Insulation Tubing

Polyethylene foam and polyethylene foam tubing

Polyethylene (PE) is a non-polar, semi-crystalline, thermoplastic material from the group of polyolefins, which is obtained by chain polymerization from petrochemically produced ethene. Since polyethylene is the most commonly used plastic in the world, it is considered to be standard. Although it can be divided into several subtypes, all types of polyethylene are characterized by their high chemical resistance, good electrical insulation properties, and excellent surface quality. Accordingly, polyethylene is ideal for usage in a wide variety of applications. GREMCO uses this versatile plastic to manufacture a range of high-quality polyethylene foam tubing products.

FitcoFoam®-PE

Our special manufacturing process of the polyethylene foam tubes allows for the extrusion of polyethylene foam small diameter (<15mm) insulating tubing. This closed-cell foam product is mainly utilized for noise suppression in automobiles. These foam tubes are instored as rattle protection on mechanical cables as well as wire harnesses and fluid transfer systems.

Our FitcoFoam^®-PE is an example of a homogeneous and extremely cost-efficient product made of foamed polyethylene with a robust outer skin providing protection against external mechanical abuse. Due to the addition of flame retardance, our tubing complies with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Specification – FMVSS 302 standard

Furthermore, thanks to appropriate additives, the insulating hose complies with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Specification – FMVSS 302 standard. The product is also CFC- and HCFC-free, allowing the user easy and inexpensive recycling and disposal. Continuous operating temperature extends from – 40°C to + 80°C (-40°F to 167°F).

Polyurethane foam tubing – FitcoFoam®-PU

In contrast to FitcoFoam^®-PE, our FitcoFoam^®-PU consists of polyurethane foam formed into a hose and seam-welded. Polyurethane has improved flame retardancy as well as higher temperature performance. It will withstand continuous operating temperatures from -40°C to +100°C (-40°F to 212°F). Otherwise, the FitcoFoam^® PU largely corresponds to FitcoFoam^® PE in terms of its properties. The main areas of application for this modified polyurethane foam hose are in more temperature-intensive applications. For example, in automobiles that are used in very hot and sunny regions or are placed close to the outer skin of the car body. The drying process during refinishing would otherwise damage the rattle protection.