Polyether vs Polyester Polyurethane (PU)

Polyether vs. Polyester Polyurethane (PU)
 

Polyether and polyester polyurethane are two commonly used materials with unique strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the characteristics of polyester and polyether polyurethane, focusing on their suitability for various applications.

Polyether-based Polyurethane

 
Polyether-based polyurethane is a highly versatile material recommended for applications undergoing medium to high stress. It is known for its excellent hydrolytic stability, fungus resistance, and low-temperature flexibility, making it an excellent choice for use in various applications. In addition, polyether-based polyurethanes remain stable in water as warm as 50℃ (122℉) for long periods, making it an ideal choice for use in applications where exposure to water is a concern. However, it is not recommended for running water over 70℃ (158℉), and moisture resistance is a crucial consideration for pneumatic applications.
 
Polyether-based polyurethane is usually more expensive than polyester-based material, but it demonstrates better durability, with a shelf life of approximately more than five years compared to the three years of polyester-based products such as regular PU tubing. It also has a negligible volume swell and water absorption rate of 0.3% to 1% by weight.

Polyester-based polyurethane

 
On the other hand, polyester-based polyurethane is a cost-effective material recommended for applications requiring excellent oil and abrasion resistance. Polyester PU has a burst pressure resistance comparable to ether-based tubing, making it a suitable choice for use in high-pressure applications. However, polyester-based polyurethane is not recommended for use in high humidity or exposure to water, as volume swells and reduction of properties may result.
 
In summary, polyester and polyether polyurethane have unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Polyether-based polyurethane is a highly versatile material recommended for applications undergoing medium to high stress, while polyester-based polyurethane is a cost-effective material ideal for applications requiring excellent oil and abrasion resistance. By carefully considering the application's specific requirements, it is possible to choose the suitable polyurethane material and ensure optimal performance and durability.  
 

Polyether and Polyester PU Comparison List

Here is a comparison list of the characteristics of polyether and polyester polyurethane:
I. Polyether-based Polyurethane:

• Low-temperature flexibility
• Resistance to weak acids/bases
• Fungus resistance
• Excellent hydrolytic stability
• Recommended for applications undergoing medium to high stress
• Burst pressure resistance: About the same as ester-based tubing
• Remain stable in water as warm as 50℃ (122℉) for long periods, but not recommended for running water over 70℃ (158℉)
• The water absorption rate is 0.3% to 1% by weight, and volume swell is negligible.
• Demonstrates better durability than ester material-based products (approximately five years versus the three years shelf life of polyester-based products, i.e., tubing)
• Generally more expensive than polyester-based material
• Moisture resistance for pneumatic applications

 
II. Polyester-based Polyurethane:

• Outstanding abrasion resistance
• Excellent oil resistance
• Burst pressure resistance: About the same as ether-based tubing
• Generally more substantial and enjoys a cost advantage over polyether-based PU tubing
• Not recommended for use in high humidity or exposure to water, as volume swell and reduction of properties may result.

 
We hope this comparison list and article help you select the suitable polyurethane material for your application.