Pneumatic Tubing Explained: Types, Materials, and How to Choose the Right One for Your System

What is pneumatic tubing?Where is it used?

Pneumatic tubing refers to the compressed air piping system used in pneumatic systems to transport compressed air or vacuum. It is one of the key components of a pneumatic pipeline system, alongside pneumatic fittings. Pneumatic tubing serves as a crucial medium connecting various pneumatic components such as valves, actuators, cylinders, and tools. Additionally, pneumatic tubing plays an important role in enabling the flexibility of pneumatic actuators, allowing the system to operate efficiently and with high flexibility.

Working Principle of a Pneumatic Tubing

Pressure Generation: A blower (fan + motor) creates a pressure differential.

Carrier Dispatch: At the sending station, the carrier is inserted, the destination is selected, and the "Send" button is pressed.

Airflow and Routing: The blower propels the carrier through the tubes. Intelligent diverters at junctions guide the carrier along the correct path.

Reception: The receiving station detects the incoming carrier, reduces the pressure, and unlocks the station for retrieval.

Types of Pneumatic Tubing

There are various types of pneumatic hoses, and their material must adapt to the specific requirements of the industry and environment in which the pneumatic system is applied. For example, in dynamic applications, Polyurethane Tubing is very suitable due to its highly flexible and wear-resistant properties. In industrial environments requiring high durability, Nylon Tubing is more appropriate because of its high-pressure and high-temperature resistant characteristics. For low-pressure and flexibility-focused air system applications, Polyethylene Tubing is the ideal choice. In high-temperature environments, especially in chemical settings, PFA (Polytetrafluoro Ethylene) Tube becomes particularly useful.

There are various types of pneumatic pipes, but due to the different material contents, each type of pipe has multiple specific application environments and places：

PU Tubing types include：

Ester-Based Polyurethane Tubing

PU Coil Tube

Ether-Based Polyurethane Tubing

....and so on.

Nylon Tubing types include:

PA6 Nylon Tube

PA66 Nylon Tube

PA11 Nylon Tube

..and so on.

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How to Choose the Appropriate Size

To select the proper air pipe size, it is essential to understand the inner diameter (ID) and outer diameter (OD) of the pneumatic air tubing, as these are critical to the performance of pneumatic systems. Using an improper size can lead to insufficient airflow, reduced system efficiency, excessive noise, and component wear.

Choose Inner Diameter (ID) Based on Airflow Demand

The inner diameter determines the maximum gas flow rate. If the ID is too small, it will cause increased pressure drop, affecting the response speed of pneumatic components. The ID should be determined based on the equipment with the highest air consumption in the system, ensuring a stable air supply and quick response.

Consider the Velocity of the Carrier or Medium

The pipe diameter influences the flow velocity inside the pipe. High flow velocity can cause significant noise and accelerate wear on the inner pipe walls. Generally, for pneumatic systems, the recommended flow velocity is controlled within 10–15 m/s to balance response speed and service life.

Select Outer Diameter (OD) Based on Usage Environment and Installation Method

The outer diameter affects the pipe's strength and bending resistance, especially for long-distance piping or situations involving movement and bending. If installation space is limited, hoses with thinner walls and greater flexibility may be preferred.

Fitting Compatibility

The selected pipe's outer diameter must perfectly match the fitting size to prevent air leaks or loose connections.

Comprehensive Consideration of System Layout and Maintenance

Excessive piping length and too many bends can also affect airflow efficiency. Choosing the appropriate inner diameter can reduce pressure loss. Avoid oversizing the pipe to prevent wasted space and unnecessary costs.