Posted on

What are some best practices for handling instrumentation tubing?

Here are some best practices for handling instrumentation tubing:

  1. Use the appropriate tools: To avoid damage to the tubing, it is important to use the appropriate tools for handling and installation. This may include specialized tubing benders, cutters, and flaring tools.
  2. Avoid excessive bending: Instrumentation tubing is typically designed to withstand a certain amount of bending without cracking or deforming. However, excessive bending can cause the tubing to fail. To avoid this, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for minimum bending radius and maximum bend angles.
  3. Protect the tubing during storage and transport: Instrumentation tubing should be stored and transported in a way that protects it from damage. This may include using protective caps to cover the ends of the tubing, using cushioning material to prevent damage from impacts, and storing the tubing in a dry, climate-controlled environment.
  4. Clean the tubing before installation: To ensure proper installation and prevent contamination of the system, it is important to clean the tubing before installation. Use a lint-free cloth and a suitable cleaning solution to remove any dirt, debris, or residual manufacturing oils.
  5. Use appropriate fittings: Instrumentation tubing requires specialized fittings that are designed to maintain a leak-tight seal and withstand the pressures and temperatures of the application. Use only fittings that are designed and approved for use with the specific tubing material and size.

By following these best practices for handling instrumentation tubing, you can ensure that the tubing remains in good condition and performs reliably over its service life.

Posted on

What is the best way to package small OD tubing?

The best way to package small OD (outside diameter) stainless tubing for shipment depends on several factors, such as the length of the tubing, the quantity being shipped, and the mode of transportation. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Protect the tubing ends: Use plastic caps to protect the ends of the tubing from damage during transportation.
  2. Bundle the tubing: Bundle the tubing together in small groups, using rubber bands or plastic ties to hold them together.
  3. Wrap the tubing: Wrap the bundles of tubing in bubble wrap or foam padding to protect them from scratches and dings.
  4. Choose appropriate packaging: Choose a sturdy box or shipping container that can withstand the weight and rigors of transportation. Use packing peanuts, air pillows, or other cushioning materials to fill any gaps between the tubing and the container walls.
  5. Label the package: Clearly label the package with the contents, quantity, and any handling instructions, such as “fragile” or “handle with care.”
  6. Consider temperature control: If the tubing is being shipped in extreme temperatures, such as during winter or summer months, consider using insulated packaging or temperature-controlled transport to prevent damage to the tubing.

It is important to ensure that the tubing is packaged securely and handled with care during transportation to prevent damage or bending, which could lead to work hardening or other defects in the tubing. If you have any doubts about the packaging or shipping methods for your specific application, it is always a good idea to consult with your shipping or packaging provider for guidance.

Posted on

Can tubing be work hardened during transportation?

It is unlikely that a metal tube would experience significant work hardening during transportation, unless it is subjected to significant mechanical stress or deformation during transit.

The level of stress that a tube experiences during transportation depends on a number of factors, such as the method of transport, the handling procedures, and the type of packaging used. If the tube is packaged securely and handled properly, it is unlikely to be subjected to significant mechanical stress or deformation that would cause work hardening.

However, if the tube is mishandled or dropped during transportation, it could experience deformation and potentially work hardening. In addition, if the tube is transported in a way that exposes it to vibration, bending, or twisting, it could also experience work hardening.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that tubes are properly packaged, handled, and transported to minimize the risk of deformation and work hardening. If there are any concerns about the potential for work hardening during transportation, it may be advisable to use specialized packaging or shipping methods to protect the tubes from damage.