Silicone Hose Resistant

In What Element Is Silicone Hose Resistant

Silicone hose is highly thermal resistant which makes it ideal for industrial applications that involve high temperatures. It becomes popular because it can survive in all kinds of harsh conditions ranging from sunlight, ozone, rainfall, and even snowfall. Although it is durable and heat resistant, the question is, “Is silicone hose fuel resistant?”

No, silicone hoses are not fuel resistant. They are porous, and any porous material isn’t suitable for oil-based substances such as fuel. For this purpose, manufacturers have designed Fluro silicone liners that make silicone pipes ideal for fuel-related applications. The liners are built to stop oil from penetrating the wall. 

However, it is recommended not to use these liners for heavy fuel filling. Let’s take a closer look at why silicone hoses cannot be used for oil-based substances and whether Fluro silicone liners are ideal for the job! In this article, we will also provide you with alternatives you can use. 

Why is Silicone the Worst Choice for Oil-related Tasks? 

Is silicone hose gasoline resistant?” This is a common question that people have asked us. 

Silicone’s molecular structure makes it heat and pressure-resistant. The material can withstand temperatures as high as 350 F. Thanks to its inert structure, it can be used for a variety of manufacturing processes. It is a suitable material for engine coolant and even baby food production! 

On the other hand, when silicone interacts with oil, its molecular structure falls apart. This makes it the worst choice for processes involving oil. 

Fuel, diesel, high octane oils, etc. act as solvents, causing the interior of the pipe to dissolve gradually. 

If you are still questioning why silicone is the worst material for processes involving oil, take the example of a cardboard pipe and water. The cardboard pipe will eventually deteriorate because of the water. 

The same thing happens to a silicone pipe when in contact with oil. Silicone hoses would behave similarly to most acids and dilute sodium hydroxide solution. 

Is Silicone Heater Hose Oil Resistant?

Silicone is a porous material. This causes any oil-based substance, whether it is fuel or diesel, to penetrate its walls. Consequently, the pipe may degrade on the inside. 

Silicone heater hoses are not resistant to oil. But using Fluro silicone liners may help overcome this problem. However, the liners are not suitable for tasks involving a heavy volume of fuel. 

How to Choose the Best Fluro Silicone Liners: 

When looking for high-quality Fluro silicone liners, you must watch out for diluted versions of the material. Because Fluro silicone is an expensive material, several brands dilute it with large volumes of fillers. This results in a decreased resistance to oil. 

Remember to look for the highest concentration of Fluro silicone, preferably 80/20. This will offer the most resistance to oil-based substances.

But why is Fluro silicone resistant to oil? If you look at its chemical structure, you will find that it is not only resistant to synthetic oils, but also performs wonderfully against fuel vapor, hydrocarbons, and even mineral-based hydraulic fluids. 

What Can I Use Instead? 

If you’re wondering what you can use for fuel-related tasks instead of silicone, here are some options: 

  1. Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

Also known as Nitrile-Butadiene rubber, the material is well known for its oil-resistance properties. It is commonly used to manufacture fuel hoses, rollers, and other products that commonly deal with oil-based substances. 

If you are in search of products made from NBR, here are some options that you must consider:

  • Rubber fuel hose: 

Don’t forget to look for rubber fuel hoses that comply with SV regulations. 

  • Fuel filler hose: 

These hoses are commonly lined with nitrile rubber which makes them highly resistant to oil. However, it is recommended not to use fuel filler hoses with high octane fuels. 

  • Stainless steel braided hoses:

Stainless steel braided hoses are ideal for high pressures of oil. They are known for their endurance and strength, and their high resistance to oil. 

  1. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PFTE)

The material is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals making it an ideal choice for chemical applications and multiproduct applications. It prevents the diffusion of automotive fuels, unlike other rubbers and plastics. 

Because of its pressure ratings and high resistance to corrosive chemicals, it is used for brake and clutch lines. 

FAQs: Is Silicone Hose Resistant

Q1: What chemicals are silicone hoses resistant to?

Silicone may not be resistant to fuels, but it provides strong resistance to the following materials:

  • Natural gas
  • Vegetable oil
  • Citric acid
  • Potassium chloride
  • Zinc salts
  • Heavy water
  • Ethylene glycol
  • Methanol (3 moles) 

This makes silicone hoses suitable for most manufacturing processes except for ones that involve oil-based substances. 

Q2: Is silicone hose brake fluid resistant?

Silicone hoses are compatible with brake fluid. This is because brake fluid is made from glycol-ether. Other materials such as EPDM are better options if you’re going to use the hose for the long term. 

Q3: Is silicone hose diesel resistant?

As mentioned above, any oil-based substance will cause the silicone to dissolve. This means silicone cannot be used with diesel.

Q4: Can I use silicone hoses in extreme temperatures?

Extremely cold temperatures may cause standard rubber hoses to stiffen. However, silicone hoses can withstand temperatures up to -65 degrees Fahrenheit. 

This means they are well suited for use in extremely cold regions or manufacturing processes that involve low temperatures. 

Silicone is also highly heat resistant. The material can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for a variety of industrial applications that involve extreme temperatures. 

Conclusion: 

The bottom line is silicone is the worst material you can use with oil-based constituents! This is because of its molecular structure. 

Although it is highly heat resistant and has a long lifespan, it cannot be used with oily chemicals that may cause it to dissolve and deteriorate. 

We hope we answered your questions regarding silicone hoses and their applications. Don’t forget to share this article with those who could benefit from the information provided!

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