Rubber Tubing, High Pressure

Quick Answer: The Rubber Tubing, High Pressure is heavy-walled rubber tubing made to keep its shape when the pressure inside differs strongly from the pressure outside. High pressure rubber tubing is used on vacuum lines, filter pumps and gas connections where thin tubing would collapse or balloon.

Why Wall Thickness Matters

Ordinary thin-walled rubber tubing works for carrying water or gas at close to atmospheric pressure. Under vacuum, however, the outside air presses a thin wall flat and the line closes; under positive pressure, a thin wall swells and can burst. A thick wall relative to the bore resists both, which is why the same heavy tubing is often called vacuum tubing or pressure tubing depending on the job.

In teaching labs its commonest role is the link between a water-jet or electric pump and the side arm of a filtering flask. It is also used on vacuum distillation set-ups and for gas connections where the tube is likely to be kinked or pulled. The pressure rating is not given in the listing, so it must be established for any application above low pressure.

The thicker wall makes the tubing stiffer, so it needs a little more effort to slip onto glass or metal nozzles. Warm water or a smear of glycerol on the nozzle helps, and a hose clip secures joints that must not slip.

Specifications

Applications

• Connecting a filter pump to a filtering flask for suction filtration
• Vacuum distillation and rotary evaporator connections in college labs
• Gas lines between a regulator and apparatus, within the tubing’s rating
• Lines to desiccators and to vacuum demonstrations such as a bell jar

Care & Handling

• Never use the tubing above the pressure it is rated for, and take particular care with gas cylinder connections.
• Secure joints with hose clips wherever the tube could slip off under pressure.
• Inspect regularly for cracks near the ends, where the rubber flexes most.
• Store it coiled loosely, away from sunlight and from ozone sources such as motors.

Why Choose LabEquip

Heavy-walled tubing is bought by schools and colleges running suction filtration and vacuum practicals, and by workshops that need robust connections. LabEquip lists it in the General Lab Products range; tell us the bore and length you need through the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does ordinary tubing collapse on a vacuum pump?

Atmospheric pressure pushes on the outside of the tube while the inside is at low pressure. A thin wall cannot resist that difference and flattens, closing the line. Thick-walled tubing keeps its bore open.

What is the pressure rating of this tubing?

The rating is not stated in the listing and depends on the bore, wall thickness and rubber compound. Confirm it at enquiry before using the tubing for anything above low pressure.

How do I fit thick tubing onto a glass side arm?

Wet the side arm or smear on a little glycerol, hold the glass close to the joint and push the tubing on with a gentle twist. Never lever the tubing sideways, which can snap the side arm.

Can it be used for gas burners?

Rubber tubing can connect laboratory burners, but gas supply connections should meet local safety rules and use tubing intended for that gas. Check fittings for leaks with soapy water, never with a flame.

Why does rubber tubing crack over time?

Ozone, sunlight, heat and oils break down rubber, starting at the surface. Cracks appear first where the tube is bent or stretched over a nozzle. Cut back the damaged end or replace the length.

Is high pressure tubing resistant to solvents?

Not in general. The wall thickness helps with pressure, not chemistry, and many organic solvents swell rubber. Choose nitrile, neoprene or a plastic tubing according to the liquid being carried.

Last Updated: September 2026