Tubing, hose, and piping systems are critical components in pneumatic and hydraulic systems, enabling the transmission of fluids (compressed air, gases, or liquids) to power machinery and control processes. These systems form the backbone of industrial automation by ensuring precise energy transfer, motion control, and operational efficiency. Their importance spans industries such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and aerospace, where reliability and performance under extreme conditions are paramount.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Tubing (Metal/Plastic) | Rigid, high-pressure resistance, corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel, copper) | Fixed installations in factories, hydraulic power units |
| Flexible Hose | Multi-layer construction with reinforcement (e.g., rubber, thermoplastic with braided fibers/wires) | Mobile equipment (excavators), robotic arms with dynamic movement |
| Piping Systems | Larger diameter, welded/flanged connections, designed for bulk fluid/gas transfer | Petrochemical plants, pneumatic conveying systems |
| Vacuum Tubing | Smooth inner surfaces, low outgassing materials (e.g., PTFE, stainless steel) | Semiconductor manufacturing, vacuum pumps |
Typical components include:
| Parameter | Importance |
|---|---|
| Working Pressure (psi/bar) | Determines system safety and performance limits |
| Temperature Range ( C) | Ensures material stability under thermal stress |
| Material Compatibility | Prevents degradation from fluids, chemicals, or environmental exposure |
| Inner Diameter (ID)/Outer Diameter (OD) | Affects flow rate and system efficiency |
| Bend Radius | Dictates installation flexibility and fatigue resistance |
Case Study: In automotive assembly lines, reinforced rubber hoses enable 6-axis robot arms to operate at 150 psi with 10,000+ cycle durability.
| Manufacturer | Representative Products |
|---|---|
| Parker Hannifin | Parflex hydraulic hoses, stainless steel tubing for aerospace |
| Emerson (ASCO) | Numatics pneumatic tubing systems for food processing |
| Igus | Chainflex hybrid hoses for robotic applications |
| Festo | Modular piping systems for factory automation |
Key developments include: