Here is everything you need to know about rubber tubing and its use.
You will learn:
Rubber tubing, also known as rubber hose or piping, is made from a combination of natural and synthetic rubber. This versatile material is widely used for transporting and circulating liquids and gases across various domestic and industrial environments. The impressive flexibility, strength, and dependability of rubber tubing make it the preferred choice for applications in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, as well as in sectors like food processing and healthcare.
Available in a wide array of diameters and wall thicknesses, rubber tubing demonstrates substantial versatility, catering to diverse and specialized industrial needs.
Unlike other types of industrial tubing, rubber tubing stands out due to its unique elastomeric properties, providing exceptional strength, durability, flexibility, and an ability to stretch and deform without permanent damage. This balance of flexibility, tear resistance, resilience, thermal stability, and chemical resistance makes rubber tubing an essential component across diverse applications—including medical, laboratory, automotive, food and beverage, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
The manufacturing process of rubber tubing is designed to enhance these properties and cater to specific user requirements. There are two primary production methods: the mandrel process and extruded rubber tubing production. Each technique is selected based on factors such as intended application, internal diameter and wall thickness specifications, pressure and temperature ratings, and the selection of rubber materials (like natural rubber, EPDM, silicone, neoprene, nitrile, or Viton).
In the mandrel process for producing rubber tubing, the rubber compound is supplied in rolls or sheets. The wall thickness of the finished tubing is determined by the thickness of these sheets. While the color of the tubing depends on the color of the rubber roll used, this is typically for identification purposes—for instance, in medical or laboratory tubing, color coding streamlines usage and inventory management. Common color options are black, red, blue, and clear, depending on end-use.
To prepare the rubber for processing, it is passed through a rubber mill where it is heated to achieve a uniform, smooth texture and optimal elasticity. This rubber compounding and mixing step is crucial for achieving consistent physical and mechanical properties throughout the tubing, reducing risks of defects or weak points during use in high-pressure or precision applications.
The softened and pliable rubber is then transferred to a cutting machine, which slices it into strips of uniform width. These strips are sized to match the required inside and outside diameter, length, and overall dimensions according to industry standards (such as ASTM D2000 for rubber products). Specialized cutting ensures tight tolerances for medical rubber tubing and automotive fuel lines where accuracy is critical.
Once cut, the rubber strips are applied onto a mandrel—a rod whose diameter matches the desired tubing's internal diameter. The mandrel is first coated with a lubricant or release agent to facilitate easy removal post-curing. As the mandrel rotates, the rubber strips are evenly wound around it, layer by layer, ensuring a seamless tube wall for optimal performance under pressure and superior flow characteristics.
The wrapping process can be repeated as needed to achieve the precise wall thickness demanded by the application, such as thick-walled industrial hoses or thin-walled lab tubing.
For applications requiring high pressure ratings—such as hydraulic lines or industrial process tubing—a reinforcement layer is applied after the initial wrap. This layer usually consists of braided or spiraled high-strength synthetic materials (like polyester or aramid fiber) or, for heavy-duty applications, steel wire. These reinforcements increase burst strength and kink resistance, crucial for pneumatic, hydraulic, and fuel delivery systems.
The final step in tube construction is the addition of an exterior rubber covering. This outer layer protects the tubing against abrasion, ozone, UV exposure, and harsh operating conditions, thereby extending the product’s service life. Specialty rubber compounds, like EPDM for weather resistance or FDA-compliant silicone for food-grade tubing, can be selected for this layer.
After applying all layers, the tubing is wrapped with wet nylon tape. As the tape dries, it contracts, compressing the tubing layers together and imparting a textured outer finish. This textured surface can be desirable for flexible hoses, grips, or applications requiring secure connections, as it improves handling and coupling efficiency.
The wound rubber tubing, now reinforced and layered, is placed in an autoclave for vulcanization—a chemical process essential for developing the tube’s final elasticity, tensile strength, and temperature resistance. Inside the autoclave, steaming at high pressure causes sulfur cross-linking (curing) of the rubber polymer chains. Modern vulcanization methods offer consistent, high-quality results, ensuring the tubing can withstand demanding industrial, medical, or automotive conditions.
To safely remove the finished rubber tubing from the mandrel without internal damage, one end is sealed and water is injected to release the tube from the mold. This step is critical for maintaining the tube’s roundness and inner surface integrity, especially for sanitary and medical tubing applications that demand smooth, contaminant-free internal walls. The tube is then trimmed to length and checked for dimensional accuracy.
The extrusion process is the most common technique for manufacturing continuous lengths of custom rubber tubing and hoses—ideal for batch production and mass-market requirements. In this process, a soft, unvulcanized rubber compound is continuously pushed through a disc-shaped die, which precisely forms the tube’s internal and external diameters, as well as wall thickness. This method offers tight tolerances and design flexibility, making it a preferred choice for producing food-grade, beverage, medical, laboratory, and industrial rubber tubing.
The extrusion process starts with automatic feeding of the chosen rubber material into the hopper of an industrial extruder. Selection of the appropriate rubber compound (such as silicone for medical and pharmaceutical tubing or nitrile for fuel lines) ensures compatibility with intended chemicals, temperatures, and pressure levels.
Inside the extruder, a rotating screw (or "auger") conveys and compresses the rubber compound, heating and blending it for uniformity. This action not only shapes the compound but also ensures even distribution of any additives—such as colorants, anti-aging agents, or UV stabilizers—used to enhance performance and longevity of the finished tubing.
As the processed rubber compound passes through the die, it is shaped according to exact specifications for diameter, wall thickness, and length. The die design is critical for achieving consistent dimensions and surface finish—attributes that are mission-critical in precision medical tubing, peristaltic pump tubing, and lab analysis hoses. The temperature and pressure are closely monitored to minimize defects and maintain batch-to-batch consistency.
Since extruded tubing is initially soft and uncured, it must be vulcanized post-extrusion. Modern vulcanization methods encompass sulfur curing, salt bath curing, microwave vulcanization, and hot air ovens. This cross-linking process transforms the tubing from a pliable material to a durable, high-performance product, providing essential properties like heat resistance, flexibility, chemical compatibility, and mechanical strength. Thorough curing is crucial for sanitary tubing, medical device tubing, and vacuum hoses, where consistent performance is non-negotiable.
The vulcanization or curing process is illustrated in the diagram below:
The extrusion method is favored for its rapid throughput, scalability, and ability to create custom designs—including multi-lumen tubing, small bore tubing, and tubing for specialized applications with exacting requirements for flexibility, clarity, temperature resistance, and chemical inertness. This versatility makes extruded rubber tubing ideal for OEMs, laboratory supply companies, and manufacturers seeking competitively priced, high-quality solutions for demanding environments.
Choosing a manufacturing process depends on your application: The mandrel process is often reserved for reinforced hoses and complex constructions requiring high strength and multi-layered design, such as hydraulic or specialty process tubing. The extrusion method best serves users needing continuous lengths, flexibility in dimensions, and rapid turnaround times.
If you are evaluating suppliers for your custom rubber tubing or standard industrial tubing needs, consider factors such as material compatibility, tolerances, pressure requirements, FDA compliance, and certifications for your industry. Leading manufacturers offer engineering support, prototyping, and value-added services like custom color matching, printing, and post-processing to ensure the tubing fits your exact operational specifications.
Rubber tubing is widely utilized across industries—ranging from medical and pharmaceutical applications to automotive, laboratory, industrial, and food & beverage processing—because of its ability to meet a diverse array of functional requirements. With such extensive application, rubber tubing is manufactured from a variety of rubber compounds, each engineered for specialized uses, performance characteristics, and regulatory compliance (such as FDA and NSF standards). While there are numerous rubber types available, these materials generally fall into two categories: natural rubber and synthetic rubber compounds.
Different rubber tubing materials provide unique advantages and limitations, depending on their properties and polymer composition. Selecting the optimal type for your application involves evaluating factors such as:
Understanding these material characteristics ensures optimal performance, durability, and safety when choosing rubber tubing for specific industrial, commercial, or laboratory uses.
Fluoroelastomer (FKM) rubber tubing, often branded as Viton™, is purpose-built for demanding, high-temperature environments and offers uncompromising chemical resistance. This specialty rubber hose is widely used in automotive fuel systems, aerospace, and chemical processing applications thanks to its ability to withstand aggressive solvents, fuels, hydraulic fluids, and oils, while operating reliably at temperatures exceeding 200°C. FKM is categorized by fluorine content (typically 66% to 70%); higher fluorine levels increase resistance to a broader range of industrial chemicals and improve performance in harsh operating conditions. Its low permeability and robust thermal stability make it a top choice for critical fluid transfer, sealing, and containment applications.
Butyl rubber tubing is renowned for its low gas permeability, shock absorption, and strong resistance to oxygen and ozone degradation, making it suitable for transferring air, carbon dioxide, and inert gases. Used frequently in HVAC systems, pneumatic lines, and laboratory equipment, butyl tubing features thick walls and operates across a temperature range from -30°F to +275°F. Composed of isobutylene and a small amount of isoprene, butyl rubber offers excellent vibration damping and serves as an insulating material in applications demanding airtight seals and reliable gas retention.
CSM (Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene), commonly known by the DuPont trade name Hypalon, is produced by chemically modifying polyethylene to introduce chlorine and sulfur dioxide. This process results in a flexible, vulcanized, and cross-linked synthetic rubber with superior flame resistance and chemical stability. Hypalon tubing excels in applications requiring performance against corrosive chemicals, concentrated acids, oil, grease, and harsh weathering—such as industrial chemical transfer, marine and outdoor equipment, and roofing membranes. Its temperature range of -34°C to 93°C and exceptional retention of tensile strength make Hypalon a reliable option in long-term, demanding environments.
Additionally, CSM offers impressive resistance to UV radiation and ozone, which ensures durability for outdoor and heavy-duty industrial uses, where environmental exposure and corrosive substances are common.
Natural rubber tubing, derived from the latex of Hevea brasiliensis trees, is praised for its outstanding mechanical properties: high elasticity, impact resistance, tensile strength, flexibility, and exceptional resistance to abrasion and tearing. These qualities make natural rubber the material of choice for dynamic applications—such as surgical tubing, peristaltic pumps, and laboratory transfers—where repeated stretching and resilience are paramount. Despite its versatility, natural rubber is not suitable for oil, petroleum-based fluids, or prolonged outdoor use, as it is vulnerable to UV, ozone, and chemical attack.
Specialized latex rubber tubing also finds a niche in exercise equipment, slingshots, and applications demanding superior elongation and snapback performance. Its biocompatibility supports use in medical and food-grade environments, although users must be mindful of allergy risk in some settings. For outdoor installations, consider alternatives such as EPDM or silicone, which offer better UV stability.
Neoprene rubber tubing is a synthetic elastomer made from the polymerization of chloroprene. It is valued for its balanced characteristics—combining moderate oil and chemical resistance with flexibility, durability, and excellent weather resistance. Neoprene tubing is often selected for environmental containment, automotive engine components, and outdoor power equipment, where resistance to petroleum products, sunlight, ozone, and fluctuating temperatures is crucial. Despite its general versatility, users seeking electrical insulation should choose alternative materials, as neoprene's inherent conductivity limits its effectiveness in high-voltage or precision circuitry environments.
Nitrile rubber (NBR), a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene, excels in applications involving hydrocarbon fuels, oils, lubricants, and hydraulic fluids—such as fuel lines, gaskets, O-rings, and oil-resistant tubing for industrial equipment. Its resistance to swelling, abrasion, and degradation upon exposure to petroleum-based products is superior to many other elastomers. Nitrile tubing retains flexibility and elongation even after repeated contact with oil or fuel, which makes it a preferred material in the automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors, as well as in compressed air lines where oil mist is present. While highly durable, nitrile is not recommended for applications with ozone or strong oxidizing agents.
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) is an economical synthetic rubber alternative to natural rubber, combining the advantages of solvent and water resistance, good abrasion resistance, and consistent performance across a broad range of manufacturing industries. SBR tubing is widely used in automotive hoses, hydraulic lines, gaskets, and conveyor belts due to its cost effectiveness and dependability. Its resilience under mechanical stress and ability to handle moderate chemical exposure make it a versatile choice, especially where budgets are a concern or high quantities are required. However, SBR is less effective in the presence of oils, fuels, and ozone—areas where nitrile or EPDM may be superior.
Silicone rubber tubing stands out for its broad operating temperature range (from extreme cold to high heat), biocompatibility, non-reactivity, and outstanding flexibility, even after sterilization. It is flame resistant, hypoallergenic, and can be specially formulated to meet USP Class VI and FDA standards for medical, pharmaceutical, and food-grade uses. Because silicone tubing has low toxicity, high purity, and excellent dielectric strength, it is popular in cleanroom processing, fluid transfer in laboratories, medical device manufacturing, and beverage dispensing equipment. In addition, silicone's water resistance, elongation, and long service life add value across applications requiring repeated cleaning or sterilization cycles.
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), also known as thermoplastic rubber, merge the elasticity of rubber with the recyclability and processability of plastics. TPE tubing is engineered for applications demanding durability against harsh chemicals, a wide range of industrial acids, and mechanical stress such as repeated bending, flexing, or dynamic motion. Commonly used in robotics, pumping systems, automotive assemblies, and peristaltic pumps, TPE tubing offers excellent flexibility and toughness, delivering long-lasting, kink-resistant performance without permanent deformation. In addition, TPE can be formulated for medical-grade, food-grade, or environmentally friendly (phthalate-free) requirements, appealing to diverse user needs in modern manufacturing and healthcare environments.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) tubing is a sulfur-vulcanizable terpolymer composed of ethylene, propylene, and a diene monomer, well-known for its exceptional resistance to heat, steam, UV, ozone, and harsh weather elements. EPDM tubes and hoses are extensively used in automotive coolant systems, solar heating, water lines, and outdoor installations due to their outstanding performance in temperatures as low as -40°C and up to +150°C. The material’s unique composition allows for wide chemical compatibility—including with acidic and basic solutions—and effective long-term performance in both residential and industrial applications. During manufacturing, additives such as black carbon, calcium carbonate, and plasticizers are incorporated to further enhance EPDM’s elastic properties and improve flexibility, longevity, and resistance to cracking or hardening.
Hytrel® rubber tubing is an advanced, thermoplastic polyester elastomer designed for applications demanding a combination of flexibility, strength, and chemical resistance. Produced through co-extrusion—where a flexible Hytrel® core is combined with an outer PVC layer—this tubing construction provides dual functionality. Hytrel® offers resilience under dynamic load, resistance to many oils, fuels, and hydraulic fluids, and excellent flexural fatigue, making it suitable for demanding environments such as hydraulic lines, fuel systems, and industrial fluid transfer where tubing is exposed to vibration, flexing, or extreme conditions. Its multilayer build extends service life and offers enhanced containment, supporting performance and reliability for critical operations.
When selecting rubber tubing, always match the material's specifications to your application's unique requirements—such as temperature range, regulatory compliance, and environmental exposures—to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation.
The manufacturing of rubber tubing focuses on creating products suited for specific conditions. Although a range of materials can be used, the choice of grade and type is tailored to meet particular requirements, resulting in various specialized tubing types.
In the food industry, ensuring that tools are safe and free from contaminants is crucial. Tubing used in this sector must adhere to stringent guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which outlines the acceptable materials for food contact applications. Like other industrial applications, food handling equipment must be capable of withstanding high pressures, temperatures, and exposure to acids and chemicals used in food processing.
Similar to food-grade rubber tubing, medical-grade rubber tubing is subject to rigorous standards concerning its design and construction. These standards ensure the tubing's ability to resist contaminants, withstand chemical degradation, endure thermal damage, and maintain biocompatibility. The primary goal of these regulations is to ensure patient safety.
Silicone is the most commonly used type of medical rubber tubing due to its compliance with FDA regulations outlined in 21CFR177.2600. Medical rubber tubing comes in various grades, hardness levels, and sizes to suit different medical applications.
Conductive rubber tubing is employed to manage static electricity in applications involving electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) shielding. This type of tubing, made from natural or silicone rubber, achieves its conductive properties through the inclusion of carbon or other conductive particles during the manufacturing process.
Static electricity can attract dust, which poses a risk of sparks. By minimizing friction, conductive rubber tubing helps mitigate this risk. While it does not conduct electricity itself, it is designed to transport gases and liquids near electrically sensitive equipment without generating static.
Microbore tubing is specifically crafted for medical applications and features extremely small diameters. To ensure safety and effectiveness in patient care, it must comply with FDA standards for sterility and material quality. This tubing is used for intravenous lines and insertion into veins and arteries, offering robust wall construction to facilitate the smooth flow of liquids like blood or medications. It is designed to be ultra-smooth, inert, and sterile, meeting USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements for medical use.
Air tubing is utilized to channel pressurized air to actuators, valves, and various tools. It can be produced using extrusion or mandrel techniques. The tubing features an inner layer reinforced with fibers or a protective coating. The outer diameter (OD) of the air rubber tubing determines its pressure tolerance; smaller ODs may restrict airflow.
Chemical rubber tubing is engineered for transporting hydraulic fluids, acids, and hazardous substances. It is co-extruded to include both an inner and an outer layer. The primary attributes of chemical tubing are its flexibility, resistance to absorption, and smooth internal surface.
Heat shrink tubing is employed for insulating, protecting, and repairing wires to enhance their lifespan. The rubbers used are resistant to abrasion, chemicals, oil, and acids, and can withstand temperatures ranging from -90°F to 390°F. It has a dielectric strength of 500 to 800 V/mil, indicating its capability to endure electrical, thermal, or signal disruptions without degradation.
Fabric, cloth, or textile reinforced tubing consists of three main components: the reinforcing material, the tube, and the cover. The tube is made from synthetic rubber, often NBR, which resists abrasion, corrosion, and oils. The reinforcing material comprises multiple synthetic layers, providing a strong and sturdy structure. A second layer of synthetic rubber, with properties similar to the first, covers the fabric. This construction ensures the tubing is highly durable and resilient.
Non-reinforced rubber tubing is suitable for low-pressure uses, such as in pneumatic machinery and the food industry. It is highly flexible, lightweight, and durable, and can be used as lay-flat tubing. This type of tubing can be customized to various sizes with different IDs and ODs and is available in multiple colors. The smooth, consistent inner surface enhances flow and minimizes buildup.
To enhance strength and stability, non-reinforced rubber tubing may be reinforced with one or more layers of cloth, such as polyester, nylon, or cotton. This additional reinforcement makes the tubing suitable for applications involving oils, caustic substances, and hydrocarbons.
The versatility and resilience of rubber tubing have established it as a crucial element across various industries. Known for its durability and reliability, rubber tubing is well-suited for applications in domestic settings, such as transferring water and chemicals, as well as in industrial environments where it handles hydraulic fluids and chemical processes.
In the automotive sector, rubber tubing is commonly known as hoses and is used for various purposes, including fuel lines, radiator hoses, lubricant supply, and cooling systems. The efficient functioning of vehicles relies on the rubber tubing remaining in optimal condition. Given its longevity and proven reliability, rubber tubing is the preferred choice for fluid transfer in automobiles.
There are several varieties of rubber tubing used in agriculture. It is used to transfer grain, collect debris, and provide ventilation. Each application requires a specially designed tubing. Flexible tubing is used to move abrasive materials such as animal feed, grain, and manure. A major use for agricultural tubing is for ventilation to ensure proper airflow for livestock. Agriculture rubber tubing is required to be chemical resistant due to the wide variety of chemicals used for food production and feeding.
In the aerospace sector, rubber tubing must endure extreme weather, significant pressure variations, and substantial temperature fluctuations. Flexible hoses are crucial in aircraft to connect moving components with stationary parts in vibration-prone areas. Additionally, rubber tubing serves as a link between metal tubes.
To ensure the necessary strength, durability, and dependability for aerospace applications, synthetic rubbers such as neoprene, butyl, and EPDM are used in the production of aircraft tubing. The pressure ratings for aerospace rubber tubing typically range from 250 psi to 3000 psi.
In food processing, rubber tubing must adhere to strict FDA standards due to its critical role. Essential characteristics of food-grade rubber tubing include resistance to kinking and preventing the buildup of contaminants or sediments, which ensures smooth flow and easy cleaning. The tubing features thick walls to avoid kinking while maintaining a lightweight and flexible structure. Designed to handle the acids and chemicals present in food products, food-grade rubber tubing also resists alcohol and alkali. It is manufactured through a purity process to prevent the transfer of flavors and odors. This type of tubing is utilized for water, air, beverages, and dairy applications.
A diverse range of tubing and hoses are employed in marine applications, as illustrated in the diagram below. Water hoses are essential for circulating engine cooling water, flushing toilets, and cooling air conditioning systems. Drainage hoses, located in areas like the cockpit, sink, or shower, are designed to be kink-resistant and abrasion-resistant. Drinking water hoses adhere to FDA standards to ensure the water remains free of unpleasant tastes. Additionally, bilge pump and sanitation hoses are built to be durable for continuous use.
Medical and pharmaceutical grade rubber tubing is typically crafted from synthetic rubber, with silicone being the most prevalent, and involves minimal use of compounding agents. These tubes undergo rigorous testing, including implantation studies in both animals and humans, adhere to stringent FDA manufacturing guidelines, and are subject to high-quality control standards.
Applications for medical grade rubber tubing include feeding tubes, catheters, implants for both short-term and long-term use, and syringe pistons. The Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), operating under FDA regulations, oversees the standards for medical and pharmaceutical grade rubber tubing.
Essential characteristics of medical and pharmaceutical grade rubber tubing include being odorless, non-toxic, chemically inert, temperature stable, and highly resistant to chemicals. Compliance with FDA regulations largely depends on the choice of raw materials and the methods used for vulcanization or curing.
Rubber tubing is crucial for any industry involved in the transmission, movement, or transport of liquids or gases.
Despite its wide range of uses, rubber tubing requires proper care to maximize its lifespan and ensure reliability. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to avoid issues such as leaks, cracks, odors, or deformation.
Rubber's inherent softness and flexibility make it prone to tearing and wear. Most rubber tubing comes with a protective coating or layer to enhance its durability, but this does not completely eliminate the risk of damage. It is crucial to store rubber tubing in a clean, uncluttered environment, away from debris, moisture, and potentially damaging items like metal tools or sharp objects.
Proper handling is essential while using rubber tubing. Always adhere to the manufacturer's recommended procedures and use the correct connectors when attaching the tubing to equipment. Avoid applying excessive force or stress, as this can compromise the tubing's integrity. When relocating tubing, use a cart to transport it rather than dragging it, which can damage the protective coating. Never crush, stand on, or sharply bend the tubing to stop the flow.
Each rubber tubing is engineered for specific applications, with particular flow rates and pressure limits. Surpassing these rated specifications can lead to the tubing bursting or failing. Understanding the materials used in the rubber tubing is crucial for maintaining proper usage levels. Different materials have varying responses to pressure, determined by their tensile strength, which indicates the maximum pressure they can endure. Introducing chemicals into a tube designed for watering purposes can compromise its integrity and may lead to leaching.
The cleaning frequency for rubber tubing varies based on its usage. For infrequent use, a cleaning schedule of every six months is typical, though more frequent inspections may be necessary. Manufacturers usually provide detailed care instructions, including guidelines on cleaning intervals and methods.
Before cleaning rubber tubing, check for any signs of leaks or damage, and address these issues before proceeding. Use lukewarm water and a mild soap solution for washing the tubing. Ensure all dirt, chemicals, and residues are thoroughly removed. Rinse the tubing well to eliminate any remaining cleaning agents and dry it gently with a soft cloth. Avoid drying rubber tubing in direct sunlight or using excessive heat sources.
The storage environment of rubber tubing can greatly affect its performance and longevity. Factors like temperature, exposure to ozone or UV light, and physical abrasions play crucial roles in determining the condition of rubber tubing while in storage.
Temperature: Rubber tubing is affected by both the temperature of the fluids it carries and the ambient temperatures where it is stored. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can compromise the tubing's effectiveness and longevity.
Ozone and UV: Exposure to sunlight and ozone can lead to significant damage such as cracking or dry rot in rubber tubing. It is essential to ensure that tubing designed for outdoor use is thoroughly tested to withstand these conditions.
Abrasion: Frequent handling or dragging of rubber tubing across rough surfaces can cause erosion or mechanical wear. Choosing tubing made from more robust materials can help mitigate such damage.
Rubber tubing must be specifically designed for chemical resistance to endure exposure to chemicals. Tubing that is likely to encounter toxic substances should be rated appropriately to handle such interactions safely.
Rubber tubing is available in numerous sizes, configurations, grades, and applications. It's crucial to choose the appropriate type to ensure it meets the specific requirements for durability and performance needed for its intended use.
Rubber tubing is subject to the standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). For applications related to food, medical, and pharmaceutical uses, it is also regulated by ISO standards, the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) under the FDA, and the United States Pharmacopeia (USP).
ISO standards provide guidelines for hoses and hose assemblies. These regulations address:
The regulation numbers start with ISO 1307:2006 and ISO 1402:2009, extending to ISO 28702:2008 and ISO 30013:2001.
FDA 21CFR177.2600 pertains to materials that may come into contact with food but are not intended to be added to it. This regulation includes a detailed list of elastomers, vulcanization agents, accelerators, retarders, activators, antioxidants, plasticizers, fillers, and emulsifiers. It identifies materials that are generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
The regulation also outlines the proper extraction methods, defining the acceptable amount of milligrams per square inch. The list of approved rubber materials includes acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer (Buna), silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene, and ethylene propylene diene monomer.
The sanitary standards extend to all equipment that may come into contact with food, such as tubing, hoses, gaskets, o-rings, and seals.
USP Class VI is the standard used to evaluate the biocompatibility of materials. Among the six USP classifications for biocompatible materials, Class VI is the most stringent. It ensures that the materials used are safe, non-toxic, and do not cause any harmful chemical leaching that could affect the body over time. The USP plays a key role in regulating the safety and quality of medical devices and food-related products.
The CDRH oversees the manufacturing processes and safety standards for medical devices. Additionally, it regulates non-medical devices that emit electromagnetic radiation, such as cell phones and microwave ovens.
The CDRH categorizes devices into three distinct classifications:
Molding is a manufacturing process that uses a mold - the latter being a solid container used to give shape to a piece of material. It is a forming process. The form is transferred from the mold to the material by...
A rubber bushing is a form of vibration isolator that is placed between two parts to limit the motion between them and absorb, mollify, and buffer the energy produced by their interaction. They are very...
Extruded rubber is a group of products made by softening and pressurizing an elastomeric compound and forcing it to flow through a hard tool called a die. The resulting product is a continuous piece of material that has the same cross-section throughout its length...
Rubber gaskets are elastic components used for mechanically sealing the microscopic gap between two mating surfaces or joints. Examples of these surfaces are flange faces of piping and fittings, mating surfaces of an...
Rubber injection molding is when uncured rubber is transformed into a usable product by injecting raw rubber material into a mold cavity made of metal. The applied pressure produces a chemical reaction like...
Rubber molding is a process of transforming uncured rubber or an elastomer into a usable product by transferring, compressing, or injecting raw rubber material into a metal mold cavity...
There are several methods to perform rubber overmolding, and each method has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. The choice of method typically depends on the design and material requirements of the product being...
A rubber roller is a machine part that is composed of an inner round shaft or tube covered by an outer layer of elastomer compounds. The inner shaft is made of steel, aluminum alloys, or other strong and rigid material composites...
Rubber sheets are basically sheets made of rubber or cloth that are coated with rubber to improve the mechanical properties of rubber sheeting such as increased tensile strength and reduced elongation...
Rubber to metal bonding is when a rubber part has to be adhered to a metal part, a metal component is chemically prepared and is attached or encapsulated as part of the process to become a bonded rubber part...
Rubber trim is an extruded, sometimes molded, elastomer that is used to protect the edges or surfaces of objects from sudden impacts. They are usually found on panels, windows, doors, removable covers, and hatches...
Silicone rubber molding is a method for shaping, forming, and fabricating silicone rubber parts and products using a heated mold. The process involves compressing or injecting silicone rubber into a mold...
A grommet edging is a flexible rubber or plastic strip that covers rough and sharp surfaces found in openings and edges of panel walls to protect the passing electrical cables, wires, and other sensitive components...