Layflat hose is a PVC discharge hose that rolls flat for storage and lays out fast over long runs. It is the standard choice for pump discharge, dewatering and site water transfer. This guide compares our four grades so you can pick the right one for your pump and site.
Layflat grades at a glance
| Grade | Duty | Working pressure | Sizes | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | Light | 4 bar (50–200mm) or 6 bar (50–150mm) | 50, 75, 100, 150, 200mm | Irrigation and low-pressure water transfer |
| Red | Medium | 10 bar (50, 100mm); 8 bar (150, 200mm) | 50, 100, 150, 200mm | General dewatering and site water |
| Yellow | Medium, high-visibility | 10 bar | 50, 75, 100, 150, 200mm | Busy sites where the hose must be seen by vehicles and people |
| Black | Heavy (PVC/nitrile blend) | 15 bar (50, 100mm); 10 bar (150, 200mm) | 50, 100, 150, 200mm | Abrasive mine dewatering and high-head pumps |
All four are reinforced with high-tenacity polyester, supplied in 100m rolls, rated for −10 to +60°C, and have a burst pressure of about three times the working pressure.
Layflat is for discharge only
Layflat collapses when it is empty, so it cannot hold a vacuum. Use it on the delivery side of the pump only. On the suction side, use a hose with a rigid helix such as Heliflex or elephant hose. Our hose selection guide explains which suits which job.
Choosing the pressure rating
Pick a hose whose working pressure is above the highest pressure your pump can produce. As a rule of thumb, every 10 metres of pumping head is about 1 bar. A pump lifting water 60 metres up a pit wall therefore needs at least a 6 bar hose, before allowing for friction and surges. If the pump can run against a closed valve, use its shut-off pressure.
Choosing the size
Match the hose to the pump’s discharge outlet. On long runs, friction loss rises sharply in smaller bores and cuts the flow you get at the end of the line. If the run is long or the flow is critical, go one size up.
Ends and couplings
- Storz couplings: fast, symmetrical connections, ideal for joining many lengths on dewatering lines.
- Camlock couplings: a Type C on one end and a Type E on the other lets lengths join end to end.
- Hose tails with hose clamps for fixed connections.
We can supply layflat cut to length with couplings fitted. See our Camlock vs Storz guide to choose between them.
Looking after layflat hose
- Lay it out straight and avoid sharp kinks when it fills.
- Do not drag it over sharp rock or steel edges; the cover wears through first.
- Drain it fully, then roll it flat from one end to push out the remaining water.
- Store rolls out of direct sun when not in use.
Need bulk quantities, cut lengths or a made-up assembly? Request a quote, 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.
