Types of Hose Core Tube Materials
Types of Hose Core Tube Materials
Metal
Pros
Metal cores (commonly 316L stainless steel) are a good choice for general fluid system needs. They are usually rated for temperatures between –325°F and 850°F or higher (–200°C and 454°C), making metal core tubes an exceptionally good choice for system media at extreme temperatures. Metal flexible tubing is also a good choice when there is little allowance for permeation or absorption.
Cons
Since the advent of fluoropolymers, metal core tubes are typically not chosen for highly caustic or acidic media due to issues with corrosion. It is important to note that metal cores are also not well suited for operations with repetitive movements and vibration, as they are more susceptible to fatigue failure.
Silicone
Pros
Silicone cores have become the material of choice for sanitary applications due to their flexibility and cleanliness. A typical temperature range for silicone extends from –65°F to 500°F (–53°C to 315°C).
Cons
Silicone is quite absorptive—leading to hose contamination. If a fluid is absorbed into the walls of the core tube, it may remain there for a period of time before seeping out into the media currently within the fluid system. Steam cleaning, one of the most common sterilization methods for silicone, may also not fully remove the absorbed fluid and quickly damage a silicone core.
It is also important to note that silicone is incompatible with many common solvents and has limited chemical compatibility. Moreover, high temperatures may cause premature failure—causing the hose to become brittle and break down.
Fluoropolymer
Pros
Fluoropolymer core tubes are very widely used and quickly replacing silicone as the material of choice for sanitary applications. PTFE, PFA, and FEP are three common fluoropolymers with a typical temperature range from –65°F to 450°F (–53°C to 230°C).
Fluoropolymer cores are the most chemically inert cores available. They are nonaging, nonstick, easy to clean and can withstand repetitive steam cleaning. Like metal cores, fluoropolymers also have a low absorption rate.
New advancements have allowed fluoropolymer cores to gain flexibility comparable to that of silicone. Bonding technology allows a fiberglass braid to be added as a layer for increased flexibility. The glue-free bonding process removes the potential for glue absorption into the core walls—removing the chance for contamination.
Cons
Fluoropolymer cores are more permeable than metal core hoses. If your application cannot tolerate permeation, consider specifying a less permeable core material such as metal.
Fluid can generate electrostatic charge as it passes through fluoropolymer core tubes. This can cause static sparking—damaging the hose and posing a safety hazard. Avoid this occurrence by specifying a carbon black filled core if your process requires static dissipation. Carbon allows the charge to travel to the end connection and exit safely.
Thermoplastic (Nylon)
Pros
Thermoplastic, or nylon, core tubes are often chosen for hydraulic applications. They can withstand high pressures and have a typical temperature range from –40°F to 200°F (–40°C to 93°C). Available in diameter sizes up to one-inch, thermoplastic core materials are regarded as good economical, general purpose hoses and can handle pressure impulses better than metal and Fluoropolymer core hoses.
Cons
Thermoplastic hoses are also highly permeable due to the soft porous material used in its construction. Furthermore, the softer materials have a lower temperature range as compared to many other hose types.
Rubber
Pros
Rubber core hoses are economical, general purpose hoses with a typical temperature range like that of thermoplastic. Rubber hoses have the ability to be crushed without permanent damage and can be built with little to no special equipment. They are also available in diameter sizes above two inches - larger than their counterparts.
Cons
Rubber core is recommended for low-pressure uses only. Cosmetically, these hoses are also known to erode quicker.
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