How to Match 4SH Hose Size to Working and Burst Pressure

14, Oct. 2026

 

How to Match 4SH Hose Size to Working and Burst Pressure

Match a 4SH hose to the highest pressure the complete hydraulic circuit can experience, then confirm that the chosen hose size has a working-pressure rating at least that high. Do not use burst pressure as the allowable operating pressure: burst is a failure-limit specification, not a normal working target. In EN 856 4SH, pressure ratings generally vary by nominal bore, so a larger hose is not automatically rated for the same pressure as a smaller one. Check the exact hose and fitting assembly data from your supplier before ordering or installation.

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Understand Working Pressure and Burst Pressure

Working pressure is the selection limit

Working pressure is the maximum pressure specified for normal hose service under the conditions stated by the manufacturer. Compare it with the circuit’s maximum operating pressure, including pressure peaks that can occur during starting, stopping, load changes, or valve operation. If the system has known surges, use measured or reliably specified peak pressure rather than relying only on the nominal pump setting. The hose’s pressure rating must remain suitable at the applicable temperature and in the intended application.

Burst pressure is not a usable operating rating

Burst pressure describes a destructive test limit; it does not mean the hose can safely operate near that pressure. EN 856 4SH hose is commonly specified with a 4:1 burst-to-working-pressure relationship, meaning the stated minimum burst pressure is four times the working-pressure rating. For example, a hose rated at 420 bar working pressure corresponds to 1,680 bar at a 4:1 burst ratio. This relationship is a safety design criterion, not permission to run the system above 420 bar.

Step-by-Step 4SH Hose Size Selection

1. Identify the hose size and its pressure rating

Read the hose marking or supplier datasheet to confirm the EN 856 4SH type and nominal size. The dash size refers to the hose’s nominal inside diameter in sixteenths of an inch, while DN is the metric nominal bore designation. Use the manufacturer’s table for the exact product, because ratings can differ among product constructions and suppliers. Do not infer a rating from appearance or from another hose family.

Nominal size Common dash size Indicative working pressure Indicative burst pressure at 4:1
DN 10 -6 420 bar 1,680 bar
DN 12 -8 400 bar 1,600 bar
DN 16 -10 350 bar 1,400 bar
DN 19 -12 320 bar 1,280 bar
DN 25 -16 280 bar 1,120 bar
DN 31.5 -20 210 bar 840 bar
DN 38 -24 180 bar 720 bar
DN 51 -32 160 bar 640 bar

The figures above are indicative examples of commonly listed EN 856 4SH ratings, not a substitute for a product-specific datasheet. The burst figures are calculated from the 4:1 relationship and should not be treated as operating pressures. Confirm the rating, size designation, temperature range, and applicable standard edition with the supplier before specifying a hose.

2. Compare the rating with circuit pressure

Write down the system’s maximum pressure and compare it with the hose working-pressure rating for the selected bore. The hose rating must equal or exceed the highest pressure expected in service; a margin should not be created by treating burst pressure as extra capacity. If pressure spikes are possible but not documented, ask the equipment designer or measure the circuit with suitable instrumentation. A change to a higher-pressure hose does not correct an unsuitable pump, valve, or pressure-control setting.

3. Check flow requirements as well as pressure

A hose bore must also carry the required flow without creating unacceptable pressure loss, heat, or fluid velocity. Choosing a smaller bore solely because its listed working-pressure rating is higher may compromise hydraulic performance. Conversely, choosing a larger bore for flow can mean selecting a size with a lower pressure rating. Use the equipment manufacturer’s flow and pressure requirements, then verify that one suitable 4SH size meets both.

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4. Confirm fittings and assembly compatibility

A hose assembly is only as suitable as its components and construction. Confirm that the hose, inserts, sockets, and connection type are specified as a compatible assembly for the required working pressure and service conditions. Follow the assembly supplier’s instructions for crimp dimensions and inspection, rather than combining components based only on nominal size. Check that connection threads and sealing faces also match the equipment ports.

Key Decision Points Beyond the Pressure Table

Temperature, fluid, and routing

Pressure capacity must be considered together with operating temperature, hydraulic-fluid compatibility, and the hose’s installation conditions. A datasheet may state limits or derating guidance that affect the usable rating, so ask the supplier to confirm the rating for the actual service environment. Check minimum bend radius and avoid twisting, crushing, abrasion, or tension during installation. A hose that meets the pressure figure on paper may still be unsuitable if it is routed or used outside its stated limits.

Pressure peaks and duty cycle

Repeated pressure cycling can be more demanding than steady operation, so identify whether the application involves frequent starts, pulsation, impact loading, or continuous high-pressure duty. Use the hose manufacturer’s stated impulse or application guidance where available; do not assume a burst rating predicts service life. When duty details are uncertain, provide the supplier with pressure, cycle, temperature, and operating-time information for a more informed recommendation. This is especially important when replacing an existing hose with a different bore or construction.

Common Selection Mistakes

  • Using burst pressure as working pressure: burst is a destructive limit and must not be used as the normal system rating.
  • Assuming all 4SH sizes have one pressure rating: pressure ratings commonly change with nominal bore.
  • Selecting by dash size alone: also confirm the actual product designation, bore, fittings, and datasheet.
  • Ignoring transient pressure: a nominal operating value may not include peaks caused by circuit operation.
  • Oversizing pressure while undersizing flow: pressure suitability does not prove the bore is right for the required flow.
  • Mixing unverified components: hose and fittings should be confirmed as a suitable assembly.

How Buyers Can Specify the Right 4SH Hose

Before requesting a quotation, prepare a short specification covering the EN 856 4SH requirement, nominal bore or flow rate, maximum working pressure, and any known pressure peaks. Include fluid type, operating temperature, hose length, end connections, bend or routing constraints, and expected duty cycle. If you are replacing an existing hose, provide readable photos of the hose markings and fittings, but verify dimensions rather than relying on photos alone. This information helps a supplier assess both pressure suitability and practical fit.

What to confirm with a supplier

Ask for the product-specific working-pressure rating and applicable burst specification for the exact size, along with temperature and compatibility guidance. Confirm the recommended fittings and whether the quoted item is hose-only or a finished assembly. For purchasing planning, also request available sizes, minimum order quantity, production or shipping lead time, and any inspection or documentation options relevant to your order. These details should be confirmed in the quotation because availability and terms can vary by product and destination.

Summary and Next Steps

To match 4SH hose size to working and burst pressure, first choose a bore that meets the circuit’s flow needs, then verify that the exact hose size’s working-pressure rating covers the highest expected system pressure. Treat burst pressure only as a safety-related failure limit; at a 4:1 relationship, a 420 bar working rating corresponds to 1,680 bar burst, not 1,680 bar operating capacity. Finally, confirm temperature, fluid, pressure cycling, routing, and compatible fittings against product-specific supplier information.

XINCHI supports B2B buyers sourcing rubber products by reviewing application details and helping identify the information needed to specify EN 856 4SH hose. Send your required size, working pressure, flow or equipment details, fluid, temperature, and fitting requirements for a product-specific discussion. Confirm the final hose and assembly ratings against the applicable datasheet before purchase and installation.

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