The Difference Between 1SN, 2SN, 2SC, 4SP and 4SH Hose
The 1SN, 2SN, 2SC and 4SP markings printed on a hose describe its reinforcement. We explain how many wire layers each has, what pressure it holds and where each one is used, with tables.
5 min read · 10-row dimension table · 5 frequently asked questions
What these letters mean
Codes such as 1SN, 2SN, 2SC, 4SP and 4SH printed along a hose define its reinforcement. They read as follows:
- The leading number gives the number of reinforcement layers (one, two or four).
- S denotes steel wire reinforcement.
- N denotes normal (standard) outside diameter. C denotes compact, meaning a thinner wall.
- P denotes spiral winding. H denotes heavy duty spiral.
Braid or spiral?
There are two reinforcement methods, and the choice defines the character of the hose:
Braid — the wires are woven over and under one another. 1SN and 2SN belong to this group. Braided hose is more flexible, bends more easily and works at medium pressures.
Spiral — the wires are wound helically, layer over layer. 4SP and 4SH belong to this group. Spiral hose withstands far higher pressures and, in particular, pressure spikes, but it is stiffer and needs a larger bend radius.
The practical rule: use spiral hose on any line subject to continuous pressure impulses (breakers, presses, impulse-driven cycles). Braided hose fatigues early under those conditions.
Standard equivalents
- DIN EN 853 1SN ≈ SAE 100 R1AT — single wire braid
- DIN EN 853 2SN ≈ SAE 100 R2AT — double wire braid
- DIN EN 857 1SC / 2SC — thin-walled, for confined spaces; 2SC reaches the same pressure as 2SN in a smaller outside diameter and with a tighter bend radius
- DIN EN 856 4SP ≈ SAE 100 R12 — four-layer spiral
- DIN EN 856 4SH — four-layer heavy duty spiral, the highest pressure class
Working pressure table
The figures below are standard working pressures. Burst pressure is four times these values (4:1 safety factor).
Which one to choose
- 1SN — return lines, low-pressure auxiliary lines, below 200 bar.
- 2SN — the most widely used class. General-purpose pressure lines, construction plant, agricultural machinery.
- 2SC — same pressure as 2SN but for confined spaces and tight bends. Cab interiors, compact machines.
- 4SP — high pressure with impulse cycling. Breakers, presses, heavy plant.
- 4SH — the most severe conditions; where high pressure is needed at large diameters.
Same hose, different life
Even a hose with the correct pressure class will fail early if it is installed badly. Whatever the reinforcement class, the bend radius must be respected, the hose must not be fitted with a twist in it, and the bend must not start at the ferrule outlet.
Working pressures by reinforcement class (bar)
| Size | DN | 1SN | 2SN | 2SC | 4SP | 4SH |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | DN6 | 225 | 400 | 400 | — | — |
| 5/16" | DN8 | 215 | 350 | 350 | — | — |
| 3/8" | DN10 | 180 | 330 | 330 | 445 | — |
| 1/2" | DN12 | 160 | 275 | 275 | 415 | — |
| 5/8" | DN16 | 130 | 250 | 250 | 350 | — |
| 3/4" | DN19 | 105 | 215 | 215 | 330 | 420 |
| 1" | DN25 | 88 | 165 | 165 | 250 | 380 |
| 1.1/4" | DN31 | 63 | 125 | — | 215 | 325 |
| 1.1/2" | DN38 | 50 | 90 | — | 165 | 290 |
| 2" | DN51 | 40 | 80 | — | — | 250 |
The table scrolls horizontally. Values are for guidance; we recommend confirming the size before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 1SN and 2SN hose?
1SN has a single layer of steel wire braid, 2SN has two. That is why 2SN holds roughly twice the pressure: in 1/2" size 1SN is rated at 160 bar and 2SN at 275 bar. 2SN is also thicker and slightly stiffer.
What is 2SC hose and how does it differ from 2SN?
2SC is the thin-walled compact hose in the DIN EN 857 standard. It holds the same pressure as 2SN but has a smaller outside diameter and allows tighter bends. It is preferred in confined spaces and cab routings.
What is the difference between 4SP and 4SH?
Both have four spiral reinforcement layers, but 4SH is the heavy duty class and holds higher pressure, particularly at larger diameters. At 1" size 4SP is rated at 250 bar and 4SH at 380 bar. 4SH is generally available in 3/4" and above.
Are SAE 100 R2AT and 2SN the same?
In practice they are equivalents. 2SN is the double braid hose in the DIN EN 853 standard; SAE 100 R2AT is its counterpart in the American standard. Pressure ratings and construction largely coincide.
When is spiral hose needed instead of braided hose?
On lines with continuous pressure impulses: breakers, hydraulic presses and plant working on impulse cycles. Braided hose fatigues early under those conditions. Spiral hose is stiffer and needs a larger bend radius.