Natural rubber tubing

The principal function of rubber tubing is to accommodate and transport different fluids and gases. It is utilised in flow lines for liquids and gases. It is flexible and resilient because of the material used for its construction. Rubbers are primarily elastomers so they naturally consist of high yield strength and have excellent tear and thermal stability. There are two types of materials used for rubber tubing, one is natural rubber tubing and the other is synthetic. The natural rubber tubing is further categorised into two; Gum tubing and latex tubing. Both of them being natural rubbers have compounds like polyisoprene and latex. They have superior elasticity and good elastic memory. Latex rubber tubing is popular as surgical, fitness and gum rubber tubing. It is cheap and has applications in many fields including industrial, medical and recreational. This form of natural rubber tubing can be a cause of allergies for latex-sensitive people.

It is up to the manufacturers to decide the design of the rubber tubing depending on the application. Pressure level, type of liquid to be contained, temperatures etc. are the considerations to be noted. Based on this and appropriate tubing is created with desired diameter and thickness including shape, colour and attachments. The characteristics of rubber tubes incorporate reinforcement of additional fibres to provide extra strength, they are made resistant to electrical discharge and are sterilised for sanitary applications. While purchasing rubber tubing, some specifications have to be kept in mind. These include noting maximum pressure, minimum vacuum and bend radius and range of temperature. Along with these the dimensions and thickness of the wall are also to be considered.

The benefits of rubber tubing include its flexibility, accessibility in multiple colours, being explosion-proof and having high tensile strength. These advantages make rubber tubing fit for aerospace, chemical, food processing industry and many more. Natural rubber tubing is very useful and environmentally friendly. It is biodegradable and natural rubber is used in the majority of the activities. Considering it for tubing is in the best interest of the environment and the user.