Method of making reinforced flexible hose with leakage indicator

Abstract

A reinforced flexible hose that has at least one layer of stainless steel threads braided about the outer surface of the inner core and a transparent flexible polymeric covering located over the braided stainless steel threads, thereby protecting them from abrasion and corrosion. The covering is not in intimate contact with the circumference of each thread thereby trapping pockets of air between the covering and the threads. A moisture sensitive compound is dispersed through the stainless steel threads under the transparent covering. When the compound becomes wet, it changes from a first color to a second color indicating that the hose has failed.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 185,608, filed Aug. 4, 2008.FIELD OF INVENTION[0002]The invention pertains to reinforced hoses. More particularly, the invention relates to plastic core hoses with braided reinforcing, protective outer coverings and an integral leakage indicator for use in plumbing applications and related uses.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]A number of applications are best served by flexible hoses. Most notably, hoses connecting fixed plumbing outlets to vibrating machinery or appliances require the use of flexible hoses to prevent cracking and resultant leaks. Resilient materials, including various types of rubber and plastic, have been employed in situations requiring flexible hoses, however, a number of problems are typically encountered. The flexible materials employed in such hoses tend not to be as strong and resistant to higher pressures as solid, non-flexible materials. Further, such materials ten...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022]A reinforced flexible hose is provided. The hose has an interior tube for conducting a fluid. The tube has an inner bore and an outer surface, at least one layer of stainless steel threads braided about the outer surface and a transparent, flexible polymeric covering. The covering is located over the stainless steel threads and contacts them tangentially, thereby protecting them from abrasion and corrosion. Pockets of air are trapped under the transparent polymeric covering and between the strands of stainless steel. A moisture sensitive compound is provided. The compound changes from an initial color to a second color upon contact with moisture. The compound is dispersed in the pockets of air trapped between the threads and the transparent flexible polymeric covering. The flexible polymeric covering protects the steel braids from corrosion and abrasion. The pockets of air assist in insulating the interior tube and stainless steel braid. Moisture penetrating from the interior tube to the stainless steel threads, changes the moisture sensitive compound to the second color, indicating failure of the hose.

[0036]E. The flexible polymeric covering is slipped over the braid. This traps pockets of air between the covering and the braid thereby protecting the braid from abrasion and corrosion and improving the insulative properties of the hose. The moisture sensitive compound alerts the user to any leaks in the hose through a visual inspection.

[0037]The hose construction represented in this invention is an improvement over the prior art. Hoses in accordance with this invention have a smooth outer surface which is easier to clean. Since the outer covering is actually an independent member it is less likely to peel of and sustain damage during bending. Hoses constructed in accordance with this invention are thus stronger, more flexible and will inform the user of any leaks developing in the hose.

Problems solved by technology

Moisture penetrating from the interior tube to the stainless steel threads, changes the moisture sensitive compound to the second color, indicating failure of the hose.

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