Silicone tubing is a ubiquitous material that has found its use in various industries, from healthcare to automotive. But, where did it come from? What started as an experimental material has now become an essential component in modern manufacturing. Flex Technologies has been offering custom designed and standard silicone hoses and tubing since 2003. Our team works closely with our customers to ensure they have the soft silicone tubing they need. To understand the history of silicone tubing, we must go back to its origin. Shop with us today!

In the Beginning

Silicone, as a material, was first discovered in the 1800s by scientists conducting experiments involving acidic compounds. However, it was not until 1943 that Dr. Eugene G. Rochow of General Electric achieved the first usable silicone via the reaction between methyl chloride and silica. At the time, the idea was to create a replacement for natural rubber, which was costly and difficult to produce. However, the silicone was found to be not only a better replacement for rubber, but also an entirely new material with new properties not found in traditional rubber.

During World War II, silicone was used mainly for aviation purposes due to its unique chemical and thermal properties, including excellent high-temperature resistance, low temperature tolerance, and water resistance — which made it ideal for applications like gaskets and o-rings in engines.

Manufacturing

Manufacturers soon realized that silicone was more than just a replacement for natural rubber; it could be used for a wide array of applications due to its unique properties. More research and development of silicone led to the production of silicone tubing, which revolutionized manufacturing.

Silicone tubing manufacturing took off precisely in the 1960s, and since then, it has become a material that is crucial to many modern industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and electronics.

Impact on Modern Manufacturing

Silicone tubing's emergence led to the widespread use of silicone in medical devices, such as catheters and tubing, up to industrial and automotive applications, such as brake boosters and fuel and coolant systems.

Benefits of Silicone Tubing

One of the most significant advantages of silicone tubing is its resistance to high temperatures — it can withstand exposure to heat exceeding 200 degrees Celsius, allowing it to perform in demanding conditions while protecting the fluids or gasses transported within. In contrast, other materials could break down or melt under similar circumstances.

Another advantage of silicone tubing is its ability to repel water and other fluids, which makes it ideal for use in healthcare or cleaning industries.

Silicone tubing offers many more advantages than traditional material alternatives like elastomers and latex. Silicone tubing retains its flexibility under extreme temperatures and is resistant to chemical or environmental changes. It can be autoclaved or sterilized using other methods, allowing it to be used in medical applications safely, unlike other materials that may be degraded by sterilization processes.

ORDER YOUR SILICONE TUBING TODAY

From its accidental discovery to its subsequent development into an essential component of modern manufacturing, silicone tubing revolutionized manufacturing with its unique properties.

Due to its high-temperature resistance, flexibility, and ability to resist abrasions and chemicals, silicone tubing finds abundant use in various applications. Thanks to its resistance to harsh conditions and safety in medical applications, silicone tubing has saved lives, reduced the cost of maintenance, and boosted the efficiency of various industries.

As the manufacturing industry continues to advance, silicone tubing continues to evolve, integrating technological enhancements into its production methods. For example, it is now possible to produce silicone tubing of various designs, colors, and dimensions, allowing it to be used in even more applications.

As a material that has been around for over six decades, silicone tubing continues to prove its reliability and durability, and its place in modern manufacturing is well established. Flex Technologies is proud to be a manufacturer and supplier of silicone tubing solutions to our many customers. We understand the importance of having a top-rated product, which is why we offer custom silicone tubing for your unique needs. In addition, we offer high-quality silicone hoses that meet OEM standards, including ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 standards. Our innovative products have the chance to change your applications for the better and improve your current and future applications. We operate with a core system of values that ensures 100% customer satisfaction. To get started, reach out today!

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