Plastic Products for Fluid Handling

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is often used in blood processing and kidney dialysis applications because it retains its strength and chemical inertness even at the extremely high temperatures needed to withstand frequent sterilization. When it comes to medical tubing, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) is a durable yet flexible plastic that can safely maintain purity up to 300°F, making it appropriate for a wide range of applications. At even higher temperatures, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) may be used.

Fluid lines transport liquids from one point to another in a diverse range of vehicles and machines. The best material depends on the fluid being transported, the temperature range encountered, and the flexibility needed. Nylon offers strength, flexibility, and heat and abrasion resistance, making it a popular choice for hydraulic systems. Polyethylene is used in many low temperature and low pressure applications, while a fluoropolymer like PTFE may be chosen when the contents are extremely corrosive.

It’s important that any plastic used in food processing or dispensing equipment meets all required compliances, which may include FDA, USDA, NSF, and 3-A Dairy. Many food grade materials come in blue or metal-detectable varieties to help detect any pieces that wear into the food. Acetal is commonly used throughout the food industry because of its chemical and temperature resistance. PTFE or PEEK may be chosen for dispensing nozzles because of their ability to withstand harsh cleaning. Polypropylene is another FDA compliant material that is valued for its chemical and corrosion resistance.

As their name suggests, heat exchangers transfer heat through conduction from one medium to another and are found in a wide variety of machines. Plastic is often used in heat exchangers in corrosive environments, such as the chemical processing industry. Polypropylene is often preferred because of its temperature range and stability around a wide variety of chemicals.

This sophisticated process utilizes high pressure and a variety of solvents to separate components of a mixture for analysis. PEEK is the preferred material for HPLC tubing and valves because this high-performance plastic retains its purity and chemical resistance even under high pressures and extremely harsh conditions. HDPE is often used for solvent reservoirs because of its resistance to a wide range of chemicals.

Drinking water, also known as potable water, is subject to state and federal regulations to ensure it is safe for human consumption. Both chemical and biological contaminants are closely monitored, and water treatment is provided as necessary to bring them to acceptable levels. HDPE is the go-to material for the transport and treatment of potable water because it’s a reliable, low maintenance solution that can last nearly a hundred years, with excellent chemical resistance. While HDPE excels in low-pressure applications, UHMW-PE or PVC are preferred for high-pressure applications, such as main lines.

Semiconductor fabrication requires dependable materials that are flame retardant and able to withstand high temperatures and harsh chemicals. PVC is often used in wet benches and wet processing systems because it is fire retardant with excellent chemical resistance. Polypropylene may be used when higher temperatures are expected.

While all tanks require durable, chemically resistant materials that can be easily fabricated, the best material depends on what liquids the tank will hold and the temperature and environmental conditions the tank will encounter. Polypropylene is a highly recyclable material that is easy to sterilize and available in both homopolymer and copolymer varieties. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a non-flammable, cost-effective material often used for tank liners in transport vessels because it can insulate the liquids being transported.