Omni Blog

Chemical Hose Products

Written by Omni Services | Aug 7, 2025 2:23:59 PM

 

 

Toughest Products for Your Harshest Chemicals

 

 

When it comes to transferring aggressive chemicals, there’s no margin for error. Chemical compatibility is critical, not just to ensure performance, but to protect your people, your equipment, and your bottom line. Whether you’re handling acids, solvents, caustics, or custom chemical blends, choosing the right hose and fittings can make or break your process. In this post, we’re spotlighting the workhorses of chemical transfer: PTFE, UHMW, XLPE, metal, and composite hoses- plus the stainless-steel components and PTFE-lined process equipment that keep everything flowing safely and efficiently.

 

 

Chemical Compatibility in Hoses and Process Components

In chemical processing and industrial maintenance, one weak link in your system can cost more than downtime- it can lead to hazardous leaks, safety violations, and major equipment damage. That’s why chemical compatibility isn’t just a suggestion; it’s non-negotiable. Whether you’re moving sulfuric acid, sodium hypochlorite, or custom chemical blends, your hose assembly needs to be built from materials that can take the heat- figuratively and literally.

 

Why Chemical Compatibility is Critical in MRO 

MRO teams operate under pressure—keeping systems online while minimizing risks. But chemicals don’t play nice. When incompatible hose materials encounter reactive fluids, you get: 

  • Swelling and softening of the hose liner
  • Permeation, leading to off-gassing and contamination
  • Delamination or cracking, especially under high temperature or vacuum
  • Static buildup, a real hazard with volatile substances

 The right material choice eliminates these threats before they ever appear, and that’s where the chemical hose lineup comes in. 

 

Hoses Engineered for Chemical Resistance

 PTFE Hose 

The gold standard for chemical compatibility. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is virtually inert, making it ideal for nearly every industrial chemical. It resists high temperatures, has a low friction coefficient, and won’t degrade over time. Use it when you need: 

  • High purity
  • Wide temperature range (-100°F to +500°F)
  • Maximum resistance to aggressive media 

UHMW Hose

 Ultra High Molecular Weight (UHMW) polyethylene hoses offer an excellent balance of chemical resistance and flexibility. They’re a smart choice for: 

  • Food-grade and FDA-compliant chemical transfers
  • Acidic and caustic media
  • Applications where cost and chemical resistance need to meet in the middle

XLPE Hose

 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) hoses offer reliable performance with many industrial chemicals and solvents. Key advantages include:

  • High resistance to alkalis and oxidizers
  • Lower permeation rates than standard rubber hoses
  • Lightweight and economical

Metal Hose

 When temperatures or pressures are off the charts, stainless steel corrugated hoses step in. They’re perfect for:

  • Steam and high-temperature transfer
  • Flammable or high-pressure chemicals
  • Environments where absolute non-reactivity is a must

Composite Hose

 Built in layers, composite hoses provide multi-barrier resistance and flexibility, making them ideal for:

  • Petroleum and chemical transfer at bulk facilities
  • Suction/discharge service for acids and solvents
  • Situations where custom compatibility is required

 

Fittings and Process Components That Last

 Your entire fluid transfer system, including fittings and inline components, must be chemically compatible, not just the hose. Our 316 stainless steel accessories are precision-engineered to deliver leak-tight, rugged connections that perform under pressure. Built to last, they resist corrosion even in high-acid environments, from high-flow valves and particulate filters to process gauges.

What to Consider When Choosing Chemical Transfer Components

 There’s no universal chart that fits every job. Selection depends on:

  • Chemical concentration and temperature
  • Pressure and vacuum requirements
  • Hose flexibility vs. rigidity needs
  • Static electricity concerns
  • Compatibility across all system components 

That’s where our team comes in. We’ll help you navigate compatibility charts, spec sheets, and real-world application data to find the safest and most efficient configuration for your operation. At Omni Services, we specialize in solutions that stand up to the most aggressive chemicals. From PTFE-lined hoses to corrosion-resistant stainless fittings, we carry the toughest products for your harshest applications.

Ready to get serious about chemical compatibility? Contact your local Omni Services branch or speak with one of our application specialists to build the right solution for your process.