Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50
In the world of tactical gear and outdoor equipment, we often focus on the sharpest knives, the warmest jackets, and the most reliable packs. However, the often-overlooked realm of sanitary tubing is equally crucial, especially when dealing with water purification, medical applications in the field, or even crafting makeshift hydration systems. The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 promises a level of purity and performance that demands closer inspection.
My quest for dependable, sanitary tubing began with a recurring issue during extended backcountry expeditions. I was constantly seeking a safe and reliable way to siphon water from natural sources through my filtration system without introducing contaminants. The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 arrived neatly packaged, fifty individual lengths coiled and ready for use. The translucent silicone exuded an immediate sense of cleanliness and flexibility.
Compared to standard PVC tubing I had previously used, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 felt noticeably softer and more pliable. This suggested enhanced kink resistance and a greater ease of handling in cold weather. My initial excitement stemmed from the promised sanitary properties and the potential for improved performance in harsh conditions, a crucial upgrade from standard tubing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 during a week-long solo backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The primary goal was to assess its performance in siphoning water from alpine streams into my gravity-fed water filter system. The tubing performed admirably, exhibiting excellent flexibility even in near-freezing temperatures.
The ultra-smooth inner bore truly lived up to its description, allowing for a noticeably faster flow rate compared to the rougher interior of my previous PVC tubing. I experienced no issues with kinking or collapsing, even when navigating tricky terrain. Furthermore, the translucent nature of the tubing allowed for visual inspection of the water flow, ensuring no debris or contaminants were present.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across various environments, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 has demonstrated remarkable durability. There are no signs of cracking, discoloration, or degradation, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and temperature extremes. Cleaning is remarkably easy, requiring just a simple rinse with water and a mild soap.
Compared to previous tubing solutions, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 far outperforms them in terms of flexibility, durability, and ease of cleaning. It has become an indispensable part of my water purification setup, providing peace of mind knowing that I am using a sanitary and reliable component. This tubing not only met but exceeded my expectations, proving its worth in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50
Specifications
The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its superior performance. Its dimensions are 1/16 inch inner diameter x 3/16 inch outer diameter, with a 1/16 inch wall thickness. These dimensions provide an optimal balance between flow rate and flexibility.
The Saint-Gobain No.: ABW00003 identifies this specific formulation within the Tygon 3350 series, ensuring consistency and quality. The tubing is made from platinum-cured translucent silicone, which is known for its biocompatibility, chemical resistance, and high-temperature tolerance. The Shore A hardness of 50 indicates its flexibility and resistance to deformation.
The maximum operating temperature of 200°C (392°F) and tensile strength of 1450psi further underscore its durability and reliability in demanding applications. Meeting USP Class VI and FDA criteria ensures that the tubing is safe for use in contact with food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the tubing’s performance in sensitive fluid transfer and ensure fluid purity.
Performance & Functionality
The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 excels in its intended function, providing a reliable and sanitary conduit for fluid transfer. Its flexibility allows it to navigate tight spaces and awkward angles without kinking, ensuring a consistent flow. The ultra-smooth inner bore minimizes the risk of particle entrapment, which is crucial when dealing with sensitive fluids.
The tubing’s high-temperature resistance and chemical compatibility make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from hot beverages to laboratory chemicals. However, its relatively small inner diameter might limit its use in applications requiring high flow rates of viscous fluids. Overall, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 performs exceptionally well, meeting and often exceeding expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The translucent silicone material of the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 offers excellent visibility of the fluid being transferred. Its lightweight and flexible nature make it easy to handle and manipulate in various settings. There is virtually no learning curve associated with its use, making it accessible to both seasoned professionals and novice users.
The smooth outer surface prevents the accumulation of dirt and grime, simplifying cleaning and maintenance. While the tubing itself is not inherently ergonomic, its flexibility and ease of handling contribute to a positive user experience. The build quality is exceptional, reflecting Saint-Gobain’s commitment to producing high-quality laboratory consumables.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its silicone construction, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 is expected to last for an extended period with proper care. The silicone material is resistant to degradation from UV exposure, chemicals, and temperature extremes. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water.
The tubing is also autoclavable, allowing for sterilization when necessary. While silicone is generally durable, it can be susceptible to tears or punctures if subjected to sharp objects or excessive force. However, with reasonable care, the Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 does not come with specific accessories, but its standard dimensions make it compatible with a wide range of connectors, fittings, and clamps. These accessories allow users to customize the tubing for specific applications, such as connecting it to pumps, filters, or reservoirs. The tubing’s flexibility also allows for easy cutting and shaping, further enhancing its adaptability.
While there are no specific “customization options” in the traditional sense, the ability to pair it with various aftermarket components provides ample opportunity for tailoring it to individual needs. Its compatibility with standard fittings makes it a versatile component in various fluid transfer systems. Consider pairing this tubing with standard luer lock fittings or barbed connectors for optimal compatibility and ease of use.
Pros and Cons of Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50
Pros
- Exceptional sanitary properties, meeting USP Class VI and FDA criteria, ensuring safety for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical applications.
- High flexibility and kink resistance, allowing for easy routing and consistent flow even in tight spaces or cold conditions.
- Durable silicone construction, providing resistance to UV exposure, chemicals, and temperature extremes for long-lasting performance.
- Ultra-smooth inner bore, minimizing particle entrapment and facilitating efficient fluid transfer.
- Autoclavable, allowing for sterilization and reuse in critical applications.
Cons
- Relatively small inner diameter (1/16 inch), which may limit flow rates for viscous fluids or applications requiring high volumes.
- Silicone material can be susceptible to tears or punctures if exposed to sharp objects or excessive force.
Who Should Buy Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50?
The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 is perfect for individuals or organizations requiring a high degree of sanitary fluid transfer. This includes researchers, laboratory technicians, brewers, medical professionals, survivalists who prioritize clean water sources, and anyone working with sensitive fluids. It is especially beneficial in applications where maintaining purity and preventing contamination are paramount.
This product might be less suitable for individuals needing to transfer large volumes of viscous fluids quickly due to its smaller inner diameter. Those who frequently subject tubing to harsh physical conditions or abrasive environments might also want to consider alternative materials with higher tear resistance.
A must-have accessory is a set of compatible fittings and connectors to integrate the tubing into your specific system. Also, consider using a tube cutter for clean, precise cuts to prevent fraying or damage.
Conclusion on Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50
The Saint Gobain Tygon Sanitary Silicone Tubing, Formulation 3350, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics ABW00003, Pack of 50 offers a compelling blend of sanitary performance, durability, and flexibility, making it a valuable asset in various applications. At $195.99 for a pack of 50, the price is justified considering the superior quality and specialized nature of the product.
I would highly recommend this tubing to anyone prioritizing sanitary fluid transfer and reliable performance. If you need dependable, clean, and durable tubing for your water purification, medical, or laboratory needs, this is an excellent choice. Upgrade your system today and experience the peace of mind that comes with using a trusted Saint Gobain product!
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