Stainless Steel Instrumentation Tubing
Instrumentation Tubes: Why Choice Matters
Many people assume that a tube is just a tube — that only its size and length matter. In reality, selecting the right hydraulic or instrumentation tube can be a critical decision.
The most important factor when choosing tubing is its compatibility with the media it will contain. Using the wrong tubing can increase the risk of leaks, accidents, and unplanned downtime, making correct selection essential for safety and reliability.
What Are Instrumentation Tubes?
Instrumentation tubes are used to connect pressure switches, gauges, flow monitors, and valves in industrial piping and ventilation systems. They are typically made from stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, or copper, as these materials combine good machinability with excellent corrosion resistance.
High corrosion resistance is especially important in harsh or corrosive environments, where the integrity, reliability, and safety of the tubing are critical.
Applications
Instrumentation tubes are widely used in industries where monitoring and control are crucial. For example:
- Nuclear power – Tubing encases equipment that monitors temperature, pressure, fuel burn-up, and density differences. Reliability and durability are essential in such extreme conditions.
- Chemical and petrochemical
- Power generation
- Oil and gas
- Automotive
- Military
- Hydraulics
- Process instrumentation and sensing
- Impulse lines
- Aviation
- Chemical inhibition systems
Sizes and Specifications
Instrumentation tubes are measured by outside diameter (OD) and are available in various sizes. The most common sizes are:
- 1/4”
- 3/8”
- 1/2”
They are used worldwide in many industries where precision, durability, and safety are paramount.
