Anyone who wants to protect hoses, cables, or other lines from damage in road traffic usually relies on hose bridges. Here you can find out everything about their exact purposes and how they work.
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What Is a Hose Bridge?
A hose bridge is an aid primarily used by fire departments, but also in other areas such as the construction industry or at events, to protect hoses, cables, or other lines from damage caused by vehicles driving over them or people walking over them. They make it possible to keep traffic routes open while allowing lines to be safely crossed.
What Are Hose Bridges Used For?
Hose bridges are mainly used for the following purposes:
- Protection of Lines: To protect hoses (e.g., fire hoses, water hoses, heating hoses), cables (e.g., power cables, data cables), and other lines from damage caused by being driven or walked over
- Maintenance of Traffic Flow: They allow vehicles and pedestrians to cross roads, paths, or construction areas without the need to remove the underlying lines or completely block traffic.
- Safety: They prevent tripping hazards caused by loose hoses or cables, thereby contributing to accident prevention.
- Prevention of Pressure Fluctuations: For fluid-carrying hoses, protection against crushing ensures a constant flow and prevents pressure fluctuations.
How Does a Hose Bridge Work?
The function of a hose bridge is simple but effective:
Construction
Hose bridges are usually made of robust materials such as rubber, plastic, or metal. They are constructed to form a ramp that vehicles can drive over or people can walk on, while the hoses or cables lie in channels within the hose bridge.
Channels
The bridges have one or more channels into which the lines are laid. These channels are dimensioned to accommodate common hose and cable diameters and to securely fix the lines.
Stability and Slip Resistance
Many hose bridges are equipped with an anti-slip surface to ensure safety when driving or walking over them. Their dead weight and/or special fastening options ensure stability and prevent slipping.
Load Capacity
Hose bridges are designed for high loads and, depending on the model, can withstand vehicle weights of several tons to allow even heavy vehicles to pass.
Why Are Hose Bridges Needed in Connection with Mobile Heaters?
In connection with mobile heaters, hose bridges are essential because mobile heating systems are often used temporarily in various locations, and heating hoses must be laid across traffic routes or highly frequented areas. This is the case, for example, in:
Construction Sites
Here, mobile heaters are used to heat shell constructions or to dry screed. The heating hoses often have to be routed across access roads or work areas.
Events
At large outdoor events, in tents, or temporary structures, mobile heaters are used for climate control. The hoses for heat distribution often have to be laid across visitor paths or supply roads.
Emergency and Temporary Solutions
Mobile heaters are used when a permanently installed heating system fails or when there is a temporary need for heat. The hose lines must then often be routed across public or private paths to transport the heat to the required locations.
In all these scenarios, hose bridges ensure that the heating hoses are not damaged, that operations are not disrupted, and that safety for people and vehicles is guaranteed.
What Different Hose Bridges and Sizes Are Available?
In addition to ground-based hose bridges, there are also cable bridges that are used to lay hoses and cables across road sections. Ground-based hose bridges are available in various designs and sizes—depending on the area of application:
• Material: Commonly used materials are rubber, PVC, or polyurethane for lighter versions, and aluminum or steel for particularly robust models.
• Number of Channels: There are hose bridges with one, two, three, or even five channels to accommodate different numbers of hoses or cables simultaneously. The channel widths vary.
• Load Capacity: There are models for pedestrians and light vehicles, as well as heavy-duty hose bridges that can withstand vehicle weights of 30 tons or more.
• Dimensions: The dimensions vary greatly. Common lengths are between 800 mm and over 1000 mm, widths between 200 mm and 400 mm, and heights between 50 mm and 150 mm.
• Connection Systems: Many hose bridges have interlocking connection systems to connect multiple bridges and thus create longer protected routes.
• Special Designs: There are also special designs, e.g., with integrated reflectors for better visibility in the dark, or models that are particularly adaptable to uneven ground.
Open Channels in Hose Bridges
Some models, especially those for temporary or less frequented areas, may have open channels. They then primarily serve to prevent tripping hazards from loose hoses or cables.
This means that the hoses or cables are not completely enclosed but are laid from above into the designated grooves. With such models, it is particularly important to pay attention to the following aspects:
• Secure Fit of the Lines: The hoses or cables must lie firmly in the channels to prevent them from slipping out or shifting, especially when vehicles drive over them.
• Protection from Contamination: Open channels can be more susceptible to the ingress of dirt or water, which could damage the lines or impair their function. Regular inspection may be necessary.
• Adaptation to the Environment: In areas with high traffic volumes or when using very sensitive lines, those with closed channels or covers should be preferred to ensure maximum protection.
• Visibility: Even with open channels, it is important that the bridge is clearly visible to prevent accidents. This can be achieved through conspicuous colors or additional markings.
References:
Tomrano. (seen on 09/10/2025). Kabelbrücken / Schlauchbrücken.
Hawego. (seen on 09/10/2025). Schlauchbrücken.
DENIOS. (seen 09/10/2025). Schlauchbrücken und Kabelbrücken.