Plastic pitot tubing - shelf life?

Inverted · #1 12-08-2009, 08:58 AM

Does anyone know the shelf life of the plastic tubing used in several of the pitot kits such as the one from Safeair1? I've seem some other plastic lines in older homebuilts that were shot, really brittle.

Brantel · #2 12-08-2009, 09:05 AM

The stuff from Safeair1 is DOT approved brake line tube used for over the road big rigs and trucks.

Some of the stuff out there looks like icemaker tubing from Home Depot.

cholladay · #3 12-08-2009, 11:13 AM

I hope they last a long time since it is installed on my plane.
Chad

mark schoening · #4 12-08-2009, 05:15 PM

Former truck driver------tubing used by stein , was used by my Co on trailers---some were from the late 70's tubing was still flexible and when repaired, last inch cut off and new fitting applied , still flexible enough to expand over fitting. When NOT exposed to ultraviolet last long time I use it with confidence!

roee · #5 12-08-2009, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark schoening

When NOT exposed to ultraviolet last long time I use it with confidence!

I think you hit the nail on the head. UV exposure is a key factor in the longevity of many plastics. IF you keep your tubing runs away from direct sunlight, then they should last a good long time, on the shelf or in the airplane (likely the lifetime of the airframe).