How to choose the right material for your compressed air pipe? Materials guide

Considerations

Pneumatic tubes and hoses are responsible for transporting compressed air from a compressor or main tank of a pneumatic system to the tool or equipment.

However, not all hoses have the same properties and the material should be selected based on:

• Maximum working pressure
• The temperature range
• The type of fluid circulating: air, water, oil, chemicals, etc.
• Working conditions: UV rays, abrasion, extreme temperatures, etc.

Classification of materials

Polyurethane . It is characterized by its flexibility, lightness and low permeability, as well as its resistance to abrasion, torsion, chemicals and high temperatures.

Polyamide . It also stands out for its flexibility and lightness, but also for its resistance to chemicals and temperatures.

Polyethylene . This material is popular due to its combination of flexibility, strength and low cost. Unlike the others, it softens at high temperatures and becomes brittle at low temperatures, it cannot withstand high pressures and prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the material.

PVDF . The properties of this hose are excellent: it is extremely resistant to chemicals and UV radiation, can withstand high temperatures, helps maintain the temperature of the fluid transported and is safe for contact with food and pharmaceutical products.

PTFE . Polytetrafluoroethylene hoses, commonly known as Teflon, are an excellent choice considering their properties. It is one of the most chemically inert materials, can withstand a wide range of temperatures, has a low gas permeability, is non-reactive, has a low coefficient of friction, is abrasion resistant, is an excellent electrical insulator and is self-lubricating.

PVC . This is a popular choice due to its flexibility, resistance to abrasion and chemicals, and low cost. This makes it common in DIY applications and some low-demand industrial applications where flexibility and low cost are paramount.

PFA . This material, belonging to the fluoropolymer family, is an excellent alternative for applications requiring high purity, chemical and thermal resistance. Its wear-resistant surface does not propagate the flame.

Silicone . It is a suitable alternative for food and pharmaceutical use since it is odorless, tasteless, non-toxic and transparent. It also has good resistance to extreme temperatures, chemicals and UV radiation.

At Disumtec, we also have a wide variety of accessories to connect pneumatic hoses, such as clamps or flanges .