Thread: Silicone Hoses and Plies

Hi Guys

I'm looking for some info on the number of plys recommended in Silicone hoses for the Td5 intercooler.

I'm leaning towards either Bell Autos custom made 5 plys or the cheaper TerraFirma ... any idea's on the amount of plys on TerraFirma?

Others on ebay are 4 ply but no idea of brand.

Does it make a difference?

Thanks

Craig

The SAMCO XDB hoses are probably the best on the market for the Td5.

XDB - Explained - SamcoXDB - Xtreme Duty Silicone Hoses

Their website has a bit of spin about the benefits of the construction method they use. The cuffed ends are good feature as this minimises the compression of hose material under the hose clamp and improves sealing.

There are some comparisons of blow-off which indicate that 3-ply is more resistant to blow-off than either black rubber or 4-ply hoses. Of course the XDB is more resistant to blow-off than the three-ply.


Another manufacturer actually argues that more plys are often worse!

SILICONE HOSES FAQ & INFORMATION

2. Are thicker hoses better?

Thicker 4ply+ hoses can be worse in most cases. There is no added value in burst pressure, heat rating etc... unless the same reinforcement is used. Most manufacturers use a very low quality raw materials, which forces them to make their hoses thicker in order to hold it's form/shape. Thick hoses often have leak issues from the clamping force needed to compress the hose. Also, they are not as pliable which makes them extremely difficult to install, EXTREMELY DANGEROUS to cut and remove from any application. The majority of manufacturers machine process their hoses, it provides them a cost effective method to mass produce hoses using polyester fabric, aramid, nomex, nylon and cheaper commercial grade silicone to compensate for "quality " silicone integrity. Any structural and high pressure application should have fiberglass centers.

cheers
Paul