20 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS April/May 2026 www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS variations. Without proper accommodation, this stress can lead to cracks, leaks, or structural damage. Expansion joints are critical components of piping systems as they accommodate movement in the axial direction. Piping systems operating in environments where temperature fluctuations occur can experience growth in excess of six inches. Rigid piping systems cannot absorb that much movement; therefore, it is necessary for properly specified expansion joints to be included in the overall system design. Industry applications driving demand for customisation The benefits of customisation are especially evident across a range of industries with demanding operational requirements. Chemical plants require hose assemblies that can safely handle corrosive substances, while cryogenic applications demand materials that maintain flexibility at extremely low temperatures. Nowhere is this need more apparent than in data centers, where rapid global expansion is driving new infrastructure demands. Global data centre capacity has increased more than fivefold over the past two decades, reaching approximately 114 gigawatts in 2025, with double-digit annual growth accelerating in recent years. In the United States alone, there are now more than 4000 data centres, supported by a hyperscale market growing at over 30% in recent years. This surge is fueled by cloud computing and artificial intelligence, all of which require reliable cooling systems to maintain uptime. As a result, data centers depend on highly engineered hose assemblies to ensure consistent thermal management and system efficiency. Beyond data centers, HVAC systems benefit from optimised flow and durability; petrochemical facilities operate under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions that necessitate robust solutions; and power generation environments require components that can withstand constant thermal cycling. Long-term cost advantages While customised hose solutions may involve a higher initial investment, the long-term financial benefits are significant. Unplanned downtime costs industrial manufacturers an estimated $50 billion annually, with equipment failures representing a major share of operational losses, highlighting the value of reliable, application-specific components. In high-demand environments such as data centers or petrochemical facilities, even small efficiency gains can translate into substantial cost reductions at scale. When viewed from a lifecycle perspective, customization is not simply an upgrade but a strategic decision that supports operational excellence. Achieving these benefits requires close collaboration with a manufacturer capable of supporting application-specific design through appropriate engineering expertise and manufacturing capability. This supports a thorough, application-led approach to specification and design, taking into account operating conditions such as temperature, pressure, media compatibility, and regulatory requirements, as well as the mechanical and spatial constraints of the system. Access to appropriate engineering expertise, combined with a broad range of materials and component options, enables hose assemblies and expansion joints to be configured for specific duty conditions. This ensures that solutions are designed around performance requirements, rather than adapted from standardised products, improving reliability and long-term operational efficiency. Hoses are not a “one size fits all” solution. There are many variables that must be accounted for when designing a hose to fit a specific application. These variables include but are not limited to temperature, pressure, operating environment, chemical composition of media, ozone, routing and vibration. It is critically important to partner with reputable hose suppliers who offer engineering support and a wide range of manufacturing capabilities. This will ensure each hose is specified, designed and manufactured to meet the unique needs of each application. For further information please visit: https://sehose.com
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