Understanding the Differences: Corrugated Split Tubing vs. Traditional Plastic Tubes

When it comes to organizing and protecting wires and cables, both traditional plastic tubes and corrugated split tubing have their place. But choosing the right option depends on your specific needs. In order to assist you in making an educated choice, let's examine the main distinctions between these two kind of tubing.

Traditional Plastic Tubing:

Material: Solid, non-flexible plastic like PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) or Nylon, unlike a flexible plastic tube.
Installation: Requires cutting to length and feeding wires through the tube. Cannot be opened for mid-run cable insertion.
Flexibility: Lacks flexibility and can crack or break if bent sharply.
Protection: Offers basic protection against dust, dirt, and minor abrasions. Not ideal for extreme temperatures or environments prone to physical impact.
Applications: Suitable for low-maintenance applications where cable routing is straightforward and unlikely to change. Common uses include bundling low-voltage wires behind desks or organizing electrical cords within entertainment centres.

Corrugated Split Tubing:

Material: Flexible plastic with a corrugated exterior and a split seam running along its length. Often made from PE (Polyethylene) or PP (Polypropylene).
Installation: Easier to install due to the split seam. Allows for mid-run cable insertion without cutting the tube.
Flexibility: Highly flexible and can bend around corners without compromising its structure.
Protection: Provides superior protection against dust, dirt, moisture, and physical impact due to its corrugated design. Some varieties offer UV resistance for outdoor applications.
Applications: Ideal for dynamic environments or situations where cable routing might change. Commonly used in electrical panels, machinery, automotive applications, and data centres where flexibility and cable management are crucial.

Choosing the Right Tubing

Flexibility Needs: If frequent cable additions or adjustments are anticipated, corrugated split tubing is the clear winner.
Protection Requirements: For applications requiring superior protection from environmental factors or physical impact, corrugated split tubing is ideal.
Aesthetics: Traditional plastic tubing offers a cleaner look, while corrugated split tubing's ribbed design might be less aesthetically pleasing in some settings.
Both traditional plastic tubes and corrugated split tubing have their merits. By understanding their key differences and considering your project's specific needs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your wires are well-protected and organized.

Source - https://customextrusion./2024/05/23/understanding-the-differences-corrugated-split-tubing-vs-traditional-plastic-tubes/