Hoses are very popular and are divided into different categories. This categorization is based on the materials they use. PTFE and rubber hoses are two popular types of hoses used worldwide. However, they have differences that spark a debate on PTFE hoses vs rubber hoses.
Some people consider PTFE hoses a superior option due to their excellent strength and durability. However, the lower prices of rubber hoses make them stand out. Their selection can be confusing, especially if you’re choosing a hose for the first time. In this article, I’ll explain their differences, helping you select the proper hose. So, let’s get started!
What are PTFE & Rubber Hoses?
Let’s first discuss the basics of PTFE and rubber hoses before discussing their differences.
PTFE and rubber hoses are used to transfer liquids and gases from one place to another. PTFE hoses are made from synthetic plastics and are renowned for their exceptional durability and strength. The rubber hoses are lightweight, flexible, and inexpensive as compared to PTFE hoses.
PTFE stands for Polytetrafluoroethylene, a synthetic plastic. It is commonly known as Teflon and is extremely rugged and durable. This material is used to make the inner lining of PTFE hoses. The external side of PTFE hoses consists of stainless steel braiding. The purpose of this braiding is to give additional strength to the core of these hoses.
The rubber hoses can be made of either natural or synthetic rubber, such as NBR or neoprene. This outer cover does not consist of stainless steel. Instead, it is a strong rubber fabric cover, which is not as strong as stainless steel braiding. These hoses are well known for their flexibility, which is achieved through the use of rubber.
The PTFE hoses are premium and offer better performance even in harsh conditions. However, their cost is very high, which makes them less suitable for budget-friendly projects. On the flip side, rubber hoses are less costly but have some limitations. Generally, rubber hoses are used where cost-cutting is required. Their performance is not as good as that of PTFE hoses.
What Are The Differences Between PTFE and Rubber Hoses?
The primary differences between these hoses lie in their composition. The PTFE hoses are made with PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) material. Moreover, it features stainless braiding to ensure durability and ruggedness, providing ideal longevity. The rubber hoses are made of rubber material with fabric covers. These hoses are less durable, but are available at an affordable price.
There are several other differences to consider when deciding between PTFE hoses and rubber hoses. In the section below, we will discuss all the differences between PTFE and rubber hoses.
1- Temperature & UV Rays Resistance
The PTFE hoses are a superior option when it comes to temperature and UV rays resistance. PTFE is a synthetic material that can withstand temperatures around 260 degrees Celsius. Additionally, it can withstand extremely low temperatures (up to -70°C) easily. On the other hand, the rubber’s temperature resistance is compromised.
It can withstand a temperature range between -40°C and 120°C. Using rubber hoses at extreme temperatures can cause leakage and cracks. Similarly, the PTFE and rubber hoses differ in terms of UV resistance. The PTFE hoses can withstand high UV rays with ease. On the other hand, rubber hoses can crack and be damaged if they remain exposed to UV rays for an extended period.
2- Chemical & Pressure Resistance
The PTFE hoses offer better resistance against acids, fuels, and other harsh chemicals. The reason is that their inner lining (core portion) is made of PTFE material. This Teflon or PTFE is non-reactive and does not react with chemicals. As a result, these hoses remain safe, regardless of the environment’s abrasiveness.
On the other hand, the inner lining of rubber hoses is made of rubber. This material is not very strong and can react with acids. This reaction can be slow, but over time, these hoses can deteriorate due to consistent exposure to chemicals. When it comes to pressure resistance, both PTFE and rubber hose perform well.
However, I consider PTFE hoses slightly better due to their reinforced stainless steel braiding. Remember, this braiding increases the strength of the core of these hoses. So these hoses can withstand extreme pressure efficiently. On the other hand, rubber hoses lack braiding and are therefore weaker. Therefore, their pressure-bearing capacity is slightly compromised.
3- Flexibility & Shock Absorption
The rubber hoses are better options in terms of flexibility and shock absorption. Remember, the rubber material, whether synthetic or natural, has some elasticity. This elasticity makes these hoses flexible. They can bear the shock by undergoing compression. Additionally, these pipes can twist and move easily.
On the flipside, PTFE hoses are rigid. They have an inner lining made of PTFE material, which is a flexible material. Additionally, their outer covering has reinforced stainless steel braiding. These braiding further makes these pipes rigid and less flexible. Their shock absorption is also compromised due to a lack of flexibility. So, I consider a rubber hose a superior option if you prefer flexibility.
Quick Highlight: Rubber hoses are flexible, easy to handle, and can move freely without much effort. Moreover, they have minimal kinking, which helps extend their lifespan. On the other hand, PTFE hoses are more rigid and can be prone to kinking if not properly handled. That’s why it’s vital to use PTFE hoses carefully and avoid sharp bends.
4- Durability and Lifespan
The PTFE hoses are more durable and long-lasting than rubber hoses. The reason is that their inner lining material (PTFE) is robust. This material makes these hoses chemically resistant. Additionally, they have an outer cover consisting of stainless steel braiding.
This cover ensures additional strength to these hoses. Even in extreme conditions, the PTFE hoses remain in good shape. You can use these hoses to easily transport high-pressure fluids. On the other hand, rubber hoses are flexible, but their durability is compromised. Their inner lining is made of rubber, which is not very strong.
Therefore, consistent exposure to chemicals and high pressure can cause these hoses to weaken. This results in a lower lifespan of rubber pipes. Additionally, their outer covering consists of fabrics, which is another drawback. This fabric deteriorates when exposed to high temperatures or UV rays. Therefore, I consider PTFE hoses durable and long-lasting.
5- Permeability & Abrasion Resistance
Permeability and abrasion resistance are two important parameters. One must consider them when choosing between PTFE and rubber hoses. Permeability refers to the passing of gases or liquids through a material. The PTFE material is robust and has very low permeability. It means that gases or liquids cannot pass or seep through it over time.
A very old PTFE hose will still prevent gases from seeping through it. Additionally, this hose features stainless steel braiding, which further reduces permeability. On the flip side, rubber hoses have some permeability. It means these hoses can allow the chemicals or gases to seep through over time.
Regarding abrasion resistance, I consider PTFE hose a superior option. These hoses can withstand high temperatures and harsh chemicals easily. The stainless steel braiding present on their external surface keeps them safe from cuts & scratches. The rubber hoses don’t offer ideal abrasion resistance and can deteriorate quickly.
6- Cost & Applications
The rubber material (synthetic or natural) is cheap and affordable. So, hoses made of this material are also less costly. Remember, the lower price of rubber brings some drawbacks. The rubber hoses are less durable and not ideally resistant to chemicals. On the other hand, PTFE material is a premium and very costly material.
However, it offers exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to temperature and chemicals. The PTFE hoses are more expensive, but they are worth the additional price. The reason is that they will last longer and can provide better performance than rubber hoses. Both rubber and PTFE hoses differ in their applications.
PTFE is ideal for heavy-duty applications. Conversely, rubber hoses are suitable for mild applications. Here is a table showing the application comparison of PTFE and rubber hoses:
| PTFE Hose Applications | Rubber Hose Applications |
| Chemical transfer, | Car cooling systems |
| Food & beverage processing, | Air tools |
| Pharmaceutical use | Garden hoses |
| Aerospace fuel lines, | Oil transfer |
| Performance fuel systems, | Water supply |
| Steam lines | HVAC systems |
| Lab equipment | Irrigation |
| Electronics manufacturing, | General industry |
Pros and Cons Comparison of PTFE & Rubber Hoses
As I mentioned earlier, both of these options offer unique advantages and disadvantages. For example, rubber hoses are less durable but offer ideal flexibility. PTFE hoses provide excellent strength but are very expensive. There are many other pros and cons, and understanding them is essential, especially if you’re deciding to buy one.
Here is a table showing their pros and cons comparison:
| PTFE Hose – Pros | PTFE Hose – Cons | Rubber Hose – Pros | Rubber Hose – Cons |
| UV resistant | Expensive | Low cost | Can crack in sunlight |
| Low permeability, | Not for tight bends | Easy to install, | Higher leakage rate |
| Temp resistance (260°C) | Less flexible & rigid – Prone to kinking | Very flexible and does not undergo kinking | Limited heat resistance (up to 120°C) |
| Chemical resistant, | Needs special fittings | Good shock absorption, | Weak against chemicals & UV rays |
| Long-lasting, | Hard to route, | General-purpose friendly, | Shorter lifespan |
| Great for harsh conditions | Heavier with a metal layer (braiding) | Lightweight & easy to use in long run | Less durable under stress |
Which One Should You Choose: PTFE or Rubber Hose?
The selection of PTFE or rubber hose depends on individual needs and preferences.
I consider PTFE hose the best option for a variety of applications. The reason is that this type of hose is durable and strong due to the material used for its inner lining. Their external stainless steel braiding further improves their strength. The temperature and chemical resistance of PTFE hose are ideal.
PTFE offers a wide range of favorable properties. However, I still don’t consider them the best option for those with tight budgets. The initial cost is very high, which is a big drawback. In such cases, rubber hoses are particularly useful as they are more affordable. Additionally, their performance is decent, making them a good option for beginners.
Conclusion
As I said earlier, hoses are a must-have for many industries. Manufacturers use different materials to make those hoses and enhance their properties. Two popular materials used in hoses are PTFE and rubber. The hoses made of PTFE are very durable, stronger, and can withstand extreme conditions.
You can use it to transport high-pressure abrasive chemicals. On the other hand, the rubber hoses are inexpensive, but their performance is not as good as that of PTFE hoses. I consider rubber hoses a good option for those who have a tight budget. Remember, these hoses are not the same. Instead, PTFE is a superior option, and rubber hoses are cheaper alternatives to PTFE hoses.