PVC Layflat Hose (PVC flat hose) is widely used in agricultural irrigation, industrial drainage, and construction sites due to its portability and practicality. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to its features, specifications, applications, and the latest price references from Chinese factories.
Additionally, it compares the price differences between low-quality and high-quality products to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
PVC Layflat Hose (Polyvinyl Chloride flat hose) is a flexible water delivery hose that can be rolled up for storage and flattened when in use. When filled with water, it expands into a cylindrical shape, and when empty, it can be flattened and rolled, significantly saving storage and transportation space. This design makes it ideal for temporary water transfer applications, especially for situations requiring frequent movement or seasonal use.
Lightweight and Portable: Lightweight when empty, allowing easy handling over long distances
Space-Saving: Flat design reduces storage volume to about 1/5 of traditional rigid pipes
Quick Installation: No complex tools needed—simply unroll and connect
Weather-Resistant: High-quality products resist UV rays, mold, and general chemicals
Cost-Effective: More affordable than rigid pipe systems of the same specifications
Understanding the specifications of PVC Layflat Hose is crucial for proper selection. Below are common market specifications:
Nominal Diameter (mm) | Inner Diameter Range (mm) | Outer Diameter Range (mm) | Suitable Flow Rate (m³/h) |
---|---|---|---|
25 | 23-25 | 28-30 | 1.5-2.5 |
32 | 30-32 | 35-38 | 3.0-4.5 |
50 | 48-50 | 54-57 | 7.0-10.0 |
65 | 63-65 | 70-73 | 12.0-16.0 |
75 | 73-75 | 80-83 | 16.0-22.0 |
100 | 97-100 | 105-110 | 30.0-40.0 |
125 | 122-125 | 132-137 | 45.0-60.0 |
150 | 147-150 | 158-163 | 65.0-85.0 |
Low Pressure: 2-3 bar (~30-45 psi) – Suitable for short-distance, low-gradient irrigation
Medium Pressure: 4-5 bar (~60-75 psi) – General-purpose, suitable for most agricultural applications
High Pressure: 6-8 bar (~90-120 psi) – Used for long-distance transfer or high-lift pumping
Single Layer: Economical, suitable for light-duty, short-term use
Double Layer: Enhanced abrasion and pressure resistance, mid-range pricing
Reinforced Type: Embedded polyester or synthetic fiber mesh for high burst pressure
Special Coatings: UV-resistant, antimicrobial, or chemical-resistant treatments
Common lengths include 50m, 100m, 150m, and 200m. Custom lengths are available but may incur additional costs.
This versatile hose has a wide range of applications across industries:
Portable sprinkler systems
Temporary ditch replacement
Farmland drainage
Orchard micro-irrigation mainlines
Foundation pit drainage
Concrete curing water supply
Emergency fire water transfer
Cooling water circulation for construction equipment
Temporary factory water supply
Equipment cleaning lines
Emergency drainage systems
Mine dewatering
Flood control and drainage
Park irrigation
Temporary potable water transfer (requires food-grade certification)
Event site water supply
Aquaculture water exchange
Equestrian field irrigation
Car wash water supply
Emergency disaster relief water delivery
Below are FOB reference prices from major production regions in China (e.g., Shandong, Zhejiang, Guangdong), based on orders of 1,000 meters or more per month:
Diameter (mm) | Working Pressure | Unit Price ($/m) | 100m Price ($) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
25 | 3 bar | 0.45-0.60 | 45-60 | Budget agricultural use |
32 | 3 bar | 0.65-0.85 | 65-85 | Most common household size |
50 | 3 bar | 1.10-1.40 | 110-140 | Small farms |
65 | 4 bar | 1.80-2.20 | 180-220 | Medium irrigation systems |
75 | 4 bar | 2.50-3.00 | 250-300 | Commercial agriculture |
100 | 5 bar | 3.80-4.50 | 380-450 | Large farms/construction sites |
125 | 5 bar | 5.50-6.50 | 550-650 | Industrial applications |
150 | 6 bar | 7.80-9.20 | 780-920 | High-flow requirements |
Diameter (mm) | Working Pressure | Unit Price ($/m) | 100m Price ($) | Advantages |
---|---|---|---|---|
50 | 5 bar | 1.80-2.20 | 180-220 | 40% better abrasion resistance |
65 | 6 bar | 2.80-3.40 | 280-340 | 2-3x longer lifespan |
75 | 6 bar | 3.60-4.20 | 360-420 | Suitable for rough terrain |
100 | 7 bar | 5.20-6.00 | 520-600 | Heavy-duty industrial use |
UV-Resistant Treatment: +15-20% base price
Food-Grade Certification: +25-35% base price
Freeze-Resistant Formula: +20-30% base price (withstands -20°C)
Flame-Retardant Version: +40-50% base price (for mines/special environments)
Custom Colors/Logos: +5-10% base price (minimum order quantities apply)
Note: Prices are FOB reference rates from major Chinese ports, excluding international shipping, tariffs, and local delivery. Actual prices fluctuate based on PVC resin market trends, order quantity, payment terms, and seasonal factors. Bulk orders (5,000m+) typically qualify for an additional 8-15% discount.
Market quality varies significantly, leading to wide price differences. Below is a comparison of similar specifications:
Low-Quality Products:
Use recycled materials or excessive fillers (calcium carbonate content may exceed 40%)
High plasticizer content, leading to hardening over time
Uneven thickness with weak spots
Price range: 30-50% cheaper than high-quality products
High-Quality Products:
Virgin PVC materials with safe filler ratios
Added anti-aging agents and stabilizers
Wall thickness tolerance within ±5%
Price range: Market benchmark
Low-Quality Products:
Simple single-layer design, no reinforcement
Weak seams prone to splitting
Burst pressure close to rated working pressure
Price advantage: 40-60% cheaper than reinforced types
High-Quality Products:
Double or multi-layer composite structure
Embedded polyester mesh reinforcement
Burst pressure 2-3x working pressure
Price premium: 20-35%
Example: 75mm diameter, 100m medium-pressure hose
Parameter | Low-Quality Product | High-Quality Product | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Initial Price ($) | 180-220 | 280-340 | FOB price |
Lifespan | 6-12 months | 3-5 years | Under normal use |
Annualized Cost ($) | 180-220 | 56-113 | Based on lifespan |
Repair Frequency | High (leaks/bursts) | Very low | Impacts workflow |
Max Working Pressure | 80% of rating | 10-15% above rating | Safety margin |
UV Resistance | Degrades in 3-6 months | Lasts 2+ years | Affects outdoor use |
In the long run, high-quality products, despite higher upfront costs, offer lower annual expenses and minimize downtime due to failures.
Watch for these red flags:
Unusually low prices: 30%+ below market average
Strong chemical odor: Poor-quality PVC emits harsh smells
Poor elasticity: Leaves white creases when folded
Surface defects: Visible bubbles, impurities, or uneven coloring
Missing labels: Lacks specifications, pressure ratings, or manufacturing dates
No test reports: Reputable suppliers provide third-party quality certifications
Understanding pricing drivers helps in negotiations:
PVC resin (SG-5 or SG-3) market fluctuations
Plasticizer (DOP, DINP, etc.) price changes
Additive (stabilizers, UV inhibitors) quality differences
Extrusion method (standard vs. precision-controlled)
Reinforcement mesh density (threads per inch)
Cooling and shaping techniques affecting consistency
Diameter increases raise material usage exponentially
Each 1bar pressure rating increase adds ~8-12% cost
Special features incur additional expenses
<500m: Retail pricing
500-2,000m: Small-order discount (5-8%)
2,000-5,000m: Medium-order discount (8-12%)
5,000m+: Bulk discount (12-20%)
Peak agricultural season (spring) sees 5-10% price hikes
PVC raw material shortages may increase finished product costs
Energy price fluctuations impact production expenses
Identify primary use and working environment
Calculate required flow rate and pressure accurately
Consider storage conditions and mobility needs
Prioritize ISO9001-certified manufacturers
Request samples for testing
Verify production capacity and lead times
Review after-sales policies (quality issue resolution)
Buy during off-season (winter prices are usually lower)
Group purchasing (combine orders for volume discounts)
Consider regional brands (lower shipping costs)
Long-term contracts for locked-in rates
Avoid dragging over sharp objects
Store rolled up when empty; avoid long-term folding
Regularly inspect fittings and hose wear
Drain in winter to prevent freezing; store away from direct sunlight
Industry analysis suggests the following developments:
Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Products: Lead-free stabilizers and recyclable materials will command 15-25% premiums.
Smart Upgrades: Hoses with integrated flow/pressure sensors may cost 2-3x traditional versions.
Raw Material Volatility: PVC price fluctuations may keep prices within ±10% of current levels for 2 years.
Regional Production Shifts: Southeast Asian manufacturing may increase competition, but China retains quality/tech advantages.
Customization Value-Add: Special formulations or expedited delivery will become premium services.
Choosing the right PVC Layflat Hose requires balancing price and quality. With the detailed price references and comparisons provided, you can make cost-effective decisions. Remember: The cheapest option often isn’t the most economical—consider total ownership costs (including lifespan, maintenance, and downtime) for real savings.
For best results, consult reputable manufacturers directly, request tailored quotes, and test samples before large purchases. This ensures optimal value and performance for your specific needs.