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Extruded Plastic Profile Shapes

The choice of plastic profile shapes plays a significant role in various industries due to their versatility and functionality. The ability to create specific profile shapes offers several advantages including:

• Versatility in Meeting Specific Design Requirements
  • Extruded plastic profiles can be customized to meet precise design specifications, allowing manufacturers to create components that fit unique applications. This versatility enables the production of products with complex geometries and tailored functionalities.
• Enhancing Structural Integrity and Functionality
  • Different profile shapes provide varying degrees of structural support, load-bearing capacity, and functional features. By selecting the appropriate profile shape, manufacturers can optimize the end product’s strength, stability, and performance.

Extruded plastic can take various shapes. We examine these shapes, their applications, strengths, and weaknesses below.

Square Tubing

Square tubing refers to extruded plastic profiles with a square cross-section. They have four equal sides and delete 90-degree corners.

Square tubing finds applications in various industries, including construction, furniture manufacturing, and automotive. It is commonly used for frameworks, supports, structural components, and as a base for assembling modular systems.

Square tubing offers excellent torsional strength and structural stability. It is easy to join, providing versatility in assembly. However, it may have limitations in accommodating curved or rounded features.

Rectangular Plastic Tubing

Rectangular plastic tubing features a rectangular cross-section with unequal sides and sharp 90-degree corners.

Rectangular plastic tubing is widely used in the construction, architecture, and signage industries. It is commonly utilized for window and door frames, sign frames, display structures, and shelving systems.

Rectangular tubing offers high strength and rigidity, making it suitable for possible load-bearing applications. It provides a flat surface for mounting accessories and attachments. However, it may have limitations in applications requiring curved or rounded profiles.

Stock Square Extruded Plastic Profiles

Stock square extruded plastic profiles are readily available profiles with a square cross-section. They are produced in standard sizes and are commonly stocked by manufacturers or suppliers.

Stock square profiles are versatile and find applications in various industries. They are utilized for framework construction, support structures, enclosures, and general-purpose applications that require the strength and stability of a square shape.

Stock square profiles offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, as they are readily available in standard sizes and can be easily sourced from suppliers. They provide a reliable solution for applications that do not require custom-designed profiles. However, they can be limited in design flexibility and surface finished options and can be restricted in the material choice.

Stock J-Shaped Extruded Plastic Profiles

Stock J-shaped extruded plastic profiles have a cross-section resembling the letter “J.” They have a curved or rounded outer edge and a straight back.

Stock J-shaped profiles are commonly used for edge protection, decorative trims, and sealing applications. Their shape allows for easy installation and enhances the aesthetics and safety of the end product.

Stock J-shaped profiles are readily available from manufacturers and suppliers. They come in various sizes, colors, and materials to accommodate application requirements. However, they can be limited in size options and there can be some design restrictions.

Stock U-Channel Extruded Plastic Profiles

Stock U-channel extruded plastic profiles have a U-shaped cross-section with two parallel sides and an open side. They are often referred to as U-channels or U-sections.

U-channel profiles are widely used for edge protection, sealing, and retaining applications. They are commonly employed as glazing seals, protective trim, or a channel for holding panels or inserts.

Stock U-channel profiles are available in different materials, sizes, and colors. Manufacturers and suppliers offer a range of options to meet specific application needs, and customizations can also be made if required. However, they can be limited in design restrictions and potential surface finishes.

Stock Angle Extruded Plastic Profiles

Stock angle extruded plastic profiles have an L-shaped cross-section, with two perpendicular sides forming a 90-degree angle.

Stock angle profiles are utilized for corner protection, edge trimming, and structural reinforcement. They are commonly employed in furniture manufacturing, construction, and architectural applications.

Stock angle profiles are available in various sizes, materials, and finishes. They offer versatility in applications requiring corner protection, panels joining, or reinforcing structural elements. However, they can have availability challenges.

Z-Shaped Extruded Plastic Profiles

Z-shaped extruded plastic profiles have a cross-section resembling the letter “Z.” They consist of two parallel lines connected by diagonal sections.

Z-shaped profiles are commonly used for weather-stripping, gasketing, or edge trim. They provide a secure seal against moisture, air, and dust, making them ideal for applications where weather resistance is crucial.

Z-shaped profiles can be found in stock options offered by manufacturers and suppliers. They can also be customized to meet specific requirements, such as different dimensions or materials. However, they may be faced with design restrictions.

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Introduction

Acrylic tubing, or plexiglass tubing, is a type of tubing made from a transparent thermoplastic material called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It can be easily fabricated into various shapes and sizes, allowing for customization to meet specific requirements. Due to this versatility and other beneficial properties, it is widely used in various industries including manufacturing, construction, and transportation, and has become popular and continues to become more popular   

 

In this article, we will discuss the advantages of acrylic tubing, various types of acrylic tubing, the manufacturing process of acrylic tubing, applications of acrylic tubing, and how to care for your acrylic tubing products.

Advantages of Acrylic Tubing

As noted, acrylic tubing is a versatile material that has become increasingly popular in various industries due to its numerous advantages it provides over other materials. In this section, we will explore the benefits of using acrylic tubing, including its lightweight and durable nature, high clarity, chemical resistance, ease of workability, UV resistance, cost-effectiveness, and safety. By understanding the advantages of acrylic tubing; it becomes clear why it has become a preferred material in applications ranging from aquariums and displays to laboratory equipment and outdoor signage.

Lightweight and Durable

One of the primary advantages of acrylic tubing is its exceptional combination of lightweight and durability. Acrylic is a significantly light material, making it easy to handle, transport and install. This lightweight nature reduces the strain on structures and supports, allowing for more versatile design possibilities. Despite its lightweight properties, acrylic tubing is remarkably durable and can withstand impacts and shocks that shatter glass. This durability makes it ideal for applications where safety and longevity are crucial.

High Clarity

Acrylic tubing offers a high level of clarity that is comparable to glass. This makes it an ideal material for use in applications where visibility is important, such as in display cases or aquariums. Its transparency also means that it can be used as a substitute for glass in some applications such as medical and lab equipment, lighting fixtures, and more, as it offers similar optical properties at a lower cost. Additionally, acrylic tubing is resistant to scratches and other damage types, which helps maintain its clarity over time.

Chemical Resistance

Acrylic tubing is highly resistant to various chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and solvents. This makes it an ideal material for use in harsh chemical environments, such as laboratories or chemical processing facilities. Its resistance to chemicals also means that it can be used in outdoor applications where exposure to environmental factors is a concern, such as in outdoor signs or lighting fixtures.

Easy to Work With

Acrylic tubing is a very malleable material that is easy to work with. It can be easily cut, drilled, and machined using standard tools, allowing customization to meet specific requirements. Its ease of workability also makes it a great material for prototyping and experimentation, as adjustments can be made quickly and easily. Additionally, acrylic tubing can be easily formed into various shapes, making it a great choice for applications that require complex geometries.

UV Resistant

Acrylic tubing is highly resistant to UV radiation, which makes it ideal for outdoor applications. Unlike other plastics, acrylic tubing will not turn yellow or become brittle over time when exposed to sunlight. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor displays, signage, and automotive headlights. Additionally, its UV resistance means that it can be used in applications where exposure to UV radiation is a concern, such as in medical devices or scientific instruments.

Cost-Effective

Acrylic tubing is generally less expensive than glass or metal tubing, which makes it a cost-effective option for many applications. Its lower cost and other advantages make it an attractive alternative to other materials for a wide range of industries. Its cost-effectiveness also means it can be used in applications where cost is a concern without sacrificing quality. Additionally, acrylic tubing’s durability and resistance to damage mean that it can last longer than other materials like glass, metal, or PVC, further reducing costs over time.

Safer Than Glass

Acrylic tubing is a shatter-resistant material that is safer than glass. If it does break, it will not shatter into dangerous shards like glass, making it a great option for applications where safety is a concern, such as in schools or hospitals. Additionally, its shatter-resistant properties mean that it can be used when glass is not a viable option, such as in public spaces or homes with children. Its safety benefits also make it a great choice for outdoor applications where extreme weather conditions or accidental impact can occur.

Manufacturing Process of Acrylic Tubing

Acrylic tubing is made through a manufacturing process that involves several steps. This section will explore the different techniques used to manufacture acrylic tubing.

1. Polymerization

The first step in manufacturing acrylic tubing is polymerization. This involves combining a monomer, usually methyl methacrylate, with a catalyst and an initiator to form a polymer. The polymerization process can be initiated through several methods, including heat, radiation, or chemical reactions.

1. Extrusion or Casting

After polymerization, the acrylic resin is extruded or cast into the desired shape. Extrusion involves forcing the acrylic resin through a die, resulting in a continuous length of tubing with a consistent diameter. This process is commonly used for extruded acrylic tubing. Casting involves pouring liquid resin into a mold and allowing it to cure, resulting in solid tubing with a consistent diameter. This process is commonly used for cast acrylic tubing.

1. Cell Casting

Cell casting, also known as cell cast acrylic or simply casting, is a manufacturing process used to produce acrylic sheets or blocks. It is a method that involves pouring liquid acrylic resin into a mold or between glass plates and allowing it to cure and solidify into a solid acrylic product.

1. Annealing

After the tubing is formed, it undergoes a process called annealing. This involves heating the tubing to a specific temperature and then slowly cooling it down to relieve any internal stresses that may have occurred during the manufacturing process. Annealing helps to increase the strength and durability of acrylic tubing.

1. Cutting and Finishing

After annealing, the acrylic tubing is cut to the desired length and finished to the desired specifications. This can include polishing, drilling, and bending the tubing into various shapes.

 

In conclusion, acrylic tubing is made through a manufacturing process that involves several steps, including polymerization, extrusion or casting, cell casting, annealing, and cutting and finishing. In addition, large-diameter acrylic tubing is typically produced using cell casting. Understanding the manufacturing process of acrylic tubing can help you choose the right material and manufacturing technique for a specific project.

Types of Acrylic Tubing

Several types of acrylic tubing are available, each with unique properties and applications. This section will explore the different types of acrylic tubing and their uses.

Large Diameter Acrylic Tubing

Large-diameter acrylic tubing is available in sizes up to 24 inches, making it a great choice for applications requiring a larger diameter than standard tubing. It is often used in architectural installations and industrial applications where large volumes of fluid or gasses need to be transported. 

 

Large-diameter acrylic tubing is used in various applications, including architectural installations, such as in building facades and skylights. It is also used in industrial applications where large volumes of fluid or gasses need to be transported, such as in chemical processing and water treatment facilities. In addition, large-diameter acrylic tubing is used in aquariums and zoos for underwater viewing tunnels and large display tanks.

Extruded Acrylic Tubing

Extruded acrylic tubing is a cost-effective option widely used in various industries. It is made by forcing acrylic resin through a die, resulting in a continuous length of tubing with a consistent diameter. Extruded acrylic tubing is lightweight and easy to work with, making it an excellent choice for applications requiring customization. It is often used in displays, lighting fixtures, and other applications where clarity and durability are important.

Cast Acrylic Tubing

Cast acrylic tubing is a premium option that offers superior optical clarity and a higher chemical resistance level than extruded acrylic tubing. It is made by pouring liquid acrylic resin into a mold and allowing it to cure, resulting in solid tubing with a consistent diameter. Cast acrylic tubing is often used in medical and laboratory applications, as well as in aquariums and other applications where high visibility is required.

Differences Between Extruded and Cast Acrylic Tubing

The main difference between extruded and cast acrylic tubing is the manufacturing process. Extruded acrylic tubing is made by forcing resin through a die, resulting in a consistent diameter and wall thickness. Cast acrylic tubing is made by pouring liquid resin into a mold and allowing it to cure, resulting in solid tubing with a consistent diameter and wall thickness.

 

Cast acrylic tubing offers superior optical clarity and a higher chemical resistance level than extruded acrylic tubing. However, it is also more expensive than extruded acrylic tubing. On the other hand, extruded acrylic tubing is cost-effective, lightweight, and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for various applications.

Applications of Acrylic Tubing

Acrylic tubing has a wide range of applications in various industries. In this section, we will explore some of the industries that use acrylic tubing and the specific applications for acrylic tubing in each industry.

Architecture and Construction

Acrylic tubing is used in architecture and construction for skylights, roofing, and canopies. Its high transparency, UV, and impact resistance make it an ideal choice for these applications. 

Lighting

Acrylic tubing is widely used in lighting for fixtures and displays. Its excellent optical clarity allows maximum light transmission, and its ability to be easily shaped and bent makes it ideal for custom lighting designs. 

Medical and Healthcare

Acrylic tubing is used in medical and healthcare applications such as surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, and displays. Its high optical clarity and biocompatibility make it an ideal choice for these applications. 

Industrial and Manufacturing

Acrylic tubing is used in various industrial and manufacturing applications such as sight glasses, flow meters, and chemical processing equipment. Its excellent chemical, UV, and impact resistance make it an ideal choice for these applications. 

Aquariums and Zoos

Acrylic tubing is widely used in aquariums and zoos for applications such as viewing tunnels and underwater exhibits. It’s high optical clarity and impact resistance make it an ideal choice for these applications.

Maintenance and Care of Acrylic Tubing Products

Products made from acrylic tubing require specific care to keep them in good condition. Here are some guidelines for maintaining items made from acrylic tubing by keeping them clean, protected from scratches and UV rays, and by properly storing and inspecting them. 

Cleaning

Use a Mild Soap or Acrylic Cleaner

Avoid harsh chemicals, ammonia-based cleaners, or abrasive substances, as they can damage the acrylic surface. Instead, opt for a mild soap or specialized acrylic cleaner. Always check the product instructions before using any cleaner.

Soft Cloth or Sponge

Gently wipe the surface of products made from acrylic tubing with a soft cloth or sponge soaked in the cleaning solution. Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as it can cause scratches.

Rinse Thoroughly

After cleaning, rinse any item made from acrylic tubing with clean water to remove any soap residue. Soap residue left on the surface can contribute to cloudiness.

Pat Dry

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to pat dry products made from acrylic tubing. Avoid wiping in circular motions, as it can create swirl marks.

Scratch Prevention

Avoid contact with rough or sharp objects that can scratch the surface when handling products made from acrylic tubing. Be gentle during installation, moving, or any other product manipulation.

UV Protection

Acrylic can be susceptible to yellowing or fading when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight. Keep items made from acrylic tubing away from direct sunlight or use UV-blocking coatings or films for protection if possible.

Storage

When not in use, store items made from acrylic tubing in a clean and dry environment, away from excessive heat, humidity, or any potential sources of damage. Avoid stacking or placing heavy objects on these items to prevent deformation.

Periodic Inspection

Inspect products made from acrylic tubing periodically for any signs of cracks, scratches, or discoloration. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. You can use acrylic adhesive or cement specifically designed for bonding acrylic materials for small cracks. Minor surface scratches can often be buffed using specialized acrylic scratch removers or polishes. Discoloration from UV exposure or chemical reactions may be reduced by using specialized acrylic or mild abrasive cleaners. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and gently work on the discolored areas using a soft cloth or sponge.

 

Following these maintenance tips can help preserve the clarity, integrity, and appearance of acrylic tubing products over time.

Acrylic Tubing: Final Thoughts

Acrylic tubing is a versatile and popular material used in various industries due to its numerous advantages. Its optical clarity, durability, lightweight, and ease of fabrication make it an attractive choice for a wide range of applications.

 

The popularity of acrylic tubing is expected to continue to rise as more industries discover its benefits. From medical and scientific applications to creative displays and architectural designs, acrylic tubing has proven to be a reliable and flexible material.

About Petro Extrusions

Petro Extrusion Technologies parent company founded in 1955, has been family owned and operated since. Petro has become a leading NJ based manufacturer of custom and stock plastic tubing and profiles both here in the US and worldwide.  Supplying industries like aerospace, medical, lighting, construction, military and packaging, Petro’s innovative approach to provide solutions to customer needs in a cost-effective and expeditious manner makes it the first choice of many global industry leaders.  Some of those include Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, Collins Aerospace, SpaceX, Caterpillar, Eaton, Phillips and Cooper-Crouse.

 

Despite the long list of global industry leaders, Petro Extrusion Technologies prides itself on treating every customer with the same quality, attention and affordability.  From the inventor to the most sophisticated corporate structure, Petro has been and will continue to be an integral partner with all customers. With its in house Engineering and Design team, along with a superior Quality System and award-winning Production Team, Petro is here to service all sectors of the economy with a wide variety of thermoplastic materials to satisfy countless markets and needs.

 

For more information about our products and services please contact us below. 

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Introduction

Nylon tubing is a type of plastic tubing made from nylon polymers using extrusion. Nylon was first developed in the 1930s by the DuPont Company as a replacement for silk in stockings. However, its unique properties, such as high tensile strength and chemical resistance, made it a popular material for many other applications.

The development of nylon tubing followed shortly after the invention of nylon itself, and it was first used in the automotive industry for fuel lines and brake lines in the 1940s. Nylon tubing quickly gained popularity due to its excellent chemical resistance, pressure rating, and durability.

Over time, nylon tubing has been developed and improved to meet the changing needs of various industries. In addition, new formulations of nylon have been created to enhance its properties, such as increasing flexibility and reducing water absorption.

Nylon tubing remains popular for many applications across industries, from automotive and industrial manufacturing to medical equipment and aerospace engineering.

This article will explore the properties, applications, and the limitations of nylon tubing. By understanding the features of this material, readers can determine whether it is suitable for their specific applications and needs.

Properties of Nylon Tubing

Nylon tubing has several unique properties that make it a popular choice for various applications. These properties include chemical resistance, temperature resistance, abrasion resistance, pressure rating, and flexibility.

• Chemical Resistance: Nylon tubing is resistant to various chemicals, including oils, fuels, acids, and solvents. This makes it suitable for use in applications where exposure to these chemicals is common.
• Temperature Resistance: Nylon tubing has a temperature range of -40°C to 120°C (-40°F to 248°F), making it suitable for use in a variety of temperature environments.
• Abrasion Resistance: Nylon tubing is highly resistant to abrasion, making it suitable for use in applications where it may be exposed to rubbing or scraping.
• Pressure Rating: Nylon tubing is high-pressure, making it suitable for pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Flexibility: Nylon tubing is flexible and easy to handle, making it suitable for applications requiring flexibility.

Understanding the properties of nylon tubing is important when selecting the appropriate material for a specific application. By considering the chemical resistance, temperature resistance, abrasion resistance, pressure rating, and flexibility users can select the best type of nylon tubing for their particular needs.

Types of Nylon Tubing

Nylon tubing is available in two primary forms: extruded and cast nylon tubing. Each type has unique characteristics and is suitable for different applications.

Extruded Nylon Tubing

Extruded nylon tubing is formed by melting nylon pellets and forcing the molten material through a die to create a tube shape. The process is typically fast and cost-effective, making extruded nylon tubing a popular choice for many applications. Some features and advantages of extruded nylon tubing include the following:

• Manufacturing Process: The extrusion involves melting nylon pellets and forcing the molten material through a die to create a tube shape. The tubing is then cooled and cut to the desired length.
• Features and Advantages: Extruded nylon tubing is lightweight, flexible, and easy to handle. It is also resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and impact, making it suitable for harsh environments. It has good dimensional stability and can easily form various shapes and sizes. Extruded nylon tubing has a high-pressure rating, making it suitable for pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Applications: Extruded nylon tubing is commonly used in various industries, including automotive, industrial manufacturing, medical equipment, and aerospace engineering. It is often used as a conduit for fluids, gasses, and air, as well as in electrical and electronic applications.

Cast Nylon Tubing

Cast nylon tubing is plastic tubing made from nylon polymers using casting. It is made by pouring molten nylon into a mold, allowing it to cool and solidify. The process is typically slower and more expensive than extrusion, resulting in a more uniform and higher-quality product. Some features and advantages of cast nylon tubing include the following:

• Features and Advantages: Cast nylon tubing has excellent dimensional stability and a uniform wall thickness, making it suitable for precision applications. It is also resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and impact, making it ideal for harsh environments. Cast nylon tubing has a high load-bearing capacity, making it suitable for bearings and bushings.
• Applications: Cast nylon tubing is commonly used in the food and beverage industry, as well as in industrial manufacturing, medical equipment, and aerospace engineering. It is often used in applications requiring high precision and load-bearing capacity.

Limitations of Nylon Tubing

Although nylon tubing has many advantages there are also many limitations that should be considered when selecting nylon tubing for a specific application.

• UV Resistance: Nylon tubing has low UV resistance, which means this material may degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. This makes it less suitable for outdoor applications.
• Water Absorption: Nylon tubing can absorb water, affecting its properties and performance. This can be a disadvantage in applications where water absorption is not desired.
• Flammability: Nylon tubing is flammable, which can be a disadvantage in applications where it may be exposed to heat or flame.
• Cost: Nylon tubing can be more expensive than other plastic tubing materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It can also be more expensive than some metal tubing materials like copper and aluminum. However, the cost of tubing materials can vary depending on factors such as availability, manufacturing process, and application requirements.

Understanding the limitations of nylon tubing is important when selecting the appropriate material for a specific application. Considering these factors, users can determine whether nylon tubing is the best choice.

Applications of Nylon Tubing

Nylon tubing is used in many applications across many industries due to its unique properties and versatility. Some common applications of nylon tubing include:

• Pneumatics and Hydraulics
  • Nylon tubing is commonly used in pneumatics and hydraulics for air and fluid transfer, especially in automated equipment and machinery. Its high-pressure rating, resistance to kinking and crushing, and good flexibility make it ideal for these applications. Nylon tubing is also resistant to oils, solvents, and chemicals commonly used in hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Automotive
  • Nylon tubing is used extensively in the automotive industry for fuel, brake, and other applications due to its heat, chemical, and abrasion resistance. Nylon tubing is also lightweight, making it a popular choice for reducing vehicle weight, which improves fuel efficiency.
• Industrial Manufacturing
  • Due to its chemical resistance, durability, and flexibility, nylon tubing is used in various industrial manufacturing applications, such as conveyors, fluid transfer systems, and chemical processing. Nylon tubing is also used in applications where abrasion resistance is important, such as material handling and processing.
• Medical Equipment
  • Nylon tubing is widely used in medical equipment such as catheters, IV sets, and other devices due to its flexibility, biocompatibility, and low toxicity. In addition, nylon tubing is resistant to many chemicals and disinfectants, making it suitable for healthcare settings.
• Aerospace Engineering
  • Nylon tubing is used in aircraft such as fuel, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems due to its lightweight, high strength, and chemical resistance. It can also withstand a wide range of temperatures and pressures, making it a popular choice for aerospace applications.
• Food and Beverage
  • Nylon tubing is used in food and beverage processing equipment due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and chemical resistance. It is commonly used for fluid transfer and is approved by the FDA for use in food contact applications.
• Robotics and Automation
  • Nylon tubing is used in robotics and automation systems due to its flexibility and ability to withstand high pressures and temperatures. It is commonly used for air and fluid transfer, such as in pneumatic and hydraulic actuators.
• Electrical and Electronic Systems
  • Nylon tubing is used in electrical and electronic systems as a protective sleeve for wires and cables due to its insulating properties and flexibility. It also protects against abrasion, vibration, and other mechanical stresses.

Overall, nylon tubing is versatile in various applications across many industries. Its unique properties and characteristics make it an excellent choice for applications requiring flexibility, chemical resistance, temperature range, pressure rating, and abrasion resistance.

Conclusion

Nylon tubing is a versatile material that offers a wide range of properties and characteristics, making it suitable for various applications across many industries. Its chemical resistance, temperature range, pressure rating, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and other unique properties make it an excellent choice for applications where these properties are required.

However, nylon tubing has some limitations, such as its low UV resistance, water absorption, flammability, and higher cost than other materials. Therefore, these factors should be carefully considered when selecting nylon tubing for a specific application.

Overall, nylon tubing is a reliable and durable material that has proven to be a popular choice for many applications. Its unique properties and versatility make it a valuable addition to many manufacturing or production processes, helping to improve performance and efficiency while reducing maintenance costs.

For more information on Petro Extrusions nylon tubing and channels, please visit our Nya-Glide page or contact us directly at 800-229-3338.

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