“SSti-Flex 1650”
“Aluminum Flex 400”
“SS-Flex 800”
“Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 300”
“Spiral-Lock (Hypalon) 275”
“Silico-550 Single Ply”
“Silico-550 Double Ply”
“Neo 300”
“Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma”
“Acrylic Flex 325 Air Handler”
“Acrylic Flex 325”
Screw Clamps
Steam Ducting
What kind of Ductwork is Used for Steam?
Steam is used in a vast range of industries for heating, sterilization, propulsion, atomization, cleaning, and humidification. Steam has long been a source of power for mechanical machinery as well. Steam is also the technical term for water vapor, which is formed when water boils at 100°C (212°F) at standard temperature and pressure. It also can increase in temperature after the phase change from water has occurred. For this reason, steam ducting that comes into contact with the gas must be able to withstand the temperature extremes, as well as the oxidizing qualities of the gas.
Steam venting requires high temperature resistant materials in order to meet the demands of a job without damaging the hose or putting an operator’s safety or machinery at risk. We offer a large selection of flexible ducting that can handle temperature highs from 325 to 1,650 degrees Fahrenheit. High temperature resistance is vital when dealing with the extreme high temperatures that are associated with steam applications. The wide temperature range of our flex ducts allows you to choose the best economical option to fit your high temperature needs. Choosing the right duct is important in the operation of your steam ventilation system and with our large inventory we can help you get the right tool for the application.
What is Steam?
Steam is produced from water. Scientifically, steam is the invisible fumes generated from water, when water is heated. Steam is the vapor formed when water changes from a liquid to a gaseous state. At the molecular level, this is when H2O molecules manage to break free from the bonds (i.e. hydrogen bonds) that are keeping them together. It is clean, odorless, and tasteless. What makes steam an effective tool in energy production and in industrial machinery is the fact that it is easily collected, distributed and controlled. Steam is renewable within the same ecosystem and its heat can be used again and again to generate power. In addition, steam gives up its heat at constant temperatures. This makes it very predictable and easy to manage. Eight percent of all electricity, internationally, is generated through the use of steam. This is generated with steam turbines using fossil fuels, nuclear and other sources of energy.
If water is heated, it will reach boiling point at about 100°C or 212°F, at sea level. This rapidly boiling water makes an effervescent noise due to all the forceful evaporation (i.e., the source of energy to drive turbines). Bubbles form on the surface of the water and at this temperature of 212°F liquid water cannot maintain its liquid state. Water will continue to evaporate into steam if the temperature levels are maintained. Steam is a specific kind of gas that is only created when water is boiled. And as liquid water turns into steam, it expands. Each cubic foot of liquid water that is boiled will expand to 1,600 cubic feet of steam!
“Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 300”
“Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 300”
- Outstanding resistance to external abrasion
- Extremely flexible
The “Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 250” is a high temperature duct that is made from single-ply neoprene coated polyester fabric that is mechanically crimped in a continuous process. This product is coated with Neoprene rubber and is recommended for fume ducting applications. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber (produced by the polymerization of chloroprene) and offers good chemical resistance and flexibility over a wide range of temperatures. This flex duct’s fabric is locked around a coated steel wire by a metal strip which is formed into a clip. This metal clip acts as a wear-strip that protects the integrity of the “Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 250” and provides excellent abrasion resistance. This hose is also extremely flexible, making it ideal for hard to reach areas that require ventilation.
The “Spiral-Lock (Neoprene) 250” high temperature duct operates at both high and low temperatures. This hose has a working temperature range of -65 degrees to +250 degrees Fahrenheit. The neoprene coating allows the high-temp exhaust hose to maintain its flexibility over a broad range of temperatures while resisting degradation more than natural or synthetic rubbers. The combination of the abrasion resistance of Neoprene and the exterior metal clip makes this hose ideal for vehicle exhaust applications that may see external abrasion. If this high-temp exhaust hose requires even more external protection, a polyurethane clip cover designed to protect the helix is also available.
“Silico-550 Single Ply”
“Silico-550 Double Ply”
“Neo 300”
What is the Temperature of Steam?
At sea level steam should be produced at 212°F or 100°C. As elevation increases boiling temperatures drop and can be as low as 190°F (12,000 feet). At higher elevation, atmospheric pressure is lower. Most discussions about steam assume that it will be handled at sea level. Atmospheric pressure has a lot to do with the temperature at which steam is produced. Atmosphere’s air around you has weight, and it pushes against all materials it is around. Atmospheric pressure is closely associated with the hydrostatic pressure caused by the weight of air above the measurement point. As altitude increases, there is less overlying atmospheric gas and mass, so atmospheric pressure drops as elevation increases. Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted on a surface (regardless of its state) by the air above it as gravity pulls it to Earth.
“Silico-550 Single Ply”
“Silico-550 Single Ply”
- Suited for high temperature air handling applications
- The narrow pitch allows for tight bending radius while maintaining a smooth air flow
- Non-kinking
The “Silico-550 Single Ply” is a high temperature hose designed for air and fume movement and is made from single-ply silicone coated fiberglass fabric. Each fume hose is reinforced with a spring steel wire helix and external filament cord. This spring steel wire allows the flexible high temperature hose to have both durability and flexibility. Keep in mind however, that although flexible, this hose is not recommended for continuous flexing. The hose construction gives the high temp hoses the ability to be used in various industrial settings that require the transfer of high temperature air and fumes.
The “Silico-550 Single Ply” has an operating temperature of -65 degrees Fahrenheit to +500 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the high temperature hose apart from similar products because it allows the fume hose to be used in environmental extremes of both high and low temperatures. The structure of the fume hose allows for a tight bending radius without becoming kinked and restricting airflow. The silicone-coated fiberglass also makes the flexible high temperature hose resistant to other elements such as water, fungus and alkalis.
“Aluminum Flex 400”
What is the Temperature Rating of a Steam Hose?
Since the temperature of steam is 212°F or 100°C, then flexible steam ducts used to move steam need to be able to handle temperatures above 212°F. This is one of the criteria by which a steam exhaust duct is chosen for moving this heated gas. Aluminum, stainless-steel, silicone, and acrylic coated fabrics are all a great choice for conveying steam and all of these ducting materials can accommodate temperatures above 212°F.
- Stainless-steel steam ducting benefits from the presence of chromium in their material makeup. Chromium is critical in the manufacturing of stainless steel. Most stainless steel contains about 18 percent chromium; it is what stabilizes and reinforces plain steel and toughens it in resistance to corrosion, more specifically at high temperatures. This allows this versatile metal to resist corrosion from moisture. Stainless steel steam exhaust ducts can handle temperature up to 800°F and 1,650°F (we offer two types). This more than covers the maximum temperatures at which steam operates. Stainless-steel steam hose products are an excellent choice!
- Aluminum steam ducts do not rust and can handle up to 280°F and 400°F max temperatures (we offer two options here as well). In addition, aluminum steam venting hoses are more affordable than stainless-steel and these combined makes aluminum a good option.
The fact that aluminum does not rust, makes this hose a great long-term investment. Rust is a specific type of corrosion referring to the oxidation of iron or steel caused by interaction with water or moisture. Corrosion is an expansive reference to the slow deterioration of aluminum caused by a chemical reaction. Since aluminum does not contain iron or steel, it does not rust. - Silicone ductwork can handle temperatures of up to 550°F. Silicone is a rubber product and it is waterproof when applied onto a fabric. This allows silicone rubber coated materials to be waterproof. This means light moisture cannot penetrate silicone coated steam ducting. Silicone flex ducts are available in longer lengths and are far more flexible and compressible than their metal counterparts.
“Aluminum Flex 400”
“Aluminum Flex 400”
- Self supporting construction allows for bends to stay in place
- Designed for extreme temperature applications
The “Aluminum Flex 400” hi-temp hoses are great for funneling above ambient industrial air and fume. The metallic silver lightweight hose is constructed from a single-ply, helically corrugated aluminum alloy. The walls of the flexible ducts are constructed using a durable four-ply finished seam that has been folded flat and crimped for binding and strength. With a working temperature range of -100 to + 400 degrees Fahrenheit, these aluminum ducts are built to withstand extreme temperature applications. They are made to resist fatigue, weathering, and most corrosive fumes and chemicals. Aluminum flexible ducts are far more durable than their elastomeric counterparts, even when corrosive fumes are present.
“Aluminum Flex 400” flexible ducts can be purchased in either 5 or 10 ft lengths. The flexible ductwork is available in several internal diameter sizes including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 12 inches with internal diameter tolerances of -0.00 to +0.250 inch. These lightweight ducting can be utilized in a variety of applications that includes removal of the following: chemical fumes, circuit board cooling, exhaust systems, HVAC, oil mist removal, pollution control and ventilation. If you have any questions or need further assistance with these hi-temp hoses, please do not hesitate to contact one of our ducting experts today.
Screw Clamps
What is Condensation’s Effect on Ducting?
This is a reminder that steam hose and ducting will see moisture throughout their working lives. Since moisture will be a part of what these flexible ducts move, the material that steam ducting is made from needs to be able to handle moisture. When will steam hoses see liquid moisture?
Condensation is the opposite of creating steam and is the conversion of water vapors back into their liquid state. If evaporation is the alteration of liquefied water to steam vapor, then condensation is what takes place in reverse. Condensation takes place in two ways, either the air is cooled to its dew point, or it becomes so saturated that it cannot hold any liquid water.
Dew point is the temperature at which condensation happens. In scientific terms, the dew point is the temperature at which the water vapor condenses into liquid water at the same rate at which it evaporates. Condensation can also produce water droplets in a glass of cold water. When warm air hits the cold external material, it is stretched to its dew point and then condenses. This leaves droplets outside of a cold glass of water.
“Neo 300”
“Neo 300”
- Offers higher temperature characteristics than traditional neoprene hoses
- Non-kinking
The “Neo 300” is a flexible high temperature hose that can be used in a variety of applications and industries. The black pipe hose is constructed using double-ply neoprene coated woven fiberglass fabric with an external filament cord. These high-temp hoses are then strengthened and reinforced with a spring steel wire helix. This heavy-duty construction and design is ideal when dealing with industrial air movement and fume control applications. For a list of chemicals which this hose can handle please refer to our “Chemical Resistance Chart.” The pipe hose has a working temperature range from -40 to +300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Each “Neo 300” flexible high temperature hose has a narrow pitch that allows for a tight bending radius while maintaining the ability to offer a smooth airflow. This flex duct is designed to handle low and negative pressure at moderate temperatures. This flexible high temperature hose has the capacity to offer higher temperature characteristics than the traditional neoprene high-temp hoses. The sturdy pipe hose is made to be non-kinking, but continuous flexing should be avoided when possible. Since it does have a rubber component, it inherits some of the elasticity of rubber, which gives the hose longer life when flexed.
“SS-Flex 800”
Stainless-Steel Steam Exhaust Dusts
Having durable and heat resistant tools are essential when dealing with applications that require the ventilation of steam. Using the right steam ducting has economic benefits, increases productivity, and maximizes safety. Whether you need a flexible, durable, or high temperature hose, we can provide you with the best product to get the job completed. As steam venting applications are very safety-intensive, it is important that you learn as much as possible about steam hoses prior to installing them.
For maximum heat resistance and durability, we offer several products made of stainless-steel. Stainless steel steam hoses offer self-supporting structures, allowing you to bend the steam ducting into the position you desire at which time it will maintain its shape. These metal flexible ducts also provide great durability and crush resistance. Incredibly heat resistant and durable, stainless steel ducting hose is often used in environments that see multitudes of heat generated (like steam ventilation and collection). Stainless-steel flex-duct are especially valued because they are non-kinking and can be bent and manipulated in a variety of ways. This, in addition to tier self-supporting feature, makes them ideal for use in tight and complicated work areas, allowing the free and flexible installation of duct works system. The thick heavy stainless wall of these ducts additionally prevents breakages and tears in your ducts, allowing them to function with any compromising leaks or excess venting.
“SS-Flex 800”
“SS-Flex 800”
- Self-supported construction allows for bends to stay in place
- Resists metal fatigue, weathering, & moisture corrosive fumes & chemicals
- Not recommended for continuous flexing
- Hose connectors available
The “SS-Flex 800” stainless steel hose is also very resilient to high and low temperature extremes. This flexible high temperature hose has a temperature range of -400 degrees to +800 degrees Fahrenheit. This truly wide temperature range gives this flexible steel hose great versatility, allowing it to be used in a large variety of industries. Stainless steel’s resistance to corrosion and staining, low maintenance and familiar luster, makes it an ideal material for many applications. This flexible high temperature hose is also an aesthetic choice in commercial kitchens with exposed fume hoods.
The “SS-Flex 800” stainless steel hose comes in a standard length of both 5 and 10 feet with plain cut ends. Available ID sizes for this flexible hose range from 2 to 12 inches. This flexible high temperature hose has a wall thickness of 0.005 inches. Straight union connectors for this stainless hose are also available. This flexible high temperature hose is perfect for applications requiring the movement of gases such as pollution control, some ejectors, vehicle exhaust, HVAC, and high temperature exhaust. If you have questions or need additional information please, do not hesitate to give one of our ducting specialists a call today!
“Acrylic Flex 325 Air Handler”
“Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma”
“Acrylic Flex 325”
Acrylic-Flex Steam Exhaust Dusts
Another popular type of material for steam hoses is acrylic coated polyester fabric ducts. Acrylic coated polyester fabric hoses are reinforced with a spring steel wire helix and some have an external PVC wearstrip. The wearstrip helps in protecting the duct if the flexible hose is moved along the ground if it is commonly moved.
Though generally not as heat resistant as stainless steel, acrylic coated polyester commercial duct is usually more flexible and lighter in weight, which means that it can function remarkably well in overhead ventilation exhaust systems in ceilings. This makes for a flexible duct that is easy to handle and install. As an added bonus, some options in acrylic coated polyester flex ducting are fire retardant, making for a duct that is fire-rated. This series of flexible ducting works well, when extra flexibility or compressibility is needed, or perhaps when an application requires that the hose be moved continuously. The ease of handling of the acrylic coated line of steam hoses is in contrast to the heavier and less flexible metallic products.
“Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma”
“Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma”
- Manufactured with FDA acceptable materials
- Designed for applications with wide temperature ranges
- Good abrasion resistance
- Ideal for clean room applications
The “Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma” high temperature hose is recommended for industrial air movement, dust control, and light bulk material handling applications. These white flexible hoses are manufactured with FDA approved materials, making for a food grade hose that is designed for applications with wide temperature ranges. Some unique properties of this product are: the hose is food grade, it is able to withstand up to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, and is available in a large diameter flexible hose size.
The “Acrylic Flex 325 Pharma” is available in a wide range of internal diameters. Otherwise known as I.D., internal diameter refers to the straight-line segment that passes through the center of the circle (i.e. the hose entry.) This hose can be purchased in I.D. sizes from 1.5 inches to 24 inches. Each high temperature hose is custom made to order and has a 2-4 week lead time. The white flexible hoses are sold in standard lengths of 25 ft, although custom lengths are available upon request. This high temperature hose has a plain cut end, but sewn end-cuffs are also available.