SAE 100R1 and SAE 100R2 hoses are versatile for use in construction, agricultural, transportation, forestry, mining, and industrial equipment. However, compact hoses such SAE 100R16 and SAE 100R17 offer greater flexibility in tight spaces on mobile equipment and are more cost effective than the traditional SAE 100R1 and SAE 100R2 hoses.  SAE 100R4 is commonly used for low-pressure hydraulic return or suction lines. High-pressure needs in heavy equipment use SAE 100R12 and SAE 100R13, with SAE 100R15 for ultra-high pressures.

To aid procurement and engineering professionals, the industry has seen a trend away from specific SAE designations on hose, leading to the development of the Isobaric hose line. Isobaric hose is a constant pressure rated hose regardless of the hose diameter. These hoses have close ties to SAE rated hoses and are typically noted to have performance to the ISO 18752 standard.

Hose life is completely dependent on application and environmental factors. According to SAE J1273, the typical shelf life for a rubber hydraulic hose stored out of sunlight and in a controlled environment is approximately 6 years. In ideal storage conditions, such as a climate-controlled environment, this shelf life may be extended. Per SAE, thermoplastic hydraulic hose has an unlimited shelf life.

Hydraulic hoses should be inspected regularly and replaced as soon as signs of wear, cracks, or damage appear. In harsh environments, more frequent checks may be necessary.

This is not recommended. The safest and most reliable approach is to replace the damaged hose as soon as possible. Keeping spare hoses on hand and performing regular maintenance checks can help prevent unexpected failures and safety risks.

Signs your hydraulic hose needs replacement include visible damage (cracks, bulging, kinks), leaks, softness or brittleness, and unusual noise. Exposure to UV or extreme temperatures can also cause much faster hose degradation. Hoses aging past 6 years old or under continual high pressure may need replacement. Regular inspections help catch issues early.

· 25 feet

· 50 feet

· 100 feet

These options provide flexibility in choosing the right hose length based on the specific requirements of your pressure washing tasks, whether you need a shorter hose for small, residential jobs or a longer hose for commercial or extensive property cleaning.

Although this is a very subjective topic depending on the application, in many cases the most flexible hydraulic hoses are SAE 100R7 and SAE 100R18. Both are thermoplastic hoses, offering excellent flexibility and resistance to abrasion and chemicals, as well as superior UV and ozone protection when compared to rubber hose equivalents. SAE 100R7 and SAE 100R18 are commonly used in low to medium-pressure applications and are ideal for tight bends and high maneuverability in construction, agriculture, transportation and industrial machinery.

The strongest hydraulic hoses are those with spiral wire reinforcement, like SAE 100R12, SAE 100R13, SAE 100R15 capable of handling pressures up to 6,000 psi. These hoses are used in heavy-duty applications for maximum strength and durability. As the industry moves to the Isobaric line, these hoses are commonly referred to as 4000psi, 5000psi, or 6000psi hoses.