Coiled air hose reels streamline hydraulic hose management by reducing tangles within complex systems, and they also protect your hoses from damage, improving workplace safety. In this article, we will look at how to choose the right coiled air hose reel for your application.
There are three main types of coiled air hose reel, categorised by the way they operate:
1. Spring-loaded reels
These components use an internal spring mechanism to retract the hose when not in use. The spring is pre-tensioned, so as the hose pulls out the spring accumulates energy. When released, the spring retracts the hose back onto the reel.
Benefits
- Reduces manual effort and saves time in busy environments
- Avoids trip hazards from hoses being left on the floor
- Compact and lightweight design for simple mounting on walls, ceilings, or workbenches
- Ratchet lock or latch mechanism to hold your hose at the desired length during use
- No independent power source needed
Applications
- Automotive workshops for fluid delivery or air tools
- Industrial assembly lines that require frequent use and quick cleanup
- Maintenance areas that need fast access to hoses for lubrication or cleaning
2. Manual Reels
Manual reels are operated by a hand crank or handle, allowing you to manually wind the hose back onto the reel after use.
Benefits
- Greater manual control over hose deployment and retraction, potentially reducing the risk of damage or tangling
- Fewer moving parts that could fail, arguably making them more reliable than spring-loaded reels
- Good for heavy duty hoses that may be too stiff or thick for spring-loaded reels
Applications
- Industrial fluid transfer systems that use long and heavy hoses
- Agricultural irrigation or chemical spraying plant
- Construction sites, outdoor quarries, mining operations, and other rugged environments
3. Mechanical/Motorised Reels
Mechanical reels use an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic motor to automatically deploy and retract hoses – delivering consistent and effortless performance even for heavy and stiff hoses.
Benefits:
- Minimises manual effort and saves time during busy projects while also reducing operator fatigue
- Many models have adjustable speed and tension controls
- Stationary and portable versions available
Applications:
- Large industrial and manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, and oil refineries
- Applications with long hose runs that are impractical for manual retraction
Choosing The Right Reel For Your Application
As was seen from this overview, there are several considerations when selecting a reel. Firstly, consider the hose length and weight – motorised or self-retracting reels are often better suited for long and heavy hoses. Secondly, frequency of use is also important. Spring-loaded reels are perfect for frequent requirements as these save time without cluttering the workspace, while manual reels might be better for occasional use. And thirdly, let’s consider cost. Spring-loaded reels are generally the most cost-effective, while motorised reels have a higher price point. However, the time and effort savings of a motorised reel are often worth it if the features align with your needs.
Find Out More
Please browse our range of PCL industrial coiled air hose and reels to purchase online, and feel free to contact one of our specialists directly if you need help selecting the right product for your application.
