Tubing and pipes are a major part of our modern infrastructure. Actually, they’ve been around for quite some time, dating as far back as ancient Rome. Back then, pipes were used almost exclusively for water and plumbing.

Today, cylindrical tubes serve a wide range of uses, from support structures to gas filters to heat sources, and so much more.

Almost all tubing you find today is either metal or plastic.

At Ever-Roll, we perform metal tube bending that is used in many different industries across the world. With so many possibilities for application, we thought contrast metal tubing against plastic tubing and see where you might use one vs the other.

It’s not a contest. Just a friendly comparison.

(Though if it was a contest, metal tubing would totally be the winner.)

Metal Tubing vs. Plastic Tubing

Plastic tubing is commonly found in indoor plumbing, as well as being used as housing for electrical lines. Because it’s a non-conductive material, it can provide an extra layer of safety when electricity is involved.

The key advantages of plastic tubing are the fact that it’s lightweight, flexible, it can not rust or corrode, and it’s generally lower in cost.

However, its lightweight and flexible nature also mean that historically it has been prone to breaking and cracking. Plastic tubing simply won’t last as long as metal tubing  in most environments.

Of course, longevity isn’t metal tubing’s only advantage. Metal tubing can handle high stress and high heat. It often looks more attractive, especially when it’s stainless steel or aluminum. With stainless steel and aluminum, you also won’t have to worry about rust. While metal tubing is typically more costly, the application and cost will dictate which choice is better at any  application.

It’s also worth mentioning that metal tubing is much better for the environment than plastic, as it’s non-toxic and 100% recyclable/reusable.

Knowing When to Use Which

There aren’t many cases where metal tubing and plastic tubing truly go head to head. Usually, in any given situation, one is the clear winner.

At Ever-Roll, the metal tubing we produce can be found in cars, motorcycles, exhaust systems, commercial piping, exercise equipment, railings, farming equipment, and more. Metal tubing also works great for HVAC systems, city infrastructure, medical equipment, bicycles, and more.

If you’re in need of tube fabrication services, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a quote and discover just how great quality metal tubing can be.