Advantages of Flexible PVC in Rigid Pipe Systems

The Super Bowl has us thinking about teamwork and how every player has a specific role to play to help the team perform its best, and win. 

Now entering the stadium: PVC tubing and PVC pipe – not rivals, but two different components that when teamed up, can make a product or system more efficient and effective, saving companies time and money.

Here are some advantages of PVC flexible tubing:

 

Advantage #1: easy routing, fewer connection points

Flexible tubing can go places rigid pipes cannot. It’s easy to route and install in small spaces, around corners, and up, over and back down surfaces while maintaining durability. Using flexible tubing, you can reduce connection points, which improves flow and decreases the risk of leaks in a system. 

One example is spa systems, like pools and hot tubs, that have various pumps and jets in tight spaces. Flexible PVC also works well in movable systems with variable connection points, such as robotic arms. 

Advantage #2: absorbs vibration

Because of its flexibility, PVC tubing can absorb vibrations, making for quieter plumbing and HVAC systems. Over time, vibrations and movement can compromise rigid pipes. In this case, flexible PVC helps protect the integrity of the overall system.

Advantage #3: clarity to monitor flow and cleanliness

PVC tubing is clear and transparent. This allows you to see the materials flowing through the system, easily identify blockages, air bubbles, or growth like mold or algae, and confirm the correct transfer of liquids. 

Advantage #4: conveys abrasive materials

PVC tubing is resistant to abrasion. It can convey abrasive materials like sand and powder over a longer time period than rigid pipe which can wear out faster. 

Advantage #5: customization

Customization is our specialty at Finger Lakes Extrusion. We love working with customers to help solve their unique challenges.

We recently worked with a respiratory device manufacturer to design a kink-resistant PVC tube that allowed them to eliminate rigid elbows. The result? Lower cost of assembly, improved sterilization, and better performance for the end user.

Flexible PVC for the win

We’re ready to help you integrate PVC tubing in your rigid pipe system. We offer several solutions, including a braided tube for high-pressure applications like wastewater treatment, and a variety of materials and formulations for chemical resistance. 

 

Let our team help your team!

Natalie LeGrett

Customer Account Specialist

Natalie is a 2011 graduate of St. John Fisher College with a bachelor’s degree in business management and concentration in Human Resources. After 14 years of working in the Staffing Industry as a Recruiter and other various roles she was looking to switch gears and start a new career path. She had ties with Erica as she assisted in staffing temporary staff to FLEX for years. She decided not to return to the corporate world after maternity leave and start at FLEX where she has been a Customer Account Specialist. She is passionate about her family and two sons who always keep her on her toes; we enjoy creating memories as a family and enjoying the sunshine every chance we get! 

Keith Ellsworth

Production Manager

Keith has been a member of our team since 2007. With a degree in Business and a minor in Computer Science along with decades of mechanical experience, Keith brings a great deal of knowledge to the company. Keith coordinates all production activities and works with customers to help develop products that fit their needs. After years of racing stock cars and taking his motorcycle to track days, this busy Dad of two treasures the days when he gets to ride his motorcycle to work.

Phil Scott

President of Operations

Phil has been a member of our team since 2009. Phil is a 2008 graduate of SUNY ESF with a degree in Conservation Biology. After gaining hands on experience on the extrusion lines during the summers of his college career, Phil decided that working at FLEX™ was better suited to him than a career in the environmental field. Phil handles all building and equipment maintenance and purchases. He is our resident outdoorsman, most passionate about white tail deer hunting and management.

Erica C. S. Wright

President of Sales

Erica is a 2006 graduate of SUNY Geneseo with a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Business Studies. After 4 years in Corporate America working as an actuary, she was looking for a change. Finger Lakes Extrusion offered her that change and in 2009 she made the switch. Erica handles all finance and human resource functions at Finger Lakes Extrusion along with sales travel and quoting. All of these functions guarantee that no day is the same – her favorite characteristic of the job. Triathlons and lake life with her family are Erica’s most treasured moments.