EN857 1SC vs 2SC: Choosing Compact Hose by Pressure and Space
Choose EN 857 1SC when its documented working-pressure rating meets your system’s maximum pressure and its bend radius fits the installation. Choose EN 857 2SC when the required pressure rating calls for a two-wire-braid construction, provided its outside diameter and bend radius fit the available space. Neither designation alone tells you the exact pressure capacity or dimensions: these vary by hose size and manufacturer, so compare the product data for the specific nominal bore you need.
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At XINCHI, we recommend checking pressure, routing space, fluid compatibility, and operating conditions together rather than selecting by reinforcement count alone. This comparison explains how the two compact hose types differ and what to confirm before specifying or requesting a quote.
Quick comparison: EN 857 1SC and 2SC
Both 1SC and 2SC are compact hydraulic hose types defined under EN 857. The main construction difference is the number of steel-wire braid reinforcement layers: 1SC uses one layer, while 2SC uses two. In comparable sizes, 2SC is generally intended for higher pressure service, but the actual rated pressure must be confirmed against the manufacturer’s data for that size.
| Comparison point | EN 857 1SC | EN 857 2SC |
|---|---|---|
| Reinforcement | One steel-wire braid | Two steel-wire braids |
| Pressure selection | Use where the size-specific rating covers system demands | Consider where a higher size-specific rating is required |
| Space and routing | Check its published outside diameter and minimum bend radius | Check its published outside diameter and minimum bend radius; do not assume these match 1SC |
| Best selection basis | Pressure, size, and installation limits | Pressure, size, and installation limits |
How to choose by pressure
Start with the real pressure requirement
Record the system’s maximum operating pressure, including relevant pressure peaks, rather than using only its normal running pressure. Then compare that requirement with the hose’s stated working-pressure rating for the required bore. The rating should come from the manufacturer’s technical data or product marking, not from the assumption that every 2SC hose has the same capacity.
Pressure is only one part of a safe assembly specification. Confirm the pressure rating of the fittings and assembled hose as well, and follow the equipment maker’s requirements and applicable safety practices. If the system has frequent pressure pulses, unusually severe duty, or uncertain peak pressure, ask a qualified hydraulic specialist to review the specification.
Use the hose size-specific data
Pressure ratings can change with nominal bore, and one hose construction may have different ratings across its size range. For example, an illustrative system operating at 180 bar with possible peaks reaching 220 bar should not be matched to a hose based only on its “1SC” or “2SC” label. The buyer should verify that the exact hose size and complete assembly are rated for the documented pressure conditions.
Do not treat burst pressure as a working-pressure target. Burst values are not permission to operate continuously near that level. For procurement, compare working-pressure ratings and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly, inspection, and service.
How to choose by available space
Measure the route, not just the connection points
A hose may connect correctly at both ends and still be unsuitable if it must bend too tightly or rub against nearby equipment. Measure the route, including the space needed for the hose to leave each fitting without an abrupt bend. Compare those measurements with the product’s published minimum bend radius and outside diameter for the selected size.
As an illustrative installation check, if a routed section has only 80 mm of bending radius available, confirm that the selected hose’s specified minimum bend radius is no greater than the available radius at that location. This is a measurement example, not a universal EN 857 limit. Leave practical clearance for movement and assembly, and assess the full hose path rather than a single point.
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Do not assume 1SC always fits better
Single-braid construction can be an advantage when a hose needs to fit a constrained route, but the construction name does not establish the finished hose’s dimensions. A 1SC product may not fit a route if its size-specific bend radius is too large, while a 2SC product may fit if its published dimensions satisfy the installation limits. Compare actual data sheets rather than choosing from reinforcement count alone.
Application suitability and trade-offs
When 1SC may be the better fit
Consider 1SC for compact equipment, machinery, or routed hydraulic lines when the specified pressure requirement is within its rated working pressure and the product meets the installation constraints. Its single braid makes it a potential option where a two-braid construction is not needed. The deciding evidence is still the size-specific pressure and dimensional information.
When 2SC may be the better fit
Consider 2SC when the required working-pressure rating cannot be met by an available 1SC option in the chosen bore, or when the system specification calls for a two-braid compact hose. Check whether its dimensions and bend radius are workable in the assembly. If space is too restricted, changing the hose size or route may be safer than forcing a hose into a bend tighter than its specified minimum.
What to check beyond pressure and space
Confirm the hose’s compatibility with the hydraulic fluid, temperature range, fittings, and assembly method. These details depend on the product and application; do not assume that all hoses carrying the same EN 857 designation use identical compounds or have identical operating limits. Also confirm the required length, end connections, and any equipment-specific requirements before ordering.
Common selection mistakes
- Choosing by “SC” designation alone: The designation identifies a construction category, not every pressure or dimensional value.
- Comparing different hose sizes: A fair comparison uses the same nominal bore and checks the matching data for each product.
- Ignoring pressure peaks: Normal operating pressure may not represent the most demanding condition.
- Using the minimum bend radius as a target without checking the route: Installation movement, fittings, and nearby surfaces also matter.
- Assuming a higher-pressure option is automatically safer: The full hose assembly must suit the pressure, fluid, temperature, and installation conditions.
Buyer checklist and supplier support
Before requesting a quotation, prepare the hose standard and type, nominal bore, required length, working-pressure requirement, fluid and temperature conditions, fitting details, and available routing dimensions. If pressure peaks or installation constraints are not yet known, identify them as open items instead of treating estimates as final specifications. This helps suppliers compare suitable options and flag missing information early.
At XINCHI, we can review the information you provide and help compare available EN 857 1SC and 2SC options against your pressure and space requirements. For a useful review, send the required size, operating conditions, connection details, and route measurements. Product availability, specifications, and lead time should be confirmed for the requested configuration before an order is placed.
Conclusion: choose by verified rating and measured clearance
Choose 1SC when its documented working-pressure rating covers the application and its actual dimensions fit the route. Choose 2SC when its size-specific pressure rating better meets the requirement and its outside diameter and bend radius remain acceptable. If neither option satisfies both pressure and space constraints, revisit the hose size, routing, or system specification with a qualified engineer rather than compromising on the manufacturer’s limits.
Your next step is to compare data sheets for the same bore, verify pressure and environmental compatibility, and measure the full installation path. Share those details with XINCHI to discuss a suitable compact hose configuration and request a configuration-specific quotation.