Reinforced hose and associated method or manufacture

摘要

A hose includes a tube assembly (12) surrounded by a textile reinforcement (36) that is surrounded by a cover assembly (20). The tube assembly (12) includes an inner non-foamed layer (14) that is surrounded by a foamed layer (16) that is surrounded by an outer non-foamed layer (18). The textile reinforcement (30) surrounds the outer non-foamed layer (18) of the tube assembly (12) and preferably consists of a first spiral threading (32) and a second mesh threading (34). The cover assembly (20) includes an inner non-foamed layer (14) that is surrounded by a foamed layer (16) that is surrounded by an outer non-foamed layer (18). The adjacent relationship of the outer non-foamed layer (18) of the tube assembly (12) and the inner non-foamed layer (14) of the cover assembly (20) provide a substantial increase in adhesion between the two assemblies. Further, this configuration reduces the tendency for water seepage between the layer or plies that can cause bubbles and separation. Still further, the present configuration allows the foam layers to be blown with lighter densities for softness and reduced weight while not compromising hose integrity. Even further, the present configuration improves hose strength with a concomitant reduction in the amount of textile reinforcement (30). <IMAGE>