How does the flexing bend radius of a MIL-H-8794-5 hose at 3,000 psi compare to the same hose at maximum operating psi with no flexing?

When considering the flexing bend radius of a MIL-H-8794-5 hose at a specific pressure, such as 3,000 psi, it’s important to understand how pressure and bending affect the physical characteristics of the hose. The correct answer indicates that the bend radius increases in this scenario.

As the hose is pressurized, the internal pressure causes the walls of the hose to expand slightly. When the hose is flexed, this expansion is more pronounced because the material experiences additional stress. The bend radius, therefore, increases as the amount of force exerted by the fluid inside the hose works in conjunction with the bending action, leading to a greater radius under flexing conditions than it would have at maximum operating psi without any flexing.

This behavior occurs due to the elastomeric properties of the materials used in the hose construction. As pressure continues to increase, while squeezing or bending happens, the hose's material accommodates the increase in internal pressure while also altering its shape, thus resulting in a wider bend radius.

This concept is crucial for ensuring the operational integrity of hoses in high-pressure applications, as exceeding the recommended bend radius can lead to premature wear or failure of the hose. Understanding this relationship helps in maintaining safety and performance in hydraulic systems.