EN 14800 «Corrugated safety metal hose assemblies for the connection of domestic appliances using gaseous fuels» is a key document regulating the quality and safety of flexible metal hoses used to connect gas appliances in residential premises.
Gas hoses made in accordance with this standard are safe, reliable, leak-proof and capable of operating uninterruptedly throughout their entire service life. This is exactly what the Eco-Flex Gas EN14800 gas hose manufactured by our company.
Main requirements of the EN 14800 standard
The EN 14800 standard covers the requirements for materials, construction, testing, marking and user information for flexible metallic hoses.
Construction and materials
A typical hose made to EN 14800 has a three-layer construction:
- Internal corrugated tube: Usually made of high-quality stainless steel (e.g. AISI 316L), which provides flexibility, resistance to corrosion and chemical impact by gas. Corrugation allows the hose to withstand repeated bends without losing its tightness.
- Braiding: The outer layer of stainless steel braiding (e.g. AISI 304) gives the hose mechanical strength, protects against overloads, mechanical damage and increases pressure resistance.
- External protective coating: PVC coating with flame resistance properties protects the hose from external influences, such as aggressive household products, moisture, dust, and makes it easier to clean.
Fittings and connections
Features of fittings and connecting elements:
- Made of corrosion-resistant materials (e.g. stainless steel or nickel-plated brass).
- The connection between the hose and fittings must be securely welded (often by laser welding) to ensure tightness and durability.
- The gaskets must be made of non-flammable, gas-resistant materials (e.g. biconite).
Operational requirements and tests
The EN 14800 standard establishes a number of requirements for the operation of hoses. To confirm that the hoses meet the established requirements, a number of tests must be carried out.
- Tightness. One of the most important aspects is the complete tightness of the hose and its connections. The standard sets strict requirements for gas leak tests to ensure that there are no leaks. Usually the tests are carried out under high pressure using special gas analyzers or soap solutions to detect the slightest gas leaks.
- Pressure resistance: Hoses must withstand the operating pressure of the gas, as well as have a safety margin to prevent ruptures or deformations during possible pressure surges. The standard specifies the maximum operating pressure and the burst pressure, and it is these parameters that are determined in the tests.
- Temperature resistance. Hoses must maintain their properties over a wide temperature range, both under normal operating conditions and at extreme temperatures (e.g. in the event of a fire). The hose’s behavior at high and low temperatures is tested.
- Bending and torsion resistance. To ensure durability and safety, hoses must be resistant to repeated bending and twisting that may occur during installation and operation. For this, operational loads are simulated, allowing the durability of the product to be assessed.
- Tension. The strength of the material and connections is checked.
- Corrosion resistance: Materials must be resistant to corrosion from moisture, aggressive substances or environmental conditions. The corrosion resistance of materials is assessed.
Marking
Each hose complying with EN 14800 must be clearly and indelibly marked. The marking usually includes:
- Manufacturer’s name or trade mark.
- Standard number (EN 14800).
- Date of manufacture (month and year).
- Hose length.
- Maximum working pressure.
- Other identification data necessary for traceability.
User information
The manufacturer is obliged to provide clear and comprehensive information on the installation, use and maintenance of the hose. This information should include:
- Safe installation instructions.
- Recommendations for leak testing after installation.
- Precautions against improper use of the hose.
- Hose service life and recommendations for its replacement.
- Care and storage rules.
Importance of the EN 14800 standard
The EN 14800 standard plays a key role in ensuring the safety of domestic gas equipment. Compliance with this standard by the manufacturer ensures that the hoses entering the market meet high safety and reliability requirements, thereby reducing the risk of gas leaks, fires and explosions.
For consumers, choosing a hose certified to EN 14800 is a guarantee of using a proven and reliable component of the gas system. When purchasing a gas hose, you should always pay attention to the presence of the appropriate marking and certification according to this standard.
Overall, EN 14800 is an important tool for ensuring safety and quality in the gas industry, protecting both consumers and the environment from potential dangers associated with poor-quality gas equipment.
