O.D. Nom. In. |
I.D. Nom. In. |
Min. Bend
Radius In. |
| 1/8" |
.080 |
.39 |
| 5/32" |
.106 |
.47 |
| 3/16" |
.118 |
.59 |
| 1/4" |
.170 |
.98 |
| 5/16" |
.188 |
1.25 |
| 3/8" |
.250 |
1.5 |
| 1/2" |
.375 |
2.5 |
Broad chemical, solvent, and corrosive atmospheric resistance with good dimensional stability makes polyethylene suitable for many general applications.
Polyethylene is the most widely used tubing due to it’s low cost and chemical compatibility.
Polyethylene tubing is derived either from low-density polyehylene (LDP) or linear low-density polythylene(LLDP). The advantage of the LLDP over the LDP is it’s superior environmental stress crack resistance (ESCR). Either type complies with the FDA regulation 21 CFR 177.1520© with regards to food contact applications.
Polyethylene is not as stable when exposed to sunlight as other tubings, but it is chemically inert.
Polyethylene tubing’s flexibility and abrasion resistance make it the ideal choice for pick-and-place and other automation applications.
When selecting polyethylene tubing it is good to keep in mind that not all types are suitable for use with push-to-connect fittings. Only polyethylenes of a 95A durometer rating should be used for push-to-connect fittings. While the harder 95A is not as flexible as softer types of polyethylene, it is still more flexible than most other types of tubing.
Some of the softer polyethylenes such as 90A, 85A, or 70A can use a compression type fitting, but most should only be used with barb fittings.
Compared to other types of tubing, polyethylene is not as strong and thus tends to have a lower pressure rating. The lower strength also results in thicker tubing walls for a given outside diameter. This reduces the flow capacity of the tubing.
Generally polyethylene should be used only in applications that require superior flexing characteristics, such as pick-and-place units.
Various grades of polyethylene are available to meet the specific requirements of FDA, USDA, or NSF. As a naturally rubbery material, polyethylene does not require any plasticizers that could leach out over time.
Features & benefits of polyethylene:
• Extremely flexible - extremely small bend radius is possible
• Kink resistant
• Abrasion resistant
• Low gas permeability
• Resistant to many chemicals
Chemical Information:
Polyethylene is derived from Polyisocyanate and Polyol, and comes in two different classes; ester and ether.
The ether-based polyethylene (polytetra-methylene glycol ether) is the preferred choice for pneumatic applications due to it’s resistance to moisture. Ester-base polyethylene (polyester polycapro-lactone) while less expensive, and stronger, tends to degrade when exposed to moisture.
• Broad range of corrosion resistance and chemical compatibility
• Vermin and fungus proof
• Dimensional Stability
• Low cost
Applications:
• Instrumentation
• Corrosive atmosphere environments
• General low pressure and temperature applications
• Food processing
Specifications:
• Temp. Range: –100°F to 175°F
• Max. Operating Pressure: 500 PSI (75°F)
