What Procurement Should Ask LNG Gas Hose Suppliers to ensure Reliability and Reduce Risk
In Coal Seam Gas (CSG) operations, hoses and fluid transfer assemblies are critical components. Failures can lead to unplanned downtime, safety risks, and significant operational costs. Yet, many procurement teams focus primarily on price or lead time, overlooking the technical nuances that actually determine reliability.
The reality is that most CSG hose failures are materials-driven, not pressure-driven. Understanding this distinction is key to making informed procurement decisions.
Material Compatibility Matters Most
Pressure ratings are important, but modern hoses are engineered to handle operational pressures safely. The real risks come from material incompatibility with gases and chemicals:
- Chemical Permeation: Natural gas streams may contain H₂S, CO₂, and multiple other condensates, all of which can degrade elastomers over time.
- Environmental Exposure: High temperatures, UV, and abrasive conditions accelerate wear.
- Corrosive elements in proximity: Chemicals or residual particles (airborne or liquid) that react with the hose materials.
- Construction Issues: Using general-purpose hoses instead of CSG-specific assemblies can result in delamination or reinforcement failure.
- Incompatible materials: applying hoses to equipment which may engender electrolysis or other reactionary processes.
Procurement question:
“Is this hose material compatible with our gas composition and operating conditions?”
Compliance and Testing Are Non-Negotiable
A hose that looks fine on paper is not always fit for field conditions. Independent testing and certification are essential to validate performance:
- Ask for independent test results: Third-party validation is far more credible than supplier claims.
- Request compliance documentation: NATA or equivalent certifications ensure traceability and regulatory compliance.
- Understand standards alignment: Ensure the hose meets all relevant CSG regulations and industry standards.
Procurement question:
“Can you provide documented testing and certifications for these assemblies?”
Lifecycle and Reliability Considerations
Hoses may be pressure-rated, but lifecycle performance depends on material, design, and operating conditions:
- Expected service life: Suppliers should provide realistic, tested estimates.
- Failure modes: Understanding historical failures helps anticipate risks.
- Preventive maintenance: Clear guidance reduces downtime and unexpected replacements.
Procurement question:
“What is the expected service life under our operating conditions, and what maintenance is recommended?”
Traceability and Documentation
In high-risk environments like CSG operations, traceability is essential:
- Batch traceability: Enables fast investigation in case of incidents.
- Full assembly documentation: Reduces internal approval delays and supports audits.
Procurement question:
“Do you provide full traceability and assembly documentation for all hoses?”
Supplier Support and Risk Mitigation
A high-quality supplier does more than deliver products—they help reduce operational risk:
- Failure contingency: Understand warranty, replacement, and emergency support.
- Technical guidance: Ensure engineers are available to advise on installation, commissioning, or shutdown support.
- References: Ask for examples of other CSG sites they support.
Procurement question:
“How do you support your hoses in case of failure or urgent requirements on-site?”
Key Takeaways for Procurement Teams
- Focus on material, compliance, and lifecycle—not just pressure ratings.
- Ask for independent testing and documented proof.
- Evaluate supplier support, traceability, and technical expertise.
- Prioritise risk reduction and reliability over upfront cost.
By asking the right questions, procurement teams can reduce downtime, minimise safety risks, and ensure long-term operational efficiency—all while building confidence in their supplier relationships.
When it comes to reducing CSG hose failures, choosing the right supplier makes all the difference.
About Pacific Hoseflex
Pacific Hoseflex provides Australian-made hoses and assemblies engineered for LNG and CSG environments, with fully certified materials, independent testing, and traceable documentation. Our team works closely with procurement and engineering teams to ensure hoses are fit-for-purpose, reliable, and safe, helping you reduce downtime and operational risk.
Ready to secure the right hoses for your operations? Get in touch with Pacific Hoseflex today to discuss your requirements and see how we can support your site with trusted, high-performance solutions.
