Publish Time: 2025-07-07 Origin: Site
When choosing materials for industrial, commercial, or engineering applications, two common options often come up: nylon and acrylic. Each has its strengths and limitations, and the right choice depends largely on the specific requirements of your project. But when it comes to fluid transmission, pneumatic systems, chemical resistance, and mechanical flexibility, Nylon Tube frequently comes out on top.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the properties, performance data, and industrial relevance of both materials—especially in tube form—so you can make an informed decision.
Nylon is a family of synthetic polymers known as polyamides, widely used in manufacturing thanks to its outstanding strength, durability, and resistance to wear. In tubing applications, Nylon Tube offers high pressure resistance, excellent chemical compatibility, and superb flexibility.
Pneumatic control systems
Automotive fuel lines
Chemical fluid transfer
Robotics and automation
Food and beverage equipment (FDA-compliant versions)
Acrylic, also known as PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), is a transparent thermoplastic that is often used as a lightweight or shatter-resistant alternative to glass. In tubing, acrylic is rigid, optically clear, and aesthetically appealing—but limited in pressure and impact resistance.
Display and decorative applications
Aquarium systems
Laboratory setups where visual monitoring is crucial
Light piping and photonics
The following table compares key performance metrics between Nylon Tube and acrylic tube materials.
| Property | Nylon Tube | Acrylic Tube |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High (excellent for coiling) | Very low (brittle under stress) |
| Pressure Resistance | Up to 500 PSI (varies by wall thickness) | 100–150 PSI (low burst pressure) |
| Impact Strength | Excellent | Poor (can crack or shatter) |
| UV Resistance | Moderate to high | Excellent |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent with oils, fuels, and alkalis | Limited (can degrade in solvents) |
| Temperature Tolerance | -40°C to 100°C (some up to 120°C) | 0°C to 70°C |
| Transparency | Semi-transparent to opaque | Crystal clear |
| Weight | Light | Light |
| Recyclability | High | Moderate |
| Cost | Cost-effective | More expensive per meter |
From this comparison, it's clear that Nylon Tube is engineered for functionality, while acrylic excels more in aesthetics and light transmission.
Due to its excellent mechanical and chemical properties, Nylon Tube is often the preferred choice in:
Withstands high pressure
Resistant to shock and vibration
Easily installed in tight spaces due to flexibility
Used in air brake lines, fuel lines, and hydraulic control systems
Corrosion-resistant for outdoor use
Temperature-resistant in under-the-hood environments
Flexible routing in moving parts
Withstands repeated motion without fatigue
Available in FDA-compliant grades
Low moisture absorption ensures consistent internal diameter
Superior Mechanical Strength: Nylon has high tensile strength, making Nylon Tube less likely to rupture under pressure.
Thermal Stability: Nylon maintains performance across a broader temperature range.
Chemical Compatibility: Withstands oils, fuels, alkalis, and weak acids far better than acrylic.
Flexibility: Allows for bending and coiling without stress fractures.
Weight Efficiency: Lighter yet stronger than acrylic in pressure-bearing roles.
Poor Impact Resistance: Acrylic is brittle and prone to cracking.
Low Pressure Rating: Unsuitable for pneumatic or hydraulic use.
Poor Flexibility: Cannot be bent or coiled, limiting its industrial use.
With growing demand in automation, smart manufacturing, and lightweight vehicle design, the industry is shifting toward multi-functional, durable tubing materials. In 2024 and beyond, the following trends are fueling increased use of Nylon Tube:
Sustainability: Recyclable nylon blends are replacing PVC in many markets.
Automation Integration: Flexible tubing is needed for robotic and moving parts.
Miniaturization: Nylon supports thinner walls with high strength, ideal for compact systems.
| Industry | Application Example | Why Nylon Tube is Preferred |
| Automotive | Fuel and brake systems | Heat & chemical resistance |
| Food & Beverage | Low-pressure fluid dispensing | FDA-grade materials |
| Robotics | Cable and air line routing | Flexibility and fatigue resistance |
| Medical Equipment | Surgical air tools | Cleanability and precision dimensions |
| Agriculture | Sprayers and irrigation systems | UV and weather resistance |
Depending on your needs, Nylon Tube is available in:
PA11 (Polyamide 11): Flexible, good for dynamic applications
PA12 (Polyamide 12): Excellent chemical resistance, dimensionally stable
Reinforced Nylon: Glass fiber-reinforced versions for extreme environments
These variants allow manufacturers to tailor solutions based on strength, flexibility, or environmental resistance.
Installing Nylon Tube is typically faster and easier than rigid acrylic tubes:
Compatible with push-to-connect and compression fittings
Can be routed in compact or confined areas
Easy to cut, bend, and fit without stress cracking
On the other hand, acrylic tubing requires careful handling and support structures to avoid breakage.
Nylon is more durable in variable environmental conditions. While acrylic may yellow or become brittle over time, especially when exposed to fluctuating temperatures or vibration, Nylon Tube remains stable and long-lasting.
Nylon performs well in moist or outdoor environments
Acrylic is more suited to indoor, temperature-controlled settings
Many Nylon Tube formulations are now manufactured using bio-based polyamides, supporting environmentally conscious design without sacrificing strength or chemical resistance.
Additionally, the recyclability of nylon contributes to lower lifecycle emissions when compared to other thermoplastics like PVC or acrylic.
Though prices vary by grade, Nylon Tube tends to offer better cost-per-performance, especially when considering:
Service life
Maintenance frequency
Failure rates under pressure or impact
Acrylic may initially appear less expensive for decorative purposes, but in functional tubing applications, nylon often proves more economical over time.