In fluid handling, what does STAMPED mean and why is it important?

In fluid handling, STAMPED is a commonly used acronym to guide the proper selection of hoses, fittings, valves, and other components for a given application. Each letter stands for a critical specification that must be considered to ensure safety, performance, and compatibility:

STAMPED = Size, Temperature, Application, Media, Pressure, Ends, Delivery

Here’s what each component means:

S – Size

  • Refers to the inner diameter, outer diameter, and length of the hose or piping.

  • Ensuring the correct size is vital for proper flow rate and system efficiency.

T – Temperature

  • Includes the temperature of the media (fluid or gas) and the ambient temperature.

  • Materials must be rated for both to avoid degradation, deformation, or failure.

A – Application

  • How and where the component will be used:

    • Is it for suction, discharge, or transfer?

    • Will it be used in a mobile or stationary setup?

    • Will there be movement, abrasion, or exposure to elements?

  • Application context influences material, construction, and safety features.

M – Media (Material Being Conveyed)

  • Identifies the specific fluid, gas, or chemical being handled.

  • Certain materials (like acids or petroleum products) require compatible hose linings, seals, and body materials to prevent corrosion, swelling, or failure.

P – Pressure

  • Maximum working pressure, burst pressure, and any pressure spikes must be accounted for.

  • Underrated components can rupture under load, posing safety hazards.

E – Ends (End Connections)

  • Specifies the type of fittings (e.g., NPT, flanged, camlock, quick-connect) and how they’re attached (e.g., crimped, banded, threaded).

  • Correct end connections ensure leak-free, secure integration into the system.

D – Delivery (Special Requirements)

  • Includes any additional needs such as:

    • Compliance (FDA, NSF, ISO)

    • Certifications (UL, CSA)

    • Custom packaging or traceability

    • Delivery timelines or testing requirements

Why STAMPED Is Important

  1. Safety: Prevents hose or equipment failure by ensuring components match operating conditions.

  2. Performance: Maximizes efficiency and reliability of the fluid handling system.

  3. Compliance: Ensures regulatory and industry-standard requirements are met.

  4. Cost-effectiveness: Helps avoid over-specification (paying for more than needed) and under-specification (leading to premature failure).

  5. Standardization: Provides a consistent method for sales, engineering, and maintenance teams to specify products.

Using STAMPED as a checklist ensures the right product is selected the first time—reducing downtime, increasing safety, and improving system performance. Many distributors and OEMs use this framework during customer consultations and system design.

 

Back to blog