In industry, high temperatures are a regular factor. In many industrial applications, extremely high temperatures are the norm. Although their specific products and output may vary, such industries have one thing in common: the use of high-temperature silicone tubing.

High-temperature tubing made of silicone is ideal for applications that require venting of extremely hot air from one area to another.

Why use high temperature silicone tubing?

Silicone is one of the best compounds to use for high-temperature applications. It withstands high temperatures better than most other materials. Typically, high temperature silicone tubing can handle temperatures up to 550°F. This is a must-have feature for industries such as plastics processing, as they need to direct extremely hot air into an area to shape their plastic materials.

High temperatures mean different things to different industries. For automotive applications, 200°F is very high, but for more intense applications such as industrial furnaces, the maximum allowable temperature is over 500°F!

If you are unsure of the maximum operating temperature range for high temperature tubing, simply look at the name of the product. Often, the name of the silicone hose will be followed by a number, such as 550. This number indicates the absolute maximum temperature that the hose can withstand. Knowing the temperature you expect to handle will make choosing the right high temperature silicone hose a simple process.

However, there is one thing that needs to be differentiated for high temperature hose products. Just because a hose may be able to withstand extremely high temperatures, it does not necessarily mean that it will be able to withstand combustion. A product’s ignition point is different from its temperature resistance. The ignition point is the ability of a material to ignite when in contact with fire. If you want a high temperature pipe that can withstand flame contact, be sure to check that the hose is manufactured to flame resistant material specifications.

Depending on the nature of the application, flexibility of high temperature silicone hose may be required. Bendable high-temperature hoses are useful and valuable in tight or confined areas. Silicone high-temperature hose can be bent, but if bent continuously, bending fatigue may occur later. If bent in many different ways, the material will tear over time. In most cases, high temperature silicone tubing will maintain a straight shape unless bent by hand.

In addition to temperature resistance, high-temperature silicone tubing is resistant to certain chemicals. Silicone compounds have the ability to survive in chemicals. In general, silicone high temperature hoses can withstand exposure to certain types of oils, solvents and gases. It is best to check the compatibility of the silicone hose with the chemicals involved in your application.

High-temperature silicone hoses come in different forms and varieties. Glass fiber threads support the frame of some silicone hoses, while others are insulated. The “spiral lock” type of high-temperature hose items are supported by an external steel spiral that makes the body of the hose more durable, thus extending its life. Some industrial applications are abrasive by their very nature. In environments such as factories, where the hose may come into contact with machinery or even flying particles, it is important to be able to maintain a degree of physical strength.

High temperature silicone hoses are ideal for high temperature applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food packaging, plastics processing and automotive operations. Be sure to check the specifications of your hoses to ensure they match your industry’s needs.

We are a supplier of silicone hoses in various types of Silicone Hose Kit, so if you are unsure or have a need, please feel free to ask us.