How much lifetime can you expect from your blast hose? There are two factors that are the primary determinants. The first is the durability of the hose. Make sure that you are using a hose designed for blasting. One that is the appropriate thickness (1/4″ minimum – 3/8″ or 1/2″ even better) and preferably reinforced.
The second factor is how the hose is used during blasting. As the abrasive media flows through the hose, it will wear the hose from the inside out. If the hose is kept relatively straight, you can expect even wear and a long lifetime. If the hose is bent or looped, uneven wear will occur and bubbles or blow-outs can occur.
This picture shows a used blast hose from the outside. Notice the reinforcement and layered aspect of this properly designed hose.
While this hose might appear to be in good condition after use, take a look at the cross section of the interior. This blast hose was bent as it came off the blast pot. Notice the uneven wear around the inside – even wearing through the reinforcing cord.
Thank you to MasterBlaster for his post on contractortalk.com for sharing these pictures and insights.