Tensile strength, or the resistance of a material to break under tension, is determined by a tension or pull test and usually expressed in pounds per square inch (psi). Tensile strength for NewAge Industries' plastic tubing materials ranges from 1800 psi for flexible PVC (polyvinyl chloride) to 8700 psi for semi-rigid nylon-11. Rubber materials average 1100 psi for silicone and up to 3500 psi for natural latex.

In comparison, an average tensile strength for sheet steel is 50,000 psi, and depending on the alloy that number can reach 200,000 psi.

So why should you care about tensile strength when you're specifying or buying tubing?

Tensile strength relates to how well a material can handle stress and strain and how much force is required to determine its elongation (how far a material can stretch until it ruptures). Tensile also helps determine the amount of pressure the tubing or hose can manage. If your tubing's going to simply rest somewhere without being pulled, stepped on, or otherwise manipulated, acting as a simple fluid drain with little-to-no pressure or vacuum involved, you probably don't need to be too concerned about tensile strength.

But if your application involves the tubing or reinforced hose being pulled, stretched – think bungee cords – or pressurized, you'll need to know how much stress it can handle. You may even intend for the tubing to break in the application. In either case, learning the tensile strength is essential. Ask your supplier for the information if it is not found in their literature or available online.

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