Length Calculation

Calculating the Hose Length

The formula for calculating the bent section of the hose length around a radius is derived from the basic formula that the circumference of a circle = 2πR, where R = the radius of the circle, and π = a constant, = 3.142.

So, if the hose goes around a 90˚ bend, which is ¹/₄ of a full circumference, and the radius of the bend is R, then the length of the hose around the bend is = ¹/₄ x 2πR. Or half way round, in a U-shape, = ¹/₂ x 2πR.

Note: In calculating the length of a hose assembly, the (non-flexible) length of the end fittings must be added in, also the length of any straight sections of hose, as in the following example:

Example:

To calculate the length for a 1” bore size hose with flange end fittings, to be fitted in a 90˚ configuration with one leg 400mm long, the other 600mm long.

Length of Bent Section (yellow) = ¹/₄ x 2πR (342) = ¹/₄ x 2 x 3.142 x 342 = 537mm

Length of top, Straight Section, including the top end fitting length = 600 - 342 = 258mm

Length of bottom end fitting = 58mm

Total length of Hose Assembly = 537 + 258 + 58 = 853mm

Things to consider

1. A hose will normally take the longest radius available to it to go around a corner, not the MBR! Also - always remember to include the non-flexible end fitting lengths.
2. In dynamic applications, remember to always calculate the lengths for the most extended configuration during the flexing cycle, not the least extended.
3. If the configuration is simply too complex for calculation, then obtain a length of flexible tubing of some kind, mark on paper, or a wall, or floor, or both where the connection points will be relative to each other, scaled down if necessary, then manually run the flexible tubing between them with full radii round bends. Measure the extended length, then scale up if necessary to determine the approximate length of the hose.

If in doubt, consult Aflex Hose.