Core Similarities and Differences
While both metal hoses and bellows serve as essential flexible connectors in industrial systems, they exhibit distinct characteristics:
Sealing Performance
Bellows offer superior airtightness due to their solid material construction
Traditional metal hoses may have slight leakage (stainless steel strip winding design)
Modern metal hose technology continues to improve sealing capabilities
Material and Construction
Bellows: Formed from seamless or welded metal tubes
Metal hoses: Flexible elements wound from stainless steel strips with optional braiding
Primary Applications
Both components excel in transferring:
Steam systems
Hydraulic fluids
Petroleum products
Industrial gases
Metal Hose Advantages
Customization Options
Adjustable lengths
Configurable end fittings
Multiple material grades
Performance Characteristics
Excellent temperature resistance (-200°C to +600°C)
High pressure tolerance (up to 1000+ psi in braided models)
Superior vibration dampening
Industry Applications
Aerospace: Missile fuel systems
Energy: Turbine connections
Manufacturing: Heavy equipment
Food Processing: Sanitary transfers
Critical System Roles
Absorb pipe system expansion/contraction
Reduce mechanical vibration
Compensate for misalignment
Dampen noise transmission
Technical Specifications
Our stainless steel products meet all domestic standards for:
Wire braided hoses
Fluid transfer bellows
Fire-resistant models
Orientflex provides:
Full-range metal hose selection
Leak-proof joint designs
Custom engineering support
End-to-end system integration
Why Choose Our Metal Hose Solutions?
30% longer service life than industry average
Military-grade quality for critical applications
One-stop sourcing for hoses and fittings
Technical support for proper selection
For your most challenging transfer system requirements, our engineers can recommend the optimal solution between metal hoses and bellows based on your specific:
Pressure needs
Temperature ranges
Movement requirements
Chemical compatibility
Contact our technical team today for a free application analysis and product recommendation. We’ll help you select the right flexible connector solution that balances performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness for your operation.