tubing

[pphx459]

Hi, I am wondering what the difference between vinyl and silicon tubing? What are the pro and cons and where do see pics of these?

[blsnelling1]

I think by silicon you're refering to tubing like Tygon or Clear Flex 60. This is the kind of tubing you will normally find at water cooling sites. Vinyl tubing is what you are most likely to find at your local hardware stores. Vinyl tubing is usually much thinner, less pliable and much more likely to kink. It's also much cheaper. However, 1/2" ClearFlex is only $1.50/foot. Most seem to prefer the 1/2" variety that has the 1/8" walls with an OD of 3/4". Some use 3/8" tubing over 1/2" barbs since the IDs are very close and the tubing is less bulky.

[Koooler King]

Try www.usplastic.com ... they sell various tubing and fittings. They have photos, pricing, and a compatibility chart. Good luck.

KK

[repilce]

Actually CF60 , i dont know about Tygon, is pvc. it's not like the kind you plumb your house with. but it is pvc, it might have a silcone base added to it or somthing, but it's actually designed for chemicals, which vynle or silcone alone will not handel for extend amounts of time if they are harsh chemicals.

[pphx459]

Thanks for the info guys, that really helps!

[johan851]

Also check for chemical PVC tubing at www.mcmaster.com - should be $.65 a foot (on page 85) for chemical PVC tubing, 1/2" ID 5/8" OD, 1/8" wall...great stuff. :)

[pphx459]

What about the tygon tubing? Is this any good?

[nikhsub1]

Originally posted by pphx459
What about the tygon tubing? Is this any good?
The best, formulation R-3603 1/2" ID, 3/4" OD 1/8" wall is what I use.

Silicone tubing should be avoided, it is VERY porous and will absorb all dyes etc. It will also contribute to evaporation.

[blsnelling1]

Silicone tubing should be avoided, it is VERY porous and will absorb all dyes etc. It will also contribute to evaporation.

Glad to learn that!