Layflat hoses offer the ability to carry water or air as needed to a distributing point, but they also collapse to a flat position for easy storage when not in use. This function serves industrial settings well, as space can be limited in some applications. As valuable as layflat hoses can be, they are not always long enough to carry water or air the necessary distance.  

It is a common misconception that two layflat hoses cannot be joined. However, industrial manufacturers now provide layflat hose couplers to join hoses together as needed. If you have multiple hoses that need to be connected, the hose is only as good as the couple used to join them. Take a look at some of the features to look for in a layflat hose coupling for your setup. 

Look for couplers made of durable materials

Consider the environment where you will be using the hoses and couplers and pick couplers that can withstand that environment. For example, if the hoses will be used in an area where there is a great deal of exposure to saltwater, you will need couplers that can withstand consistent exposure to salt so they do not corrode. You may find layflat hose couplers in everything from brass to stainless steel, which makes it easy to find a unit that works best for your application. 

Make sure the coupler is the right size 

Before shopping for a layflat hose coupling, take note of the size of your hose ends. You will need the couplers to be the right size to work with the female ends of your hoses. Because layflat hoses come in different sizes, you will also find couplers in different sizes to accommodate secure connections. Even if the coupler is off by a few millimeters, it can cause problems with achieving a secure connection. 

Check out the coupler's connecting mechanism

Will you be leaving two layflat hoses connected for long periods, or will you consistently be disconnecting and reconnecting hoses? This is important to think about because it should affect what type of connecting mechanism you go for. A simple, threaded coupler will have to be screwed in place on both hoses, which can be problematic if the hoses are being reconnected and disconnected repeatedly. By contrast, you could go with a quick-connect version that simply requires you to pull back a spring-loaded collar and release it to position the coupler. 

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