VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length Review

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length: Is It Really That Good?

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length from VWR is designed for laboratory applications requiring a robust and reliable vacuum seal. With its heavy wall construction and high-quality natural rubber composition, this tubing promises durability and consistent performance under pressure. I’ve spent years cobbling together vacuum systems with various tubing solutions, and the promise of seamless, acid-proof reliability at a competitive price definitely piqued my interest, especially as inconsistent tubing has been the bane of my existence in the past.

My initial search was born out of frustration with cracking and collapsing standard tubing in my DIY vacuum degassing setup for resin casting. I needed something that could withstand repeated use without compromising the integrity of the vacuum. Having reviewed similar tubing options from Cole-Parmer and Saint-Gobain, the VWR product stood out due to its advertised wall thickness and the purported resilience of its natural rubber construction.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the substantial feel of the tubing; it definitely felt more robust than the thinner-walled silicone tubing I had been using previously. The black rubber had a smooth, clean finish, and the coil form made it easy to handle and measure out the desired length. I was immediately impressed by the build quality and eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground was my home lab, where I use vacuum systems for degassing resins, stabilizing wood, and creating custom molds. The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length was immediately incorporated into my resin degassing setup, replacing a section of silicone tubing that had been prone to kinking. In the initial run, it performed admirably, maintaining a consistent vacuum without any signs of collapse or deformation.

I also subjected it to a temperature test, running warm water (around 120°F) through it to simulate working conditions in a warm environment. There was no noticeable softening or degradation of the rubber. The ease of use was notable – the tubing readily connected to my existing fittings and created a tight seal without any additional clamps or sealants.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put it through over 50 degassing cycles, and it still looks and performs as new. There are no signs of cracking, stretching, or loss of elasticity.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any resin residue. The tubing has held up remarkably well compared to my previous experiences with standard PVC tubing, which tended to become brittle and prone to leaks over time. It far surpasses the silicone tubing, especially under any kind of pressure.

Breaking Down the Features of VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length

Specifications

• The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length features an Inner Diameter (I.D.) of 5/8 inch and an Outer Diameter (O.D.) of 1 3/8 inch. This generous I.D. allows for a high flow rate, essential in efficient vacuum applications.
• It boasts a substantial 3/8 inch wall thickness, providing exceptional resistance to collapse under vacuum. This is critical for maintaining a consistent vacuum and avoiding performance drops.
• Manufactured from high-quality natural rubber, it offers excellent flexibility and chemical resistance. The natural rubber provides a superior seal and withstands acids, making it extremely versatile.
• The Manufacturer, VWR, specifies a durometer hardness of Shore A, 50, indicating a good balance between flexibility and durability. This ensures it is pliable enough to bend without kinking, yet strong enough to resist deformation.
• The tubing has a tensile strength of 2500-3500psi, which underscores its ability to withstand significant pressure. This specification provides assurance that the tube won’t burst or tear under heavy use.

Performance & Functionality

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length excels in maintaining a stable and consistent vacuum. Its thick wall prevents collapse, even at high vacuum levels, ensuring reliable operation of vacuum pumps and equipment. The tubing’s flexibility allows for easy routing and connection, minimizing the risk of leaks.

The rubber’s resistance to a variety of chemicals is a major strength, making it suitable for diverse laboratory applications. The only weakness is the natural rubber’s sensitivity to prolonged exposure to certain solvents; care should be taken to avoid contact with harsh chemicals not explicitly rated for compatibility. It undoubtedly meets and exceeds my expectations, given its performance and durability compared to other options I’ve used in the past.

Design & Ergonomics

The black rubber construction provides a clean and professional look. The coil form factor facilitates easy storage and dispensing. The weight feels substantial, reflecting the heavy-duty construction and quality materials used.

The tubing is easy to cut and manipulate with standard tools, requiring no special equipment for installation. There is virtually no learning curve; it integrates seamlessly with existing vacuum setups.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length should last for years. The durable rubber construction resists wear and tear. Maintenance is simple; wiping down the tubing with a damp cloth after use is generally sufficient.

Regular inspection for cracks or abrasions is recommended, but thus far, I have seen none. Its longevity and ease of maintenance represent a significant advantage over cheaper alternatives.

Accessories and Customization Options

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length doesn’t come with specific accessories but is designed to work with standard vacuum fittings and connectors. The 5/8 inch I.D. is a common size, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of components from various brands. You can easily customize the tubing length to suit specific needs.

The tubing is also compatible with hose clamps for added security in high-pressure applications. Its versatility and compatibility with standard lab equipment make it easy to integrate into existing setups.

Pros and Cons of VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length

Who Should Buy VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length?

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length is perfect for laboratory professionals, researchers, and serious DIY enthusiasts requiring a reliable and durable vacuum seal. It’s ideal for applications such as vacuum degassing, vacuum forming, and chemical processing. This tubing is also an excellent choice for wood stabilization processes that demand robust vacuum systems.

Those on a tight budget or with only occasional vacuum application needs might find a cheaper alternative sufficient. Individuals working extensively with harsh solvents that are known to degrade natural rubber should also consider alternative materials like PTFE or Viton. For those requiring utmost flexibility, silicone tubing might be preferred despite its lower vacuum resistance.

Must-have accessories include appropriate vacuum fittings and connectors to match the 5/8 inch I.D. Hose clamps can provide added security in high-pressure or high-temperature applications.

Conclusion on VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length

The VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length is a top-tier product that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the durability and consistent vacuum seal justify the investment for serious users. The tubing’s robust construction, chemical resistance, and ease of use make it a valuable asset in any laboratory or workshop environment.

I would highly recommend the VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length to anyone seeking a dependable solution for vacuum applications. If you’re tired of dealing with leaky or collapsing tubing, this is a worthwhile upgrade that will save you time and frustration in the long run. Don’t settle for less – invest in the VWR Black Vacuum Rubber Tubing 9771 50″ Coil Length and experience the difference.