Introduction
If you're in the market for tubing that can withstand a range of extreme temperatures, is flexible, and resists compression set, silicone tubing is an excellent option. While the material is popular in the medical and food industries, it's also used in a range of other applications. This article examines the durability of silicone tubing, its strengths, limitations, and best uses.
What is Silicone Tubing Made of?
Silicone tubing is made of a synthetic rubber polymer, which is created by mixing silicon with hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. Additional compounds may be added to enhance the tubing's elasticity, durability, light stability, and heat resistance.
What Makes Silicone Tubing Durable?
Silicone tubing is highly durable due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures without breaking down, cracking, or becoming brittle. It can withstand temperatures between -60°C to 260°C and is able to maintain its flexibility and compressive strength even when exposed to these conditions. This level of durability makes silicone tubing a common choice in industrial heating systems and in appliances like ovens and refrigerators.
Silicone Tubing vs. Other Materials
When comparing silicone tubing to other materials, it's important to note that each has its own unique set of strengths and limitations. For instance, rubber tubing is better suited for applications where oil resistance is paramount, while thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) tubing is better for high-pressure applications. However, when it comes to durability and resistance to extreme temperatures, silicone tubing outperforms most other materials.
How Does Silicone Tubing Resist Compression Set?
One of the key benefits of silicone tubing is its ability to resist compression set, which occurs when an object that is compressed repeatedly fails to return to its original shape and size. Silicone tubing is resistant to compression set due to its molecular structure, which is highly crosslinked. This means that the molecules in the tubing's structure are linked together, preventing them from being easily displaced.
Limitations of Silicone Tubing
While silicone tubing is highly durable, it does have its limitations. For instance, it's not recommended for use in applications where it will be exposed to hydrocarbons or other solvents that can attack the tubing's molecular structure. Additionally, silicone tubing is not recommended for applications where it will be exposed to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Best Uses for Silicone Tubing
Silicone tubing is commonly used in medical and food-related applications because it is non-toxic and odorless. Additionally, it's used in industries where it's important to maintain a sterile environment, such as in the pharmaceutical industry. It's also commonly used in industrial manufacturing processes as well as in heating and cooling systems.
Measuring the Durability of Silicone Tubing
To measure the durability of silicone tubing, manufacturers use a range of testing methods, including tensile strength testing, compression set testing, and elongation set testing. These tests determine how much stress the tubing can handle before breaking, how well it resists compression set, and how much it can stretch before failing.
Caring for Silicone Tubing
To maintain the durability of silicone tubing, it's important to follow certain care guidelines. For instance, it's recommended that silicone tubing be kept away from solvents and oils and that it be cleaned with mild soapy water. Moreover, to avoid damage, silicone tubing should be stored properly in a cool, dry place, and never be left in direct sunlight or near sources of heat.
Conclusion
Silicone tubing is a versatile and highly durable tubing option that can withstand extreme temperatures and resist compression set. While it does have its limitations, it's an excellent choice for applications in the medical and food industries and in industrial manufacturing processes. Moreover, with proper care, silicone tubing can last for many years.