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Are Silicone Hoses fuel resistant?

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fuel hoses

This is a question we know gets asked often. Can you use silicone hoses for fuel hoses? Well standard silicone hoses are porous and therefore not suitable for oil or fuel. There are flurosilicone liners, which are specially formulated to prevent oil from penetrating the wall but we would not recommend these for Fuel lines, or heavy use of Fuel Filling. Occasional fuel usage and vapour will be fine but there are better options when it comes to selecting fuel hoses:

Options for fuel hoses:

Two materials, which are better suited for fuel hose applications, are Nitrile Rubber and PTFE.

nitrile stainless steel fuel hoseNitrile rubber (NBR) is an oil-resistant synthetic rubber. Its main applications are in fuel hoses, gaskets, rollers, and other products in which oil resistance is required. Here at Viper we sell various products which utilise Nitrile Rubber. These are:

• SAE J30 R6 approved Nitrile Rubber fuel Hose – this fuel hose is fully compliant with SVA regulation and most types of fuel.

• Fuel Filler Hose – These hoses are made with a fuel resistant Nitrile Rubber lining and are perfect for using as a Fuel Filler Hose. These hoses are not Suitable for high octane fuels.

• Stainless Steel Braided Hoses – Superb Quality Stainless Steel Braided hose with tight double braiding and NBR offers a good bend radius, and high pressure use for Oil, fuel lines, Carburetor, water lines, vacuum.

Silicone hose coilPTFE or Polytetrafluoroethylene lined hoses can be used for a wide variety of chemicals, making it the ideal choice for very corrosive chemical applications and multiproduct applications. In some cases, PTFE has superior resistance to diffusion, for example to the diffusion of automotive fuels, in comparison with all other plastics and rubbers. We have top Quality Stainless Steel Braided hose available lined with PTFE. The pressure rating makes it suitable for use as Brake Lines, Clutch Lines, Oil and fuel.

Need to buy fuel hoses?

You can find all of these products on our online shop. We have a dedicated fuel hoses section which is available here.

fuel hoses shop

8 ways to upgrade your car

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If you are striving for better performance but can’t afford a car with better specs then you will be looking for upgrades. Upgrading a car can be a great way of achieving the speed, acceleration and efficiency you’re after for a fraction of the cost. Upgrades can range from small tweaks to big system changes. Below we have listed 8 ways to upgrade your car for better performance:

Upgraded Tyres1. Choose better tyres

One of the most obvious upgrades is to choose better quality tyres for your car. Power and performance are great, but if you don’t have the grip from quality tyres to translate that to the road it will be a waste.

Equally if you want your car to perform in all weathers then you will need to ensure you are selecting the correct tyres for the conditions at hand. All weather tyres are a compromise on performance parameters and will likely not meet all users needs or expectations. Selecting a set of summer and winter tyres is the best solution for getting good traction and ensuring you have the ability to put the power to the ground. ‘Which’ have a great article on which tyres to buy here

Upgraded brake system2. Upgrade your Brakes

Arguably one of the most important performance factors is the ability to stop effectively. The better quality your brakes, the longer you can wait to engage them. In corners this means maintaining a higher rate of speed longer than your competitors. Whether it be simply purchasing better brake pads or upgrading the entire system investment in your braking will always be worth your time and money.

3. Install a cold air intake

It’s a fact the better your car breathes, the better it runs. Installing a cold-air intake not only frees up the airflow to your engine, it also feeds it cooler, more condensed air. By replacing your original intake pipe with one that was designed to maximize power, you will simultaneously increase horsepower, and fuel efficiency.

4. Swap out rubber hoses for Silicone Hoses

Upgraded silicone hoses

Another upgrade would be to swap out the standard rubber hoses in your car for better quality silicone versions. Compared to rubber, silicone has superior heat tolerance. The reason this is important is if, for example, you add a nice turbocharger to your engine and don’t upgrade your hoses at the same time you will potentially drive all that extra heat into hoses that aren’t equipped to handle it.

Another reason to upgrade your hoses is that rubber hoses are prone to cracking, getting stiff, or becoming dry rotted over time. Silicone is a very stable material that acts almost like new, even when it’s not. Anyone who has had a hose leak will know what a headache this is to diagnose and correct so upgrading to silicone will definitely impact your performance for the better. You can buy silicone hoses direct from us here

If you’re interested in the specific benefits of silicone hoses then read our blog on what difference silicone hoses make here

5. Exhaust System Modification

Often people think of upgrades to exhaust systems as a purely noise inducing tasks. But as well as giving you a nicer exhaust note when accelerating you can also see improvements in power. Installing a brand new stainless steel exhaust to an older car will result in a big difference as exhaust cats can get clogged up over time meaning performance slowly decreases.

If you choose to install a performance exhaust you could see an increase in power output as the performance exhaust will usually be wider in diameter. This allows more air gases to escape, which in turn increases power output.

6. Upgrade your Spark Plugs

Standard spark plugs often have troubles firing, which can decrease the speed and reliability of a car therefore upgrading your spark plugs will enhance your car’s performance. With newer high performance spark plugs, misfires are far less frequent. This reduces the emissions from the car whilst in turn increasing fuel efficiency.

7. Add a Turbo charger

A turbo charger allows a car to burn more fuel each second. That’s why a turbocharged car can produce more power. Turbos are more efficient than superchargers and can provide a significant increase in horsepower. Not only that but turbo chargers are to improve fuel economy by as much as 20-40%.

8. Add an Exhaust Wrap

We recently wrote a blog on ‘why you should have an exhaust wrap’ which detailed its fantastic heat protection properities. By adding an exhaust wrap to your heat you will see a reduction in temperatures around resulting in more horsepower. This increase in horsepower is down to increased engine efficiency as the exhaust wrap keeps heat in the header instead of it dissipating around the engine. You can buy exhaust wraps from us here

If you’ve upgraded your car recently we’d love to hear how you did it and what performance enhancements you have achieved as a consequence. Get in touch on our Twitter page @viperhoses. We have lots of products available in our online shop. Visit our shop

Is it safe to be in a car during a thunderstorm?

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Cars in ThunderstormThe Met Office currently has an amber weather warning spanning across the Midlands and Wales. Thunderstorms accompanied by torrential rain, frequent lightning and some hail have been reported. Although thunderstorms are not prolific in the UK, as with all weather systems, it is a hot topic when they do occur. Some discuss Thunderstorms with exhilaration but many people also feel anxious or fearful of the dangers involved. The big question then is where are you safest whilst a thunderstorm is in progress?

Simply put, the safest place to be in a thunderstorm is indoors. If lightning does happen to directly strike a house or a building, it will tend to follow the available paths to ground, including the wiring, plumbing, antennas and/or steel framework. But if no structural shelter is available, hard-topped cars can offer sufficient lightning protection.

What happens when lightning strikes a car?

Many people believe that it is the rubber tyres on cars that keep you safe in the event of a lightning strike, this however is a bit of a myth. In actual fact a car (excluding soft tops) acts like a faraday cage with the lightning flowing around the car. The majority of the current flows from the car’s metal cage into the ground below. This is why cars are often referred to as being a safe place to be in a thunderstorm, if you cannot get indoors.

But if your car does get hit by lightning in a thunderstorm, you probably would see damage to the vehicle as a result. Most lightning incidents to cars result in external damage, as well as internal damage to electronic systems, but in most cases no injury to the people inside.

So in summary, if you are stuck outdoors in a thunderstorm then your car is a pretty safe place to go and take shelter. Just remember, try to avoid touching anything metal within the car and try not to use electrical components within the car such as radios or charging points for phones. But above all enjoy the beauty of a thunderstorm, they really don’t happen that often in the UK.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide safety advice. We take no responsibility for any outcomes of people who read and follow any of the above information.

Should I use an exhaust wrap?

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Bronze titanium exhaust wrap An exhaust wrap is a fantastic heat protection product. In addition to making your header look great exhaust wraps also give you performance enhancements. You will see a reduction in temperatures around the exhaust resulting in more horsepower.

This increase in horsepower is down to increased engine efficiency. The exhaust wrap keeps heat in the header instead of it dissipating around the engine.

BUY EXHAUST WRAPS HERE

Exhaust wraps impact on performance

When heat is contained in the exhaust it improves the flow of exhaust gasses throughout the entire system. The faster exhaust gasses move, the more power you’ll receive. In a dyno test by Hot Rod Magazine they found exhaust wraps significantly reduced engine temperatures.

Viper Exhaust wrapsHow to install an exhaust wrap

Installing exhaust wraps on your motorcycle exhaust or car manifold is simple. Grab one of our exhaust wraps which come in different roll sizes. To fasten your exhaust wrap, you may also require stainless steel cable ties. Each order comes with 5 stainless steel cable ties for free! We also have packs of 20 or 100 cable ties available to buy.

Viper Exhaust Wraps

Different wrap roll sizes are available to suit your application. We offer 2 grades of exhaust wrap here at Viper Performance:

1 – Fiber Glass exhaust wraps for 550°C – For Manifold available in Natural or Black.

2 – Titanium exhaust wraps 700°C – For Manifold available in a very attractive Bronze colour.

For more information or to purchase your exhaust wrap please click here.

How our products can work together

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aluminium pipes and silicone hosesOur online shop allows for single purchases of silicone hoses and aluminium pipes but our products are showcased at there best when combined. By joining our aluminium pipes and silicone hoses you can achieve any shape.

We have an extensive range of silicone hose elbows to acquire the correct angles and have straight length hoses up to 4 meters. Our aluminium range consists of a range of elbow hose joiners, straight connectors and reducing pieces.

This flexibility means that you can create bespoke Intercoolers, Radiators, Air induction, Superchargers, intercooler systems. You can do this from stock pieces via our online shop, or if you are a fabricator or distributor then we can discuss bespoke options. We also stock hose clamps to make securing the sections together seamless. Click here to view our clamps.

Silicone and Aluminium Parts for fabricators

Silicone Hoses and Aluminium Pipes

We know from experience that our parts offer fabricators the opportunity to create great pieces of kit to re sell. An exceptionally high quality, and reliable product (lifetime warranty on hoses) means that our trade customers are never disappointed.

You will find the largest range of shapes, sizes, and diameters available immediately in stock. From enquiry to finished delivered product, you will receive the level of service you expect from a professional company, with all of our attention focused on quality and customer satisfaction. Confidentiality and integrity is always assured. We are also able to put your branding onto our silicone hoses, which is something other manufactures are not willing to do.

 

If you are after one off parts to work together head over to our online shop and view our stock of silicone hoses and aluminium pipes.

If you are a fabricator or distributor interested in working with us here at Viper Performance we would love to hear from you please give us a call on 01952 670 702.

How to prepare your car for the summer

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Most people understand that preparing your car for the winter months is essential for safety, but do you prepare for summer too? Heat and dust can take a toll on your vehicle and impact its ability to perform. As well as the regular checks, which you should do periodically, there are season specific things that you can you do to ensure your car is ready and prepped for the sunshine.

Check your cooling system

One of the biggest dangers whilst driving in the summer is of course overheating. Ensure that your cooling system is properly topped up with the right mix of coolant and water, and ensure that your vehicle’s water is properly filled. Another element to check is air intakes, be sure to check that they are free from debris and dirt, blockages may contribute to overheating problems.

Change Oil on older cars

If you have a relatively new car then it should be fine to run on the same kind of oil all year round. Older cars however may benefit from an oil change in the summer. Heavier oils will help compensate for internal engine wear and offer better protection for your engine in higher temperatures.

Change Air Filters

Large amounts of pollen can clog up your ventilation systems, as well as upsetting hay fever suffering passengers. Air filters are very easy to replace and you can even purchase washable or reusable filters. Be sure to check the cabin filter too, stopping the internal air from becoming stuffy.

Regularly turn on Air Conditioning

Lack of use can mean that air conditioning does not operate at its maximum output when you need it most. This is why it is important to regularly turn on your AC at all times of year. If you haven’t turned on your air con for a long time then make it today.

Summer Tyres

Summer can be as tough on your tyres as the winter months. Sunlight and heat can work in tandem to break down the rubber. You can choose all season tyres of course but they do tend to be a compromise. The ideal situation is to use wider wheels and summer tyres in the sunshine months and keep your hardwearing winter tyres stored for when they are needed most.

It’s best to be proactive and ensure your car is safe to run to avoid any unwanted breakdowns or damage to parts. When you’re happy with the cars condition why not check out our recent blog showing some of the best UK driving roads and really test out your wheels.

Disclaimer: This blog is for guidance only. If you feel there are any issues with your vehicle in preparation for summer please seek the expert advice of a garage.

Some of the UK’s Best Driving Roads

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Best UK driving roadsSo finally it looks like we are about to descend into summer. What better way to celebrate than to jump in the car and enjoy the beauty of the UK and some of its fine roads. To help you along the way we’ve scoured the internet to find some of the best driving roads for your enjoyment. So get your driving playlist ready, and lets hit play:

Hardknott Pass

Image courtesy of dangerousroads.org

1. Hardknott Pass, the Lake District
As I can testify this is not a road for the faint-hearted. This one is for confident drivers, many drivers will agree that the contours of a map fail to capture the reality of the roads. Described by Alfred Wainwright as “a heart-stopping series of sharp and narrow hairpin bends.” This is has to be one of the UK’s most thrilling (or terrifying) roads to drive. Click here for route

Snake Pass

Image courtesy of drivingforpleasure.co.uk

2. The Snake Pass, Peak District
Snake pass is the name of the A57 road where it crosses the Peak District, between Manchester and Sheffield. The name usually refers to the section between Glossop and Ladybower reservoir. The Snake Pass was listed as one of the best driving roads by Auto Trader magazine in 2009. Its apt name matches the winding nature of this route. Drivers will enjoy superb scenery, particularly at the start of the descent into Glossop. Click here for a route

Llanberis Pss

Image courtesy of drivingforpleasure.co.uk

3. The Llanberis Pass, Wales
If its stunning scenery that you’re pining for then get behind the wheel and head to Wales. Llanberis Pass is the road, which takes you from the village of Capel Curig to Caernarfon. Mountains and crystal clear lakes will be your backdrop on this incredible drive. You and your passengers will find yourself escorted by the lake for over a mile until you meet miles of gentle gradients and easy corners. This isn’t a road for the speed demon but rather those looking to take a calmer pace and fully appreciate the beauty that nature has carved for your enjoyment. Click here for a route

Loch Lomond4. Glasgow to Fort William
Running approximately 140 miles this is a run for those who love a long stint in the car. The A82 is the principal route from Lowland Scotland to the western Scottish Highlands. Passing along the shores of Loch Lomond, Loch Ness and in the shadow of Ben Nevis this is a picturesque drive. Click here for a route

St Ives5. St Ives to St Just
If you’re looking to enjoy some of the South West’s finest then take a look at the B3306 from St Ives to St Just. You can expect to enjoy 13 miles of sweeping bends, short straights and tight turns and the views aren’t too shabby either. This one does require full concentration from the beginning and a keen eye for walkers, bikers and livestock. But get it right and it will make you feel alive like few other roads in the UK. Click here for a route

What is Platinum Cured Silicone?

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In a platinum-based silicone cure system two different chemical groups react in the presence of platinum. Unlike the traditional Peroxide cured materials Platinum Cured Silicone does not use peroxides as part of the catalysing process. These can sometimes leave trace elements after post cure causing contamination.

As a result Platinum Curing is becoming a more popular choice in many industries including medical, food, drink or dairy applications.

Benefits of platinum cured silicone

There are a range of benefits when choosing platinum cured silicone over alternatives:

  • High tear strength
  • excellent translucency so more visibility through the material
  • non yellowing
  • no peroxide by-products
  • highly hydrophobic
  • extended life in Peristaltic pumps

Platinum cured silicone applications

Due to its advantages as listed above there are many industries now seeking platinum cured silicone products. These include:

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology applications; platinum-cured silicone tubing is an excellent choice for fluid transfer. Its high temperature resistance and fewer potential leachables make it a perfect fit for medical use. Silicone maintains the purity of sensitive fluids due to its excellent biocompatibility and chemical inertness . This type of tubing has smooth surfaces and lower protein binding levels which is another selling point for this particular application.

Food and Drink applications; platinum-cured silicone tubing has revolutionised the transfer of liquids in drinks machines. Traditional peroxide-cured silicone tubing can impair the taste of liquids due to tainting, platinium cured tubing does not have this down side. It’s high tensile strength also means that it’s an ideal fit for food industries.

Dairy applications; Platinum cured silicone is ideal for use in the dairy industry due to its high mechanical wear and excellent tear strength. In comparison to conventional black rubber tubing often used for milking, platinum cured tubes do not harden and corrode with use. Instead, this extremely durable product is made using highly polished dies to create an extra smooth inner bore to improve flow rate and hygeine levels.

Viper Performance products

Here at Viper we supply only the highest quality platinum grade silicone available on the market, with a very high level of purity. Sold here in 5 Meter continuous lengths. Click here to read a blog all about our FDA Platinum Silicone Tubing and find out how to buy yours.

Our FDA Platinum Silicone Tube

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We recently wrote a blog about the benefits of platinum cured silicone, it is clear to see why many industries are now seeking this material. We are always looking to meet the needs of the market and therefore we now have FDA Platinum Silicone Tube available in a number of sizes.

Here at Viper we use the highest quality Platinum grade silicone available on the market, with a very high level of purity.

As we stated in our recent blog the advantages of platinum curing are:

– Non yellowing
– No peroxide by-products
– High tear strength
– High gloss finish
– Excellent quality
– Highly hydrophobic
– Extended life in Peristaltic pumps

We sell the tubing in 5 Meter continuous lengths, by purchasing multiples, they will be continuous up to 25 meters.

Click here to buy this product online

Cutting through steel braided hoses

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We recently wrote a piece about how to cut silicone hoses, but then someone asked the question, what about braided hoses?

If you have cut steel braiding before you may have found yourself with split or frayed edges. On our website we sell specialist heavy duty braided hose cutters which will eliminate this problem. They will effortlessly slice through those braided fuel and hydraulic fluid hoses in seconds.

These hose cutters are built from solid steel and are very sharp. The long reach handles on these cutters will help to cut through large hoses up to sizes of AN-16 in nitrile or PTFE. Hydraulic hose cutting tool comes with easy grip rubber handles.

Click here to buy this specialist product today. Or if you want to see the cutters in action take a look at the Youtube video below: