Picking the wrong hose is the most common reason dewatering and transfer lines fail early. The quickest way to choose is to answer two questions: is the hose on the suction or the delivery side of the pump, and what is going through it?
Suction or delivery?
On the suction side, the pump pulls a vacuum, so the hose needs a rigid helix to stop it collapsing. On the delivery side, the hose is pushed outward by pressure, so a flexible, collapsible hose like layflat is fine.
Hose types compared
| Hose | Suction | Delivery | Best for | Avoid for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Layflat (PVC) | No | Yes | Long discharge runs, dewatering, irrigation; light and rolls flat | Suction lines, sharp abrasive solids |
| Heliflex (PVC with helix) | Yes | Yes | Pump suction and short delivery runs with clean or dirty water | Heavy slurry, high temperatures |
| Elephant hose (rubber) | Yes | Yes | Slurry, sand, gravel and heavy-duty dewatering; abrasion-resistant liner | Light-duty jobs where weight matters |
| PVC mining hose | No | Yes | Underground air and water services, rock drills (SANS 1086) | Fuels and oils |
| Rubber air hose | No | Yes | Compressors, jackhammers and breakers | Suction |
| Petroleum suction hose | Yes | Yes | Fuel and oil transfer, tanker offloading (anti-static) | Water-only duty (over-specified) |
Four checks before you order
- Bore size: match the pump inlet and outlet. A smaller suction hose starves the pump.
- Pressure: the hose working pressure must be above the pump’s maximum pressure, including surges.
- Media: water, slurry, fuel or chemicals each need a different tube material.
- Ends: cuffed ends with clamps, flanges (state the table, e.g. 1000/3), Camlock or Storz couplings.
Liner thickness for slurry
For abrasive slurry, the liner wears first. A 3mm liner suits general dewatering with fine solids. A 6mm liner suits sand, gravel and tailings, and lasts noticeably longer in hard service.
Fittings to go with your hose
- Camlock couplings and Storz couplings for quick connections
- Hose clamps sized to the hose outside diameter
- Swage nipples to connect hose to flanges and pipe
Tell us your pump model, what you are pumping and the distance, and we will recommend the hose and fittings. Call 010 022 4049 or email info@syre.co.za. Same-day delivery in Gauteng and Mpumalanga on orders placed before 12pm, and delivery to other provinces across South Africa.
