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Choosing the Right Hose: Chemical Resistance and Material Compatibility in Liquid Cooling

Supplier Resource

Liquid cooling systems are an essential part of data center infrastructure and the hoses which convey the coolant are a key part of the system. However, due to the mix of coolant media, choosing the right hose isn’t always straightforward. Cross fluid conveyance partner Parker put together this guide to understanding hoses and how to match them to specific media.

The term “hose” refers to reinforced flexible piping. The basic components of a hose are (1) the tube (innermost liner), (2) the reinforcement (tension-bearing material helically wound around the tube to support pressure loading), and (3) cover (outermost layer which protects the reinforcement). The tube and cover layers are typically constructed from rubber or thermoplastic materials. Important note: a hose should not be confused with flexible tubing which is comprised of a homogeneous material (either rubber or thermoplastic) without composite reinforcement. The pressure resistance of tubing is determined solely by the strength of the polymeric material. Both hose and tubing are specified by inside diameter (ID). Hose dimensions are controlled by ID and OD (outside diameter), whereas tubing dimensions are typically controlled by ID and wall thickness. Hose designs for computer coolant will typically be low pressure rubber hose products with fiber reinforcement.

The appropriate chemical resistance is dependent upon choosing the correct elastomer material for the type of coolant used in the application. Parker’s hoses are made of rubber compounds using synthetic elastomeric polymers. These elastomeric polymers are composed of a series of polymer chains composed of different chemical species which are reacted together that are known as monomers. The orientation of the polymer chains along with using fillers such as carbon black has an impact on the material mechanical properties. The type of and number monomers determines the polymer “polarity” and will determine material compatibility with the desired service fluid.

The polymer type, filler material and polarity of the rubber vs polarity of the fluid are all factors that impact the ability of the rubber to limit the amount of material degradation. To minimize material degradation, it is common to choose a polymer with a polarity trait that opposes the polarity of the fluid. For instance, non-polar polymers such as butyl and EPDM are very resistive to permeation of polar fluids such as water. Water mixed with ethylene glycol can be semi-polar depending on the mixture ratio whereas propylene glycol/water mixtures tend to be more polar. Long term material integrity of the hose can be an important consideration for closed loop liquid coolant systems.

Liquid cooling systems for cooling IT gear electronics typically use a mixture of propylene glycol and deionized water. Other coolant mixtures are also possible and can be chosen to be maximize heat transfer over a specified temperature range or protect against phase change (freezing and evaporating). Additionally, biocides and corrosion inhibitors can be added to the coolant. It is recommended to review the fluid compatibility of all the elements of a fluid mixture with the hose manufacturer to be sure the inner liner of the hose (tube) is compatible with the fluid. In many cases, the coolant mixture will contain proprietary additives for which compatibility may be difficult to predict. The best way to verify compatibility is to conduct a physical test of the tube material with the specific coolant mixture.

Hose Product Division’s 627, 629 and 807 series products are designed specifically to optimally convey IT gear’s liquid cooling fluids from the data center building cooling towers down to the AI chip cold plates. The 627, 629 and 807 series products are all peroxide cured EPDM hoses that prevent cooling fluid permeation and particulate fouling.

Take a look at the Thermal Management Hoses Bulletin and reach out to our experts today or stop by one of our hose stores. We are here to help you find the perfect parts for your specific application needs! 

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