4 Advice to Choose a china four wire spiral hydraulic hose

18 Aug.,2025

 

Difference Between 4SP and 4SH Hoses - Sinopulse

Hydraulic hoses are an integral part of hydraulic systems, and their role is to safely and effectively transfer hydraulic oil and other fluids under high pressure. In the hydraulic industry, choosing the right hydraulic hose is key to ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the system.
SINOPULSE, as a leading hydraulic hose manufacturer, focuses on providing high-quality hydraulic solutions, including two types of high-pressure hoses widely used in the industry - 4SP hose and 4SH hoses. Although these two hoses may be similar in appearance, their differences in design precision, structural reinforcement, and performance optimization customize their unique application scenarios. In this article, we will take a deep look at the differences between 4SP and 4SH hydraulic hoses, how they meet the needs of different hydraulic systems, and give you a suggestion on how to choose between these two hydraulic hoses, so that you can make the best product choice before purchasing.

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4SP Hose

en 856 4sp hoses

4SP hose is an abbreviation for "medium-pressure hoses with four plies of steel wire spiral," which refers to a category of steel wire spiral hydraulic hoses, specifically a four-layer spiral medium-pressure rubber hose.

  • Tube: high-quality synthetic rubber compounds.
  • Reinforcement: four-spiral high tensile steel wires.
  • Cover: abrasion and weather-resistant synthetic rubber.
  • Temperature: -40 °C to +125 °C (-40 °F to +212 °F).
  • Application: Very high-pressure applications are used for petroleum-based hydraulic fluids. Typically it is used in high-pressure hydraulic systems of heavy machinery, such as construction equipment, mining equipment, and industrial machinery.

The specification of the EN 856 4SP Hydraulic Hose

4SH HOSES

en 856 4sh hoses

The 4SH hose is also a multi-spiral hose but with more reinforcement layers. They are made of four to six layers of high-strength steel wire spirals, making them more robust than the 4SP hose. The additional reinforcement allows the 4SH hose to withstand extremely high-pressure conditions. The design of the 4SH hose also includes four strands of spiral winding, but the steel wire is specially strengthened to allow the hose to be used under high-pressure conditions. The 4SH high-pressure rubber hose is made of high-quality materials, featuring high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and flame retardance. At the same time, it also possesses good flexibility, compressive strength, and durability, capable of maintaining excellent performance under various complex conditions. Moreover, the structural design of the 4SH high-pressure rubber hose is reasonable, making it easy to install and maintain, significantly reducing the cost of use. Due to its outstanding performance, the 4SH high-pressure rubber hose is widely applied in various industrial fields. For example, in the petrochemical industry, the 4SH high-pressure rubber hose is used to transport various corrosive liquids; in the machinery manufacturing industry, it is used to connect various hydraulic equipment; in the automotive repair field, it is used to provide coolant for cars. Additionally, the 4SH high-pressure rubber hose is also broadly used in construction, electric power, firefighting, and other fields.

  • Tube: high-quality synthetic rubber compounds.
  • Reinforcement: four-spiral high tensile steel wires.
  • Cover: abrasion and weather-resistant synthetic rubber.
  • Temperature: -40 °C to +100 °C (-40 °F to +212 °F)
  • Application: suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications where fluids need to be reliably transferred under extreme pressure conditions. It is commonly used in construction machinery, mining equipment, and oil and gas drilling platforms to handle hydraulic fluids such as glycol, mineral oil, fuel, water, and air.

The specification of the EN 856 4SH Hydraulic Hose

Main Differences Between 4SP and 4SH Hose

The main differences between 4SP and 4SH hoses are their construction, pressure rating, and outer diameter size. While both hoses can handle high-pressure applications, 4SH hoses have a higher pressure rating due to their additional reinforcement layer. The increased strength of 4SH hoses makes them suitable for extremely demanding hydraulic systems.

DIN EN856 4SP and 4SH can be used in forklifts, hydraulic engines, oilfield extraction machinery, mining/road/construction machinery, and more.

Applications of 4SP Hose

4SP hoses are suitable for a wide range of industries and machinery involving high-pressure hydraulic systems. Some common applications include construction equipment, agricultural machinery, mining machinery, and industrial machinery. These hoses are ideal for systems operating at medium and high pressures.

Applications of 4SH Hose

Due to their excellent strength and ability to handle extreme pressure conditions, 4SH hoses are often used in heavy machinery and equipment. Industries such as mining, drilling, construction, and offshore operations rely on 4SH hoses to meet the stringent requirements of their hydraulic systems.

Conclusion

In summary, the difference between 4SP and 4SH hoses is their construction, reinforcement, and pressure rating. 4SP hoses have excellent flexibility and high pressure resistance, making them suitable for medium and high pressure hydraulic systems. On the other hand, 4SH hoses have enhanced strength to withstand extremely high pressure conditions, making them ideal for heavy machinery and demanding applications.

How to choose between 4SP and 4SH hoses

When choosing a hose for a specific hydraulic system, the right choice is not only about efficiency, but also about safety. 4SP and 4SH hoses, as two high-pressure hoses widely used in the hydraulic field, their selection depends on the following key factors:

1. Application pressure requirements

4SP hose: designed for medium and high pressure applications, suitable for systems that require good pressure resistance but not extreme.

4SH hose: designed to withstand extreme high pressure, suitable for applications that require ultra-high pressure resistance.

2. System working environment

External conditions: If the hydraulic system is exposed to severe environmental conditions, such as high temperature, strong mechanical wear, etc., the additional reinforcement layer of 4SH hose provides better protection.

Bending and flexibility requirements: The complexity of the system configuration and the requirements for the hose bending radius also affect the choice of hose type. 4SP hoses generally provide greater flexibility.

3. Durability and life expectancy

Long-term durability is an important consideration in determining cost-effectiveness. The additional reinforcement layer of 4SH hoses provides a longer service life, especially in high pressure and harsh environments.

4. Cost considerations

Despite the higher initial investment, the enhanced durability of 4SH hoses can reduce long-term maintenance and replacement costs. The initial cost should be weighed against the long-term benefits when making your selection.

5. Manufacturer specifications and recommendations

It is very important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and specifications. The professional recommendations provided by SINOPULSE are based on extensive industry experience and product performance testing to ensure that the hose you choose fully meets your application needs.

quick view different

Feature 4SP Hydraulic Hose 4SH Hydraulic Hose Definition 4-layer spiral steel-reinforced hose designed for high-pressure
applications 4 to 6-layer spiral steel-reinforced hose designed for extreme high-pressure
applications Standard EN 856 4SP EN 856 4SH Inner Tube Material Synthetic rubber (resistant to
hydraulic fluids) Synthetic rubber(more resistant to aggressive fluids) Reinforcement 4 layers of high-tensile steel wire
spirals 4 to 6 layers of high-tensile steel wire spirals Outer CoverMaterial Abrasion-resistant synthetic rubber Heavy-duty abrasion-resistant synthetic rubber Working Pressure(MPa/PSI) 35-45 MPa 25-42 MPa Burst Pressure(MPa/PSI) 140-180 MPa 100-168 MPa Temperature Range -40C to+125℃(-40F to+212°F) -40C to +100℃(-40°F to+212°F) CommonApplications Construction,industrial machinery, agricultural equipment Construction, industrial machinery, agricultural equipment

FAQ

Q1: what is 4SH Hydraulic Hose

The 4SH Spiral Steel Wire Hydraulic Hose features a four-spiral steel wire inner core for enhanced strength and durability, suitable for high-pressure applications. This robust design withstands extreme pressures and temperatures ranging from -40°F to 212°F, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance under harsh conditions. *Please note that reel lengths are not continuous

Q2: What Does 4SP Stand For?

The term 4SP refers to a specific type of hydraulic hose that adheres to the EN 856 4SP standard. The “4” indicates that the hose features four layers of steel wire spiral reinforcement, while “SP” stands for “spiral,” describing the spiral-wound structure that provides the hose with its strength and flexibility. This construction allows the hose to handle high-pressure applications effectively.

Q3: What Does 4SH Stand For?

The term 4SH refers to a hydraulic hose that complies with the EN 856 4SH standard. The “4” signifies that the hose is reinforced with four layers of steel wire spirals, while “SH” stands for “spiral high-pressure,” indicating that this hose is designed for applications requiring exceptionally high pressure. The additional reinforcement in 4SH hoses provides them with enhanced durability and pressure-handling capabilities compared to standard hoses.

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Q4: Can I use 4SP hose in high pressure applications?

A: Absolutely. 4SP hose is designed for medium to high pressure hydraulic system applications. Its high flexibility and pressure resistance make it an ideal choice for a wide range of industrial and heavy equipment applications.

Q5: Is 4SH hose more expensive than 4SP hose?

A: Yes, in general, 4SH hose may cost slightly more than 4SP hose due to the additional reinforcement layer and higher pressure rating. However, this additional investment can provide higher performance and safety for systems that need to withstand higher pressure applications.

Q6: If I need higher pressure resistance, can I use 4SH hose instead of 4SP hose?

A: Without a doubt, if your application environment requires ultra-high pressure resistance in the hydraulic system, it is a wise choice to choose 4SH hose. 4SH hose is designed to withstand extreme high pressures and can ensure excellent performance under the most severe conditions.

Q7: Can 4SP and 4SH hoses be used interchangeably?

A: Although 4SP and 4SH hoses can be used in many applications, we strongly recommend following the manufacturer's recommended usage guidelines for specific applications. Each type of hose is specifically designed to suit different pressure levels and environmental conditions, so choosing the right hose is essential to optimize performance and ensure safety.

Q8: What is the main difference between 4SP and 4SH hoses?

The main difference is the number of reinforcement layers; 4SH hoses have more layers, providing higher pressure resistance compared to 4SP hoses.

Q9: What temperature ranges can 4SP and 4SH hoses handle?

4SP hoses operate within -40°C to +125°C (-40°F to +212°F), while 4SH hoses are rated for -40°C to +100°C (-40°F to +212°F).

Braided Hydraulic Hoses Versus Spiral: Which to Use? - Brennan Blog

Braided Hydraulic Hose

Wire braided hydraulic hose incorporates one or two high tensile steel wires which are woven and crossed to overlap each other over a synthetic rubber or elastomeric hose. The wire braiding is performed on machines which wind the wire in a crisscross pattern around the hose. This type of overlapping braiding of the wire allows for flexibility to make tight bends and significantly improves burst resistance. Unlike spiral wound hose, braided hydraulic hoses withstand more tensile stress, allowing it to achieve these tighter bend radiuses.

Braided hose is the most popular hydraulic hose, primarily due to its excellent strength and flexibility. While available in an extensive selection of pressure ratings and sizes, the pressure rating is reduced with increases in inner tube ID. This equates to the hose having a four to one safety factor, with working pressure rated at a quarter of burst pressure.

Spiral Wound Hydraulic Hose

Spiral wound hydraulic hose is more rigid, commonly used in high pressure applications and where there are no significant space limitations that require the hose to be overly flexible. A spiral wound hose comprises of four or six wires depending on the application, helically wrapped and stacked on top of each other, rather than wound like a braided hose. Spiral hose incorporates high-tensile wire which provides the hydraulic hose with exceptional strength, yet it is also very inflexible, with a minimum bend radius. However, a smaller diameter allows for a tighter bend radius.

For instance, a small diameter spiral wound hydraulic hose can operate at PSI with just one layer of spiral, making it inherently flexible. Where a larger diameter hose may require four layers of spiral wire to handle PSI, which will make it very rigid with a highly reduced bend radius, resulting in less routing flexibility.

Spiral hydraulic hose has an extremely high resistance to pressure spikes, which is required for many large diameter, high-pressure applications.

Braided versus Spiral: What to Choose

It really comes down to gains and losses. If the application calls for very high-pressure hose that will experience higher impulses, then a spiral wound hose is the best choice. But you will sacrifice flexibility and make it difficult to build a system in a small space or connect to (devices) that have frequent articulating movement, such as a backhoe or robotic arm. In these applications, braided hose may be the best choice. In fact, according to Tech Briefs: “Robotic system designers should choose the right power source for the job. Often, electric motors are chosen without thinking about the benefits of hydraulics or pneumatics. For applications where precise control of large forces and smooth motion are required, or applications that require “forgiveness” in the motion, fluid power can deliver significant benefits compared to electromechanical motion.”

Take the example of using the same hose construction type in a braided hose, and then in a spiral wound hose, where flexibility is reduced as the diameter increases.

  • A ¼ inch ID 1-wire braided hose that’s rated for psi has a very flexible bend radius of 1 ½ inches. However, the same hose type that has a 1-inch ID and is rated for psi, has a drastically reduced bend radius of 5 ½ inches.
  • In the case of spiral hose, a ¼ inch ID would be rated for psi and have a minimum bend radius of only 5 inches, compared to the 1 ½ inches for a braided hose. And where the 1-inch ID spiral wound hose would still have a pressure rating of psi, but at 1 inch ID has a minimum bend radius of only 12 inches. It’s almost like bending a thick steel pipe. You’ll only get so much bend before it cracks. Yet, the spiral hose clearly can withstand much higher pressures and pressure spikes.

Choosing the Wrong Hose Type Can Cause Catastrophic Failure

Selecting the wrong hydraulic hose or improper installation and configuration can cause catastrophic failure. And it can happen almost immediately. If the minimum bend radius exceeded, or 1 or 2 braided hose is used under very high pressure, where a 4 or 6 wire spiral hose was the right choice., this can lead to leaks at the bend or cause the hose to burst. In either case, dangerous fluid can be quickly expelled causing damage to equipment or personnel.

Always check the manufacturer’s recommended bend radius and route the hose in a way that does not exceed the recommendation. If the hose bend radius is exceeded while in a suction or vacuum, it will likely become flat in the area of the bend, restricting flow, or even causing the hose to kink. It’s like bending a kink in your garden hose, but much worse something has to give.

Conclusion

Braided hoses are used in low to medium, less intensive pressure applications such as engines, hydraulic lifts and return lines. Spiral hoses are best for higher pressures and frequent pressure surges such as in hydrostatic drives, large off-road earth moving dump trucks or mining excavators. Simply put, braided hoses are ideal for high pressures requiring tight bend radius, where spiral hoses are best for extremely high pressure, high impulse applications.

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