Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyurethane (PU / PUR) |
| Outer diameter (OD) | 8.0 mm |
| Inner diameter (ID) | 5.0 mm |
| Wall thickness | 1.5 mm |
| Working pressure (+23°C) | up to 12–15 bar |
| Burst pressure | ~45 bar |
| Operating temperature | −40 … +60 °C (briefly up to +70 °C) |
| Minimum bend radius | ~30–32 mm (≈4 × OD) |
| Hardness | 80–98 Shore A |
| Tensile strength | 40–55 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 350–450% |
| Key traits | High flexibility, good abrasion resistance |
Advantages and Strengths
The 8×5 mm polyurethane tube is the gold standard for most pneumatic systems thanks to the following characteristics:
- Exceptional flexibility and small bend radius — easily routed through complex layouts, ideal for moving parts and robotic assemblies.
- High abrasion resistance — withstands wear excellently under frequent movement and surface contact.
- Fast installation — works excellently with push-in quick-connect fittings (PC, POC, PL and equivalents) for 8 mm.
- Good price/performance ratio — affordable cost with high operational performance for standard conditions.
- Retains elasticity in cold — stays flexible at sub-zero temperatures without cracking.
Compared to stiffer materials (PA, PTFE), polyurethane is significantly easier to install and operate in dynamic systems.
Applications
The 8×5 mm polyurethane tube is indispensable in the following industries:
- Industrial pneumatic automation and robotics
- Assembly and conveyor lines
- Auto repair shops, tire service and pneumatic tools
- Machine building and machine tools
- Control of pneumatic valves and actuators
- Logistics systems and packaging equipment
💡 Additional PU tube applications: air brake systems for heavy commercial vehicles (specialised series to DOT FMVSS 571.106 standard), construction sites for supplying air to pneumatic tools, twin hoses for spray painting (Twin Paint Hose — one line carries air, the second carries paint material to the spray gun), welding areas (two-layer anti-spark tubing resistant to weld spatter), as well as agricultural and food industry applications.
Expert Opinion
“The 8×5 mm polyurethane tube is the most universal and popular choice for 70–80% of standard pneumatic systems. Its main strengths are outstanding flexibility and abrasion resistance. The material performs excellently in dynamic applications, but is not recommended for aggressive chemicals, high temperatures (>60°C), or constant contact with water (hydrolysis). With the right fittings and pressure compliance, it lasts for many years.”
Vitali Bolucevschi, Lead Expert Engineer, 15 years in the pneumatic equipment industry
Comparing Polyurethane (PU) and Nylon (PA12) Tubes
Polyurethane tube (PU) and nylon tube PA12 are the two most popular materials for pneumatic systems. They differ significantly in properties, so the choice depends on the operating conditions.
| Parameter | PU (Polyurethane) | PA12 (Nylon 12) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Excellent (very soft) | Medium (rigid) | PU |
| Minimum bend radius | ~30–32 mm | ~80 mm | PU |
| Working pressure (+23°C) | 12–15 bar | 20–25 bar | PA12 |
| Operating temperature | −40…+60°C | −40…+100°C | PA12 |
| Chemical resistance | Good with oils, poor with water | Good with oils, fuel, hydraulics | PA12 |
| UV resistance | Poor | Good (especially black) | PA12 |
| Moisture absorption | Low | Very low (~0.25%) | PA12 |
| Abrasion resistance | Excellent | Good | PU |
| Dimensional stability | Medium (slightly “breathes” under pressure) | High | PA12 |
| Routing in tight spaces | Very easy | Requires more space | PU |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive than PU | PU |
When to Choose Polyurethane (PU) Tube
Choose PU if: you need maximum flexibility and a small bend radius (moving mechanisms, robotics, manipulators); the tube is subject to frequent bending and friction; operating temperature does not exceed +60°C; the primary medium is clean compressed air; low price and easy installation matter.
PU weaknesses: limited temperature range, poor UV resistance, reduced strength at high pressure and hot air.
When to Choose Nylon (PA12) Tube
Choose PA12 if: high working pressure is required; operating temperature exceeds 60°C; the tube works with oils, fuel or hydraulic fluids; installation is outdoors or under direct sunlight; dimensional stability and minimal expansion under pressure are needed; durability in industrial conditions matters more than flexibility.
PA12 weaknesses: stiffer (harder to route in very tight spaces), larger minimum bend radius.
“PU is the number one choice for dynamic systems and moving parts, where high flexibility and abrasion resistance are needed. PA12 wins everywhere pressure, temperature, oil or external exposure are present. In 70% of standard stationary pneumatic systems I recommend PA12 specifically — it lasts noticeably longer. PU is ideal for robotics and frequently flexed routing.”
Vitali Bolucevschi, Lead Expert Engineer
Quick Recommendations
- Dynamic systems, robotics, frequent movement → PU 8×5 mm
- High pressure, oil, temperature, outdoors → PA12 10×7.5 mm
- General-purpose stationary plant pneumatics → PA12 (more durable choice)
- Budget option for clean air → PU
Why Acvatron SRL
In Stock at the Chișinău Warehouse
Polyurethane tube 8×5 mm and other standard sizes are permanently in stock. Collect on the day of payment.
Full Range of Pneumatic Tubing
Acvatron SRL supplies PU, PA, PE and other tube types, plus compatible push-in fittings — everything for assembling your pneumatic system in one place.
Engineering Advice
Not sure between PU and PA12? Describe your operating conditions (pressure, temperature, medium) — the Acvatron SRL engineer helps you select the right material and tube diameter.
Documents for Legal Entities
Invoice and contract for businesses and organisations.
FAQ
❓ What is the maximum working pressure of the 8×5 mm tube?
At +23°C — up to 12–15 bar. Working pressure must be reduced as temperature rises. Burst pressure is approximately 45 bar.
❓ Can the polyurethane tube be used outdoors?
For short periods — yes, but the material has poor UV resistance. For prolonged sun exposure, black colour or protection from direct sunlight is recommended.
❓ Is the tube compatible with standard push-in fittings?
It is excellently compatible with one-touch fittings for 8 mm (collet clamp). Quality brass or composite fittings are recommended.
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