Flexible plastic tubing is the best material for transferring gases and liquids in your gas lines, condensers, drain lines or incubators. Plastic tubing remains flexible at extremely cold temperatures and is less permeable than a rubber tube.

Industrial plastic tubes are also resistant to UV light and ozone, so they can be used in outside applications. Non-corrugated tubing provides a smooth inner-wall that prevents buildup and makes cleanup easy.

1. Determine what you need from clear plastic tubing. Make sure the tubing retains its quality at the temperatures required for your application.

2. Choose the best tubing for your industry. Medical equipment needs tubing that can stand up to repeated sterilization. It should also be manufactured specifically for contact with organic materials.

3. Buy tubing in the correct diameter. Tubes can always be cut down to the correct size, but the diameter must be right or the tubing will not fit or seal correctly.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check the specifications on industrial plastic tubing before you buy

Plastic tubing manufacturers offer plastic tubes wholesale to withstand various temperatures and types of sterilization processes. Make sure the tubing you purchase fits the specifications of the machines you'll use it for. In addition to temperature, you'll need to verify the thickness of the tubing walls to ensure flexibility.

I recommend: Utilities Supply Company provides very detailed descriptions of the tubing offered from a variety of companies. Ryan Herco Flow Solutions supplies both reinforced and unreinforced tubing for heavy-duty usage.

Buy plastic tubing made specifically for your industry

Some industries require very specialized plastic tubing. Medical tubes should be able to transfer organic materials, plus retain viability after repeated sterilization. The food industry needs sanitary plastic tubing that can withstand high temperatures to avoid scalding processing equipment.

I recommend: United States Plastic Corp. offers an excellent assortment of medical-grade industrial plastic tubing. Randolph Austin Co. lists several plastic tubing solutions that come in a range of sizes, including food industry tubing.

Ensure a custom plastic tubing is the correct diameter

Some equipment uses abnormally-sized or shaped tubing that's extremely hard to find, or must be custom ordered. When you buy custom, biggest expense is the initial setup required to manufacture your tubing, plus the cost required to produce a minimum amount.

I recommend: Custom plastic tubing can be made to your exact specification from Crafted Plastics Inc.. Inplex Plastic Tubing offers product made to your specifications, as long as you're prepared to place a sizable order.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Purchase custom tubing in bulk since you can easily cut to any length you need. Many companies charge the most for setting up the machine to your exact specifications; after that, each additional foot of tubing has a minimal cost.