Polyurethane tubing offers rubber-like flexibility with the durability of plastic

Citation

(2008), "Polyurethane tubing offers rubber-like flexibility with the durability of plastic", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 37 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2008.12937cad.002

Polyurethane tubing offers rubber-like flexibility with the durability of plastic

Article Type: New materials and equipment From: Pigment & Resin Technology. Volume 37, Issue 3.

Now available from tubing manufacturer NewAge Industries is polyurethane tubing that combines the best properties of plastic and rubber (Figure 1). Called Superthane, it withstands wear, abrasion, weathering, chemicals, fuels, and moisture while it remains flexible. Superthane may be used for a wide variety of gas and fluid transfer uses.

Figure 1 Polyurethane tubing from NewAge Industries

NewAge Industries' polyurethane tubing is a durable product designed to withstand the rigors of applications involving pneumatics, petroleum-based chemicals and liquids, granular material and slurry transfer, and protective jacketing, as well as clean fluids and gases. Superthane offers abrasion and tear resistance, high-tensile strength, and low-compression set. It also handles pressure and vacuum applications better than corresponding sizes of PVC or rubber. The tubing exhibits good chemical resistance and excellent weathering characteristics, setting it apart from many other plastics. Superthane is naturally flexible and needs no plasticizers, which can leach out and cause tube hardening and flow contamination.

Two formulations ether and ester are manufactured by NewAge to offer customers a choice. Both styles contain non-toxic ingredients that conform to FDA standards. Ether-based Superthane tubing is recommended for applications involving water, humid conditions, and fungi. It also resists UV well, and the material is listed by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF 61). The ester-based version offers a slightly higher tensile strength and operating temperature, and in most cases, costs a bit less.

Superthane is available from stock in sizes from 1/16 through 2in. ID. A large inventory is maintained in order to ship products the same day that they are ordered. Of course, just in time, shipments may be arranged as well.

In addition to clear Superthane, NewAge Industries stocks the tubing in nine colors for easy multiple line identification. A braid-reinforced style, Urebrade, is also stocked for higher pressure applications. Customization of Superthane includes special colors, cut- to-length pieces, thermal tube bonding, heat-formed shapes, larger sizes, and hose assemblies.