Surprising Benefits of Thermoplastic Hydraulic Hoses

December 12, 2022

Historically, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) elect to equip their machinery with traditional rubber hoses, which should come as no surprise, as rubber hoses are tried-and-true solutions that have stood the test of time. 


But if you’re wondering whether rubber hoses are really the optimal solution for your hydraulic machinery, the answer might surprise you.

While high-quality rubber hoses are reliable, a thermoplastic hydraulic hose may serve to be a better option for your hydraulic applications. A thermoplastic hydraulic hose offers several distinct benefits when compared to its rubber counterpart, some of the most notable of which include the following:

Improved Performance and Reliability

The biggest advantage of using a thermoplastic hydraulic hose is that this kind of hose consistently outlasts rubber hoses. Thermoplastic exhibits exceptional durability and performance in hydraulic applications, meaning you are far less likely to experience any major malfunctions or downtime.


A thermoplastic hydraulic hose is also particularly useful if your application calls for a lengthy hose. As thermoplastic is more suitable for producing longer hoses, it can be used to do so without compromising performance.

Better Bend Radius and Flexibility

A thermoplastic hydraulic hose also provides a better bend radius and improved flexibility, making it useful for applications that involve a tight fit or odd angles. You can install a thermoplastic hydraulic hose at an arc that would otherwise compromise the function or performance of a rubber hose, as thermoplastic hoses are both lighter and thinner. 

Enhanced Abrasion Resistance

In a perfect world, hydraulic hoses would never be exposed to any external abrasive forces. However, we know that things are rarely, if ever, perfect when it comes to operating heavy machinery. Therefore, it is vital that your hydraulic hoses can resist abrasion and continue to function reliably.


Thermoplastic hydraulic hoses exhibit excellent abrasion resistance and are much more resistant to abrasion than rubber variants, meaning they are more suitable for deployment in harsh environments. 

Extended Shelf Life

Keeping hoses on hand ensures that you can promptly make repairs should your hydraulic equipment become damaged, but rubber hoses are notorious for becoming brittle when stored for longer-than-average time periods. Overexposure to UV light can also impact the shelf life of a rubber hydraulic hose. Conversely, a thermoplastic hydraulic hose can be stored indefinitely without breaking down, and it is more resilient to UV light as well.

Lighter Weight

Compared to a rubber hose, a thermoplastic hydraulic hose is much lighter because it does not have to be reinforced with steel mesh. The same cannot be said of rubber hoses. The lack of a steel mesh not only makes thermoplastic hoses lighter but thinner as well.

Ready to Make the Switch to a Thermoplastic Hydraulic Hose?

If you are ready to transition away from traditional rubber hoses in favor of a thermoplastic hydraulic hose, you need to partner with a reputable thermoplastic hydraulic hose supplier like Action Supply. Our experienced and client-oriented team can connect you with high-quality hoses for your hydraulic machinery. 


To learn more about our thermoplastic hydraulic hoses and other hydraulic solutions, contact Action Supply today.

September 17, 2025
When uptime, safety, and fluid integrity matter, choosing the correct fitting is the difference between a reliable system and unexpected downtime. The right fitting ensures a leak-free seal, matches pressure and fluid compatibility, and simplifies serviceability in the field. Action Supply builds and manages custom hose assemblies daily and can help match fittings to your exact application. Material Selection: Match the Environment Material choice impacts corrosion resistance, strength, and cost. Stainless steel (316 where marine exposure or salt spray is present) offers excellent corrosion resistance and strength for structural or submerged fittings. Brass is economical and machinable, and performs well in many freshwater or general industrial applications, but can corrode faster in saline environments. Choose material based on fluid chemistry, temperature, and exposure to salt or corrosives. A Practical Checklist for Choosing Fittings Identify the media: hydraulic oil, freshwater, saltwater, chemical — materials and sealing change accordingly. Confirm pressure & temperature ratings: match fittings and hose to the system’s max working and burst pressures. Match thread type and size: NPT ≠ BSP — use thread gauges or manufacturer tables if unsure. Choose sealing method: metal-to-metal (37° JIC/AN), ORFS face-seal, or thread-seal (NPT + tape/compound). Account for serviceability: will techs need to disconnect often? Choose fittings that tolerate repeated assembly. Plan for corrosion: in marine or corrosive environments choose 316 stainless, bronze, or specially coated parts. Document and label: record part numbers, thread specs, and orientation to remove guesswork on replacements. Installation & Testing Tips Use the correct torque spec for the fitting type; overtightening can damage seals or distort threads. For ORFS, always replace O-rings during reassembly and inspect sealing surfaces for nicks. For pipe threads (NPT), use appropriate thread sealant or PTFE tape and apply properly (direction, number of wraps). Pressure-test new assemblies at the manufacturer-recommended proof pressure before returning equipment to service. When to Call the Experts at Action Supply If your job is complex (mixed standards on site, high-pressure hydraulic systems, or marine installations), bring the assembly to the shop or have Action Supply’s on-site team build and verify the assembly. We offer on-site hose assemblies, inventory management, and industry-grade fittings (including Eaton/Weatherhead hoses and couplings) so you get the right part and verified performance the first time. Call (281) 315-3841 or use our contact form to request on-site assembly or inventory support.
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Avoid costly downtime this peak season. Learn 5 key warning signs your hydraulic hoses need replacing to keep your equipment safe and productive.
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Prepare your supply chain for hurricane season. Pre-stock hoses, fittings, and PPE with Action Supply to avoid delays and downtime. Be ready before storms hit.