Seven Great Benefits of PVC Tube & Hose

We manufacture a number of PVC tubes and hose plastic at Abbey, including the Air 60 Air Hose, reinforced PVC hose and clear PVC tube for brewery applications, and reinforced PVC nitrile Diesel Hose.

Just these three items demonstrate the versatility of PVC. In fact, PVC is one of the most versatile plastic materials in the world. Read on to find out more about some of its many other benefits.

Resistance

The resistant properties of PVC enhance its reliability and durability in several ways.

Firstly, its chemical resistance capabilities are very broad and make it resistant to chemical corrosion and chemical stress cracking. It’s also resistant to water, which is part of what makes it food-safe and suitable for keeping solutions sterile.

Secondly, PVC has excellent abrasion and corrosion resistance. It is resistant to weathering, rotting and shock, which means it’s a tough and reliable choice for all kinds of applications. Finally, the PVC tube and hose have very good kink resistance, which leads us onto…

Flexibility

The rubber-like flexibility of PVC gives PVC tubes and hoses reliable flexibility, strength and durability even under changing temperatures and conditions. It can even be used at low temperatures approaching -45°C while maintaining strength and pliancy.

Flow

Should you work in an industry where being able to visually monitor the flow of contents through your tube or hose is important, then PVC is an ideal solution.

PVC’s physical properties allow it to be easily manufactured so that it’s fully transparent. In addition, PVC also has excellent flow characteristics, which reduces the risk of blockages.

Versatility

Thanks to the number of unique formulations and various construction options that are available when it comes to manufacturing PVC, it is used across one of the broadest range of applications by any one type of plastic material.

All kinds of industries, from medical to industrial and chemical, use it for numerous applications, including fluid transfer, chemical processing, air and gas supply, and engine fuel lines. Its versatility is also enhanced by its customisable nature.

As a thermoplastic material, PVC can be formed into a variety of shapes, making it an ideal material for creating tube and hose. It can also be manufactured to be totally clear, tinted or even solidly coloured, depending on the needs of your application.

Safety

As the world’s most thoroughly researched and tested plastic, it has been proven that PVC meets all international standards for health and safety for the products and applications for which it is used.

This makes it particularly useful for medical applications and food and beverage applications – with its odourlessness and tastelessness being particularly relevant for the latter.

Stability

As a non-toxic, inert polymer, PVC is a stable material. So, when it conveys a variety of liquids, it does not undergo any significant changes in composition or properties, making it a supremely safe and reliable option for most applications.

Cheap Cost

PVC is the number one choice for many industries due to its excellent cost-performance advantages, which is only enhanced further by its durability and low maintenance.

While PVC is clearly a hugely versatile and excellent material for hose and tube, it’s always worth checking to make sure that you are choosing the correct tube or hose for the job.

We manufacture a number of high quality standard tube and also pride ourselves on our ability to create bespoke hose and tube for all kinds of industries and applications. Should you have questions about what tube is right for your project, then get in touch with our team – we’ll be happy to help.

What is PVC?

PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride, is a popular thermoplastic polymer widely used in construction and manufacturing. It’s known for its durability, resistance to chemicals, and versatility.

Consequently, adding plasticisers can make PVC softer and more flexible, making it suitable for applications like hoses and tubing.

What are the primary uses of PVC tubes and hoses?

PVC tubes and hoses are used in various applications, including plumbing, irrigation, medical devices, and protective sheathing for electrical cables. Their flexibility, strength, and chemical resistance make them suitable for transporting liquids, gases, and sometimes solids in industrial and residential settings.

How are PVC tubes and hoses manufactured?

PVC tubes and hoses are made by extrusion, a process where PVC resin is melted and forced through a shaped die. The material is then cooled to set its shape. Additives can be included to modify properties like flexibility, colour, and resistance to UV light and chemicals.

What is the difference between PVC and CPVC?

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) is a variant of PVC that’s more flexible and can withstand higher temperatures. This makes CPVC suitable for hot water applications, whereas standard PVC is generally used for cold water.

Are PVC tubes and hoses environmentally friendly?

PVC is a subject of environmental debate. While durable and has a long lifespan, its production involves potentially harmful chemicals and is not biodegradable. Recycling PVC can mitigate ecological impact, but the process is complex due to the variety of additives used.

Can PVC tubes handle high pressure?

PVC tubes can handle moderate pressure levels, making them suitable for residential plumbing and irrigation. However, their pressure capacity depends on the thickness and quality of the PVC. For high-pressure applications, specially designed PVC or alternative materials may be needed.

Are PVC hoses safe for drinking water?

PVC hoses labelled explicitly as “potable water safe” or “food-grade” are designed for drinking water. These hoses don’t contain harmful plasticisers and are manufactured to meet health and safety standards.

How does temperature affect PVC tubes?

PVC becomes more brittle in cold temperatures and may become softer or warp in high temperatures. Considering the environmental conditions when selecting PVC for outdoor or high-temperature applications is essential.

How do I cut and join PVC tubes?

PVC tubes can be easily cut with a saw or PVC cutter. They are typically joined using PVC cement, which chemically bonds the tubes together, or by using threaded fittings that screw together.

Can PVC tubes be reused or recycled?

PVC can be recycled, although the process is more complex than that of other plastics due to the variety of additives used. However, reuse is often limited due to health and safety concerns, especially for tubes transporting chemicals or non-potable water.

What is the lifespan of PVC tubes and hoses?

PVC tubes and hoses have a long lifespan, often exceeding 50 years under normal conditions. However, exposure to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or UV light can shorten this lifespan.

Are PVC tubes resistant to chemicals?

PVC is generally resistant to many acids, bases, salts, aliphatic solutions, and oxidising agents. However, it can be damaged by some solvents, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and aromatic compounds. Always check the chemical compatibility for specific applications.

Is PVC tubing suitable for underground use?

PVC is commonly used for underground pipes due to its strength and resistance to corrosion and chemicals. However, proper installation and protection against physical damage are crucial.

Can PVC hoses be used for air or pneumatic systems?

PVC hoses can be used for pneumatic systems, but ensuring they are rated for the system’s specific pressure and temperature conditions is essential. Specialised air hoses made of PVC are available for this purpose.