scope:

This International Standard specifies three methods for measuring the flexibility of a hose (Method A1, Method B and Method C1) where the deformation of the hose is measured and two methods for measuring stiffness (Method A2 and Method C2) by measuring the force to bend the hose when rubber or plastic hoses or tubing are bent to a specific radius at ambient temperature. Method A1 and A2 are suitable for hoses and tubing of internal diameter up to and including 80 mm. Method A1 allows the measurement of the flexibility of the hose by measuring the reduction in outside diameter when the hose is compressed between two plates. Method A2 provides a means of measuring the force required to reach a specific bend radius (stiffness), when the hose is compressed as between two plates. The test may be carried out at a specified internal pressure. Method B is suitable for hoses and tubing up to and including 100 mm and provides a means of assessing the behaviour of the hose when bent around a mandrel. The final mandrel diameter used may be taken as the minimum bend radius of the hose. As this value is determined by the reduction of the O.D which can be used as a measure of the flexibility of the hose. The hose being tested may be unpressurised, pressurised or under vacuum and if required with the curvature or against the curvature of the hose if such curvature is present. Method C1 and C2 are suitable for hose of 100 mm and above. Method C1 provides a means of determining the flexibility of the hose at the minimum bend radius. Method C2 provides a method of measuring the stiffness of the hose at the bend radius.