (TPU layflat hose) is gaining wide acceptance in agricultural irrigation, industrial drainage, emergency response, and shale gas fracturing water supply due to its unique structure and material properties.
What is a Flat‑Coilable Polyurethane Hose?
A flat‑coilable polyurethane hose is a lightweight layflat hose made of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) inner and outer layer, reinforced with a circular woven high‑tenacity polyester yarn. Unlike traditional PVC or rubber hoses, it lies completely flat when not under pressure, allowing easy coiling, stacking, and transport. When filled with fluid, it expands automatically to a circular cross‑section for efficient flow.
Key Advantages
High abrasion resistance – TPU significantly outperforms PVC and standard rubber. In Taber abrasion tests (H‑22 wheel, 0.5 kg load), the hose withstands ≥10,000 cycles without exposing the reinforcement layer, making it ideal for dragging over rough terrain.
Excellent low‑temperature performance – Remains flexible from -50°C to +80°C without hardening or cracking, suitable for high‑latitude regions such as Canada, Russia, and Nordic countries.
Lightweight and easy to deploy – Weighs about one‑third as much as a rubber hose of the same diameter. A single person can quickly lay out hundreds of meters, dramatically reducing field labor costs.
Chemical resistance – Resists most acids, alkalis, oils, hydrocarbons, fracturing fluids, fertilizers, and pesticides. It is also hydrolysis‑resistant and immune to fungal degradation.
UV and weather resistance – The TPU cover is UV‑stabilized and ozone‑resistant, ensuring long‑term outdoor performance without cracking.
Typical Applications
| Application Field | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Shale gas & oil fracturing water supply | Long‑distance transmission of fracturing water and flowback fluid, across rugged outdoor terrain |
| Agricultural irrigation | Main lines for sprinkler and drip irrigation; resistant to fertilizers and pesticides |
| Industrial drainage & mining | Mine dewatering, slurry transfer, temporary drainage lines |
| Firefighting & emergency response | Long‑distance water supply, flood control pumping, firefighting water replenishment |
| Construction & municipal works | Temporary site water supply, concrete curing, dust control |
Manufacturing Process
Flat‑coilable polyurethane hoses are produced using an extrusion‑through‑the‑weave (co‑extruded double‑sided) process. While the circular loom weaves the polyester reinforcement, molten TPU is simultaneously extruded onto both the inner and outer surfaces of the braided jacket. This single‑step operation creates a homogeneous wall structure without adhesives, eliminating delamination and ensuring long‑term reliability.
Industry Outlook
As global investment in energy, food, and water infrastructure grows, the demand for lightweight, durable hoses continues to expand. The flat‑coilable polyurethane hose is gradually replacing conventional hoses in many fluid transfer applications. Industry analysts project a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 6.5% for TPU layflat hoses over the next five years.
