Polyethylene Tubing
What Is LDPE Tubing?
LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) is a thermoplastic polymer commonly used in plastic tubing manufacturing.
In piping applications, LDPE is primarily used in low-pressure gas and liquid transfer systems. It is commonly installed in fixed or semi-fixed piping configurations, such as internal equipment piping and low-pressure fluid lines.
Material Characteristics of LDPE
Flexibility and Bending Performance
LDPE provides good flexibility and is suitable for fixed or semi-fixed low-pressure piping configurations.
Under typical routing conditions, the tubing can be bent along the piping path during installation.
Low-Temperature Performance
LDPE does not become brittle easily under low-temperature conditions and maintains basic material toughness. It is suitable for low-temperature environments or low-temperature fluid transfer conditions.
The service temperature can be as low as approximately -45°C (-50°F).
Chemical Compatibility
LDPE offers good material compatibility with general industrial fluids and is suitable for low-pressure liquid transfer and cleaning environments.
If used with special chemical media or under long-term high-temperature exposure, confirmation based on the specific media and operating conditions is recommended.
Typical Application Scenarios
Food and Potable Water Applications
- Potable water transfer
- Low-pressure fluid lines in food processing
Industrial Equipment Applications
- Low-pressure gas transfer
- Cooling water circulation systems
- Tubing for general cleaning systems
LDPE Tubing Size Specifications
SHPI provides both metric and inch outside diameter (O.D.) options to facilitate equipment interface matching.
| Size Category | Metric O.D. | Inch O.D. | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small size | 4 mm | 1/8", 5/32" | Precision instruments, analytical equipment |
| Medium-small size | 6 mm, 8 mm | 1/4", 5/16" | Laboratory equipment, internal low-pressure fluid lines |
| Medium size | 10 mm | 3/8" | Food equipment and cleaning systems |
| Large size | 12 mm | 1/2", 5/8", 3/4" | Low-pressure fluid main lines |
Pressure ratings and operating temperature ranges are specified in the individual product specification sheets.
Further Reading
→ Material Allocation of LDPE, PU and Nylon Tubing in Food Processing Lines
Polyethylene Tubing LDPE
ㆍModerate flexibility, suitable for fixed or low-dynamic piping configurations
ㆍCommonly used for low-pressure fluid or air transfer applications