Hose Reel(ing) you in

Hose reels are key components in the loading and offloading process in the onshore and offshore industries. In this week’s blog, we will be exploring what hose reels are and their primary uses. Alongside that, we will be looking into how EWFM’s extensive range of Swivel Joints is key in getting hose reels to work.

What are hose reels and their uses:

Ship hose reels work like a garden hose; they turn and gradually release a long length of hose, which can then be rotated back to retract the hose. However, there is a difference when it comes to the media transferred through hose reels compared to a garden hose. Everyday ship hose reels will be handling substances such as oil, chemicals, and more.

Hose reels are primarily used in the loading and unloading process. In this case, we will focus on an onshore hose reel, although they can also be located on ships. The hose reel onshore will be filled with a selected media that needs to be transported to a large ship out at sea.

A smaller boat will connect to the hose reel via a coupling and then make its way to the larger ship. During this process, the hose reel will gradually rotate, releasing more and more hose. Once the smaller ship reaches a safe distance from the larger one, they will transfer the coupling to the larger ship and connect it.

The loading or unloading process can then begin. Once completed, the coupling will be detached, returned to the smaller ship, and the hose will be taken back to the hose reel.

Reels can come in different shapes and sizes depending on their location. Hose reels are often 10 meters wide or more, which means they require large Swivel Joints to facilitate the rotation of the reel.

How do EWFM’s Swivel Joints work with hose reels?

At the centre of a hose reel is a Swivel Joint. Large Bore Hose Reel Swivel Joints allow the hose reel to rotate and enable the flow of media through the bore. Our Large Bore Swivel Joints are available in sizes ranging from 10″ up to 72″ internal bore, and they can be constructed using materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and duplex steel. As shown in the images below, the swivels can also be marine painted to match colour specifications. We offer pressure testing, third party design and review surveys, NDE testing and much certification/documentation upon request.

If you work in the onshore and offshore sector and deal with large hose reels, please get in contact with our sales team. We have been supplying Swivel Joints specifically designed for hose reels for years, so we know what works best! Our sales team will work closely with you to ensure you get the right fit to keep your processes turning.