
Plastic tubing is a versatile material used across a wide range of industries, including construction, medicine, and chemistry. It is valued for its flexibility, durability, and low cost. Plastic tubing is also known for its corrosion resistance, which varies depending on the type of polymer used. For example, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is a high-heat, corrosion-resistant plastic used in industrial and plumbing systems. Other types of plastic tubing, such as PTFE and PVC, also offer excellent corrosion resistance in various applications. The choice of tubing depends on the specific requirements of the application, including the type of chemicals or corrosive agents the tubing will be exposed to, the temperature range, and the presence of other factors like moisture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Corrosion resistance | High |
| Cost | Low |
| Durability | Varies with wall thickness and resin blend |
| Strength | Varies with wall thickness and resin blend |
| Tensile strength | Varies with type of plastic |
| Flexibility | High |
| Types | Polyolefins, PVC, HDPE, PTFE, EVA, Acrylic, CPVC, Fiberglass, Nylon |
| Applications | Industrial, medical, chemical, electrical, plumbing, construction |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic tubing's corrosion resistance depends on the type of polymer used
- Corrugated plastic tubing is used in corrosive environments
- PTFE plastic tubing is flexible and resistant to corrosive liquids and gases
- CPVC is a high-heat, corrosion-resistant plastic
- Nylon plastic tubing is more corrosion-resistant than other types of nylon tubing

Plastic tubing's corrosion resistance depends on the type of polymer used
Plastic tubing is corrosion-resistant, but the degree of corrosion resistance depends on the type of polymer used. The specific application and environment in which the tubing will be used also play a crucial role in determining the most suitable plastic tubing.
Polyolefins, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, exhibit corrosion resistance and are available in various densities and molecular structures, making them versatile for different design requirements. Polyethylene, specifically high-density polyethylene (HDPE), offers superior corrosion resistance compared to low-density polyethylene. HDPE is commonly used for the transfer of water, air, and chemicals, and can be sterilised by boiling. It is also abrasion-resistant and capable of withstanding high pressure. Polypropylene is another polyolefin that demonstrates chemical resistance and is FDA-compliant, making it suitable for applications in the food and medical industries.
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a notable example of a plastic polymer with exceptional corrosion resistance. It is flexible and capable of withstanding a wide range of temperatures, from -390°F to 500°F, without cracking. PTFE is commonly used in laboratories and chemical operations due to its ability to withstand corrosive liquids and gases.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a widely used plastic polymer known for its corrosion resistance. It finds applications in various industrial contexts, including valves, processing tanks, plumbing, and electrical cable insulation. CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is a variation of PVC that offers even higher corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for self-supporting constructions in high-temperature environments.
Other plastic polymers with notable corrosion resistance include nylon (polyamide) tubing, which can withstand higher temperatures and demonstrates exceptional chemical, abrasion, impact, and moisture resistance. Additionally, Kynar® (PVDF), a high molecular weight thermoplastic polymer, offers excellent chemical inertness and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring resistance to a wide range of chemicals.
In summary, the corrosion resistance of plastic tubing is influenced by the specific polymer used, with polyolefins, HDPE, PTFE, PVC, CPVC, nylon, and Kynar® being notable examples of highly corrosion-resistant plastic polymers. The choice of polymer depends on the specific application, temperature exposure, chemicals or corrosive agents present, and other environmental factors unique to the intended use of the tubing.
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Corrugated plastic tubing is used in corrosive environments
Plastic tubing is widely used in various industrial applications due to its flexibility, durability, and corrosion resistance. Corrugated plastic tubing, in particular, is well-suited for corrosive environments and offers several advantages in such settings.
One of the key benefits of corrugated plastic tubing in corrosive environments is its resistance to corrosion. Different types of plastics exhibit varying degrees of corrosion resistance, depending on the polymer used. Polyolefins, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, are known for their corrosion resistance and are commonly used in corrugated tubing. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another widely used material for corrugated tubing, offering excellent corrosion resistance in industrial applications.
The flexibility of corrugated plastic tubing makes it ideal for corrosive environments. It can be easily extended or compressed without affecting its inner diameter, allowing for versatility in installation and use. This adaptability ensures that it can be tailored to the specific requirements of the application, whether it involves fluid transfer, chemical processing, or laboratory settings.
Additionally, corrugated plastic tubing is designed to withstand harsh conditions. Certain types of corrugated tubing, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), offer exceptional corrosion resistance, a higher working temperature range, and higher tensile strength. This makes HDPE tubing suitable for transferring water, air, and chemicals, even in corrosive environments. PTFE tubing is another example of a material that can withstand a wide range of temperatures while resisting corrosive liquids and gases, making it ideal for laboratories and chemical operations.
The choice of corrugated plastic tubing in corrosive environments also depends on the specific chemicals or corrosive agents present. Different plastics have varying resistance to different chemicals. For instance, nylon tubing, or polyamide tubing, offers excellent chemical resistance and can withstand higher temperatures, making it suitable for environments where exposure to certain chemicals is possible.
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PTFE plastic tubing is flexible and resistant to corrosive liquids and gases
Plastic tubing is widely used in various industries, and its strength and durability depend on factors like wall thickness and resin blend. While all plastic is corrosion-resistant to some degree, certain types of plastic tubing offer superior resistance to corrosive liquids and gases. PTFE plastic tubing, also known as Teflon, stands out for its exceptional flexibility and resistance to corrosion.
PTFE tubing is a synthetic fluoropolymer that offers a broad temperature range, from approximately -400°F to 500°F. This makes it suitable for applications in extremely cold and hot environments. PTFE's flexibility ensures it won't crack or shatter under high-temperature conditions. Its smooth surface finish, low coefficient of friction, and lubricity make it ideal for bushing or bearing applications.
One of the key advantages of PTFE tubing is its ability to withstand highly corrosive liquids and gases, even at elevated temperatures. It is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents. This versatility makes PTFE tubing a popular choice in industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and laboratories.
PTFE tubing is particularly resistant to various acids, including hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid. This makes it ideal for handling acidic substances in chemical and pharmaceutical processes. Additionally, PTFE tubing is resistant to bases like sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, which are commonly used in the production of base storage tanks and transfer hoses.
The versatility, durability, and corrosion resistance of PTFE plastic tubing make it a preferred choice in numerous industrial and consumer applications. Its flexibility, broad temperature range, and chemical resistance properties contribute to its popularity across diverse sectors.
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CPVC is a high-heat, corrosion-resistant plastic
Plastic tubing is widely used in various industrial applications. The type of polymer used determines the amount of corrosion resistance. Common corrosion-resistant plastics include polyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene) and PVC.
PVC tubing is chemical, corrosion, abrasion, and wear-resistant, making it suitable for industrial applications. However, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) offers even higher corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. CPVC is a high-heat, corrosion-resistant plastic that is ideal for applications where heat, pressure, and chemical resistance are critical.
CPVC is a thermoplastic with superior resistance to corrosive chemicals at high temperatures and pressures. While PVC has a maximum pressurized service temperature of around 140°F to 160°F, CPVC can withstand temperatures up to 200°F before weakening. This makes CPVC suitable for industrial piping systems that require high-temperature performance.
The higher corrosion resistance of CPVC compared to PVC is due to its chemical composition. CPVC is also more flexible and impact-resistant, enhancing its durability. It is commonly used in plumbing applications, commercial and industrial liquid distribution pipes, and vent piping for air temperatures below 200°F. CPVC is also safe for applications involving food and drinking water, meeting FDA standards.
CPVC is available in different wall thicknesses, with Schedule 40 being thinner and more flexible, while Schedule 80 offers greater strength. CPVC is offered in off-white, light gray, and yellow colours. While CPVC may have a higher cost than PVC, its long-lasting performance and versatility make it a valuable choice for high-temperature, corrosive environments.
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Nylon plastic tubing is more corrosion-resistant than other types of nylon tubing
Plastic tubing is widely used across various industries, from chemical processing to medical applications. It is favoured for its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. While all plastic is corrosion-resistant to some degree, the level of resistance depends on the type of polymer used.
Nylon plastic tubing, also known as polyamide tubing, stands out for its exceptional corrosion resistance. This tubing is made from polyamide resin, which gives it superior resistance to abrasion and chemicals. The unique material structure of nylon plastic tubing enhances its ability to withstand corrosion.
One of the key advantages of nylon plastic tubing is its resistance to moisture absorption. This feature sets it apart from other types of nylon tubing and contributes to its enhanced corrosion resistance. By minimising moisture absorption, nylon plastic tubing maintains its integrity and prolongs its lifespan, even in humid or chemically challenging environments.
Additionally, nylon plastic tubing offers greater flexibility and a smaller bend radius compared to other nylon tubing options. This flexibility, combined with its corrosion resistance, makes it ideal for complex designs and applications where exposure to chemicals or corrosive agents is a concern.
The versatility of nylon plastic tubing is another notable attribute. It can be customised to meet specific requirements, including various sizes, cut lengths, and colours. This adaptability allows nylon plastic tubing to be tailored for a wide range of applications, from high-pressure systems to sensitive medical devices.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic tubing is resistant to corrosion. The type of polymer used determines the amount of corrosion resistance. Some common types of corrosion-resistant plastic tubing include:
- Polyolefins (polyethylene and polypropylene)
- PVC
- CPVC
- PTFE
- EVA
- Acrylic
- Fiberglass
- Nylon
The corrosion resistance of plastic tubing depends on various factors, including the type of plastic, the temperature, the presence of other chemicals, and the specific application.
Plastic tubing is flexible, lightweight, durable, and cost-effective. It can be formed, shaped, and configured for specific applications and is resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and chemicals.
Corrosion-resistant plastic tubing is used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Chemical processing
- Laboratories
- Plumbing
- Electrical insulation
- Surgical and pharmaceutical applications
When choosing a corrosion-resistant plastic tubing, consider the specific chemicals or corrosive agents it will be exposed to, the temperatures, moisture levels, and other environmental factors. It is important to review technical information and test materials thoroughly for their intended applications.









































