Flexible Sprinkler Hose: Braided vs Unbraided
A flexible sprinkler hose connects a sprinkler head to the branch piping with a flexible run rather than rigid pipe fittings, letting the sprinkler head be positioned precisely relative to the ceiling grid regardless of where the branch line actually runs above it. Jaideo Automation supplies both braided and unbraided flexible sprinkler hose from NewAge, including the Unbraided Flexible Sprinkler Hose.
Why Flexible Drops Are Used
- Off-grid sprinkler positioning — the sprinkler head can be centered in a ceiling tile even when the branch pipe above doesn’t align with it
- Faster installation than rigid pipe fittings and elbows for the final connection
- Accommodates minor building movement without stressing rigid pipe joints
Unbraided Flexible Sprinkler Hose
Available in 1/2″ (K-factor 5.6/80) and 3/4″ (K-factor 8.0/115) outlets, assembly lengths from 700mm to 1800mm, rated 175-200 PSI depending on model, with UL, FM, or IS certified variants available. Minimum bend radius of 4-5 inches, supporting 1-3 bends of 90 degrees per assembly.
Braided Flexible Sprinkler Hose
Adds a braided outer layer over the same core flexible construction, for extra burst protection where that additional safety margin is specified or preferred.
Choosing Between Them
Both connect the same way and serve the same off-grid positioning purpose — the choice mainly comes down to whether the project specification calls for the added burst protection of the braided outer layer, or whether the unbraided variant’s standard rating is sufficient for the application.
Where This Fits
See our Quick Response vs Standard Response Sprinklers guide for the sprinkler head side of this connection, and our Concealed Sprinkler buying guide if the heads are ceiling-concealed. Head types that connect to a flexible drop include the Pendent Type Sprinkler (Quick Response), Concealed Type Sprinkler (Quick Response) and Sidewall Type Sprinkler (Quick Response), with standard response equivalents such as the Pendent Type Sprinkler (Standard Response).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flexible sprinkler hose used for?
A flexible sprinkler hose connects a sprinkler head to branch piping with a flexible run, allowing the head to be positioned precisely in the ceiling grid regardless of where the branch pipe runs above it.
What is the difference between braided and unbraided flexible sprinkler hose?
Braided flexible sprinkler hose adds a braided outer layer over the same core construction as unbraided hose, providing extra burst protection.
What sizes does flexible sprinkler hose come in?
NewAge flexible sprinkler hose is available in 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch outlets, with assembly lengths ranging from 700mm to 1800mm.