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FOREWARD
This Hose Handbook has been compiled to provide authoritative information on materials,
constructions, tolerances, applications, fittings, storage, care and maintenance of hose.
This Handbook will help users to make an intelligent selection of hose for various
conditions of service and to set up procedures to obtain satisfactory service life.
The reader of this Hose Handbook is cautioned, however, that the information contained
herein is intended for general reference and general applicability only. The Hose Handbook
also reflects the current state of the art in the design, manufacture and testing of hose products
at the time of publication, but it cannot anticipate new developments or improvements in hose
products. Therefore, the reader is urged to determine from informed sources whether there
have been significant changes in the subject matter being considered before acting.
This Hose Handbook is not intended to cause or promote the selection or use of any type,
construction or application of a particular hose product. With respect to specific hose products,
their uses and applications, the reader should rely upon and closely follow the manufacturer’s
instructions as to the capability and limitations, as well as the proper use of the product.
Especially with respect to critical application of hose products and the testing procedures
described in this Hose Handbook, the reader is warned to follow the manufacturer’s safety
procedures with the utmost care. Wherever particular skills are required, only specially
trained persons should engage in those applications or testing procedures. Failure to do so
may result in damage to the hose product or to other property and, more importantly, may
also result in serious bodily injury.
The functions performed by hose – the materials, liquids and gases it conveys, and the
methods of handling it can vary widely. It is necessary to consider many factors when selecting
a type and grade of hose.
While a given application may call for a hose of special characteristics, certain common
standards have been established by the hose industry. These common standards, when properly
used, provide both the hose user and the hose manufacturer with a common “language” which
can be used to describe, develop, produce, and purchase hose of desired quality and suitability.
It is to this purpose that this Handbook is dedicated.
This Handbook was written by the RMA Hose Technical Committee. The Rubber
Manufacturers Association is a manufacturing trade association of more than 120 corporate
members which produce finished rubber and TPE products. RMA is a member-driven, results-
oriented, focused service organization which creates value for its members by addressing
industry issues, and providing programs and services in an efficient and effective manner.
RMA/IP-2/2003 1

