About
Penflex is a leading manufacturer of corrugated metal hose and braid products. While flexible metal hose was first produced in Europe in the late 1880s, it was not until years later that it was manufactured in the United States – by Penflex in the early 1900s!
As the very first metal hose manufacturer in America, Penflex has been a pioneer from its beginnings. Today, we strive to carry on that legacy as a global leader in the design and manufacture of flexible metal hose, braid products and expansion joints.
To accomplish our mission, we focus on continuous improvement of our manufacturing processes, incorporating customer feedback in the development of new products, and all the while remain dedicated to providing unparalleled value. Beyond offering high quality flexible metal hose and braid products, we offer customers a range of technical support that’s both in-person and online, competitive pricing, on-time delivery and superior customer service.
Company Founding
Within a few years, Penflex would begin manufacturing flexible interlocked metal hose.
World War II
During World War II, Penflex, responding to high demand, started to produce galvanized steel hose that was widely used for its fire-resistant quality and electrostatic protection. The interlocked hose made of galvanized steel was used at Gulf port terminals to unload oil from oil tankers, and on open hearth furnace at several plants of leading steel manufacturers.
Growth Under New Ownership
Under the direction of a new generation of owners, Penflex Corporation doubles capacity due to a series of manufacturing improvements. 900 Series high pressure hose introduced.
New Factory Headquarters
In order to meet future growth, the Company moves to a new 100,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Gilbertsville, PA.
Product Line Expansion: 14″ Large Bore Hose
Penflex introduces a new, larger heavy-wall hose with OD up to 14.
Process Improvements: Leak Detection
Penflex implements semi-automated leak detector line able to catch leaks as low as 0.0000005 [1×10-5 cc/sec], practically eliminating “leaking hose” issues.
Product Line Expansion: P3
Penflex introduces P3 series corrugated hose. These new products are supplied with a higher coverage braid which is designed to sustain the highest available working pressures and provide maximum protection of integrity to the inner core.
Second Manufacturing Facility Opens
Penflex opens new warehouse and production facility in Asia.
P3 Series Certified to ISO 10380
P3 Hose products are certified to the International ISO 10380 Standard as a Type 1 hose allowing Penflex to introduce these products to a broader customer base on the European continent.
Product Line Expansion: P4
Penflex introduces P4, the newest generation of Penflex Annular Corrugated Metal Hose products which provide high uniformity of corrugations and consistency of the pitch. The full coverage braid of P4 products is designed to sustain high working pressures & provide maximum protection to the inner core.
Product Line Expansion: Expansion Joints
Penflex expands product line to include expansion joints.
Welder Training Program Launches
The company establishes the Welder Training Program onsite at company headquarters to better support customers in the application and use of Penflex products.
Product Line Expansion: End Fittings
Penflex expands product line further to include fittings to better support key customers.
Product Line Expansion: Braided Braid
Penflex acquires 96 carrier braid machine to bring production of 6″ – 12″ braid in-house.
Houston Warehouse Opens
Penflex opens its own warehouse in Houston, TX to better serve customers along the Gulf Coast.