From automotive to construction, the many (many) benefits of silicone hoses!

Silicone is a versatile material that has found a wide range of applications in various industries. The dependable and quality components of silicone make it an excellent material for a variety of applications, from construction and automotive, all the way to industrial applications to name a few.

Construction and Engineering

Silicone is widely used in construction and engineering. They provide a waterproof, airtight, and flexible seal that can withstand extreme temperatures, UV radiation, and weathering. Their durable properties are favoured as they help provide longevity to production projects, whereas their ability to withstand those extreme temperatures make them a common appliance in many climates and construction applications.

Automotive Industry

The automotive industry is one of the primary users of silicone hoses. They are used in high-performance engines to transfer air, coolant, and other fluids. Silicone hoses are preferred over other types of hoses because they are more durable and can withstand high temperatures and extreme pressures. They are used in a variety of automotive applications, including turbochargers, intercoolers, radiators, and air intake systems.

Food and Beverage Industry

Silicone hoses can regularly be found in the food and beverage industry, being used in various applications such as food & beverage dispensing. As long as the silicone used is FDA approved, using specific platinum curing methods, silicone can be incredibly effective, given its resistance to high temperatures, allowing it to withstand harsh cleaning chemicals, while also making them easy to clean and maintain. With this in mind it’s important to choose a supplier that is approved & trustworthy. Viper Performance offer a range of silicone hoses that are FDA approved and ready to be sent out.

Rail Industry

In the rail industry, silicone can be especially effective, due to its unique properties and characteristics. For starters thanks to it’s excellent electrical insulation, it can be used in electrical connectors, cables and wires, ensuring reliable and safe electrical connections. Silicone can also have good resistance to high temperatures, which is beneficial in the rail industry where components can be exposed to heat generated by the friction of trains or nearby engines. Viper Performance, offer a range of silicone products with low toxicity grade components, another vital component in rail industry manufacturing.

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One of the major concerns that people have about electric cars is their range which is the fear of running out of battery power before reaching your destination, especially in rural areas where there is a lower abundance of available EV charging points. However, with advancements in battery technology, many electric cars are now able to travel further distances than ever before.

One of the current leaders in the electric car range is the Tesla Model S Long Range, which can travel up to 405 miles on a single charge. This is significantly more than many of the other electric cars currently in the market. The Model S Long Range uses a 100 kWh battery pack. Tesla has also designed the Model S to be more aerodynamic, which helps to increase its range, while also giving you the option of greater speed.

Surprisingly (not), the best of the rest feature a further 2 Tesla EV’s. Including the Tesla Model X Long Range: The Model X is an all-electric SUV that can travel up to 371 miles on a single charge. It uses the same 100 kWh battery pack as the Model S Long Range and like it’s big brother it has been designed to be aerodynamic. The other Tesla is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range: The Model 3 is Tesla’s entry-level electric car and can travel up to 358 miles on a single charge. Unlike the Model X & S, the Model 3 uses a 75 kWh battery pack, lower than it’s compatriots.

Also included is America’s favourite Ford Mustang, and there Mach-E, an all-electric SUV that can travel up to 305 miles on a single charge. It uses a 98.8 kWh battery pack and is designed to be both stylish and practical.

Now the moment you’ve been waiting for (drumroll please). One of the UK’s newest market debutantes. The Lucid Air is a new electric car from Lucid Motors that has an estimated range of up to 516 miles on a single charge (which is a lot of miles). This is significantly more than any other electric car currently on the market!!! The Lucid Air uses a 113 kWh battery pack, which is currently the largest available in any production electric car. Having entered the market in late 2022 / early 2023, don’t expect to see too many of these on our roads (yet), however with prices starting at around £60,000, you may find yourself paying considerably less than when compared to Lucid Motors American cousins, Tesla.

Elon Musk & Tesla’s days of being range and performance leaders are nearing an end. With new starters cropping up every month, it’s not hard to imagine seeing the Lucid Air overtaken, will it be a newcomer such as VinFast from Singapore, or DeLorean (very cool name may we add), time will tell…

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Why your new project should choose carbon fibre over aluminium and much more!

Carbon fibre and aluminium are two materials that are commonly used in manufacturing products in various industries. While aluminium has been the traditional choice for many applications, carbon fibre has emerged as a popular alternative due to its many benefits.

Strength

Carbon fibre pipes can be much stronger than aluminium, making it ideal for use in applications where strength is critical. It has a strength that is up to 10 times higher than aluminium, which means it can withstand much greater forces without breaking or deforming. This makes carbon fibre ideal for use in high-performance products such as sports equipment, aircraft, and automotive components where under-performing strength can have detrimental impacts.

Durability & cost-effectiveness

Carbon fibre pipes is highly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures, impacts, and vibrations. This makes it ideal for use in products that are subjected to harsh conditions, such as aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment. Products made from carbon fibre can last much longer than those made from aluminium, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements, which again will help with staying cost-effective with 1 carbon fibre pipe possibly lasting considerably longer than an aluminium tube. This’ll inevitably cut down on the costs of new purchases, while also cutting-down on the costs associated with maintenance.

Lightweight

Despite all of these factors one of the most significant benefits of carbon fibre over aluminium is its lightweight construction. Carbon fibre is about 40% lighter than aluminium, which means products made from carbon fibre such as carbon fibre pipes can be much lighter and more manoeuvrable than those made from aluminium. This makes carbon fibre ideal in high performance industries including motorsports. Lighter vehicles are much more likely to be quicker, giving the user an edge over their competition. Aerospace industries also benefit from using carbon fibre over aluminium, by reducing weight, giving the aeroplane a greater distance allowing for more destinations, while more importantly also cutting down on fuel costs, both of which produce lower costs and higher profits for airlines.

Overall while aluminium most definitely has its benefits, carbon fibre pipes and piping can prove to be a very effective short and long term solution. Not only are you provided with greater overall quality in the short term, in the long term you could possibly save money on maintenance costs thanks to the greater durability.

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Can silicone & silicone hoses be eco-friendly?

In an ever-environmentally conscious planet, when choosing materials for manufacturing and everyday use, it is important to know that the materials used are both environmentally and financially friendly. Silicone in particular has stood out achieving both, winning plaudits for its versatility to ever changing consumer habits.

One of the key advantages of silicone is that it is extremely long-lasting. Unlike many other materials, silicone does not break down easily and can withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal material for use in a range of products.

Thanks to its ability to withstand higher temperatures, silicone is a favoured material in the manufacturing of automotive/industrial hoses. For example Silicone hoses are ideal for applications such as radiator/coolant hoses, boost / turbo hoses and any other uses that require air/liquid passage. When looked after properly they can last very long time, meaning you don’t need to replace the hose as often, compared to using lower-quality materials.

Another eco-friendly aspect of silicone is its versatility. Because it can be used in so many different applications, silicone can help to reduce the need for multiple materials, potentially reducing the overall environmental impact of manufacturing and production. Silicone Hoses are regularly used in the ‘Renewable Energy’ market to further create an environmentally friendly life cycle.

If you are looking to upgrade to Silicone Hoses in your application please check our wide range of silicone hose products here.

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Does your fuel/oil project require a silicone hose? Look no further.

When dealing with fuels such as oil, it’s incredibly important that you choose a fuel hose that provides the quality needed to ensure both reliability to ensure any unwanted accidents or issues, while also looking at the performance, to ensure quality of the fuel application and also increase longevity and value for money. At Viper Performance we have a wide variety of fuel friendly hose applications, including our oil resistant silicone hoses & flexible nitrile fuel filler hoses…

Both products offer solutions to a wide variety of fuel applications (confused which hose is right for the fuel you are using? Check out this handy compatibility chart below).

Fluoro lined hoses are especially compatible for oil applications, with heavy oil mists or oil flows, while fluoro silicone hoses offer fuel resistant properties and can work as fuel filler hoses. Braided silicone hoses can be especially useful when working with fuel lines and have great applications in those areas. The majority of our fuel resistant hoses are made with fluoro liner, but are limited by stock so be sure to email us for a production run of a specific size.

If you are looking for added flexibility, the flexible nitrile fuel filler hoses are made with nitrile liner, with an added wire helix embedded between, giving It additional flexibility, making it a perfect replacement for difficult fuel filler hoses.

At Viper Performance, quality is always put first, that’s how we are able to offer such a wide range of fuel friendly hoses, backed by an array of quality 5* reviews, from customers who have come time and time again for our quality and great value for money.

Looking for silicone hoses for your project or application? Check out our full range of high-quality silicone hoses here.

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The automobile industry has been revolutionized by the introduction of electric cars. In recent years, the demand for electric cars has increased significantly, and the industry is set to see some exciting new models in 2023 as more and more manufacturers attempt to enter this market. With all of this we take a look at our most exciting upcoming electric car of 2023!

Now this wouldn’t even be a discussion if we didn’t mention Tesla… The Tesla Cybertruck is expected to make it’s long-awaited debut this year (hence our excitement), unless it is delayed (again), and is easily our most anticipated electric car of the year. With its bold design and impressive capabilities, the Cybertruck is set to change the game for pickup trucks.

To truly understand our excitement, you must know that the Cybertruck is incredibly powerful. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds, which is faster than most sports cars on the market today. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who needs a powerful vehicle for towing or hauling heavy loads. (Did we say it can tow up to 14,000 pounds)!

The Cybertruck also has impressive range capabilities. It can travel up to 500 miles on a single charge, which is more than enough for most people’s daily commutes. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs.

Another key capability of the Cybertruck is its durability. It is made from ultra-hard 30X cold-rolled stainless steel and features armoured glass windows, which makes it incredibly tough and resistant to damage (unless you are Elon Musk throwing a brick). This makes it an ideal choice for anyone who needs a vehicle that can withstand tough conditions, such as construction sites or off-road environments.

The Cybertruck also has some unique features that set it apart from traditional pickup trucks. For example, it has a retractable tonneau cover that can be used to protect cargo from the elements. It also has a built-in air compressor and power outlets that can be used to power tools and other equipment.

Now as excited as we are for the Cybetruck, there are a wide range of equally exciting upcoming EV’s, here’s our pick of the best of the rest..

Audi Q6 e-tron:

The Audi Q6 e-tron is an all-electric SUV that promises to be a game-changer in the luxury electric car market. It will be powered by a 95 kWh battery pack, providing it with a range of over 330 miles on a single charge. The car will feature all-wheel drive, and Audi is aiming for a top speed of 112 mph. The Q6 e-tron will also come with advanced safety features, including a suite of cameras and sensors that will help drivers avoid accidents.

BMW iX5:

BMW’s latest electric car, the iX5, is set to be released in 2023. Will also come with BMW’s latest advanced driver assistance technology, including lane departure warnings and automated emergency braking. The iX5 will also feature a spacious interior, with room for up to five passengers.

Mercedes-Benz EQE:

The Mercedes-Benz EQE is a new luxury sedan that will be released in 2023. It will be powered by a 90 kWh battery pack, providing it with a range of over 300 miles on a single charge. The car will feature a sleek, modern design, with a spacious and luxurious interior. It will also come with advanced driver assistance technology, including lane keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking.

What an exciting time to be an electric car fanatic…

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The age-old question beckons, how are carbon fibre pipes made?

Carbon fibre pipes are typically manufactured using a process called filament winding. Here are the detailed steps involved:

Preparing the mandrel: A mandrel, which is a cylindrical tool, is prepared with the required dimensions and shape for the carbon fibre pipe. It is made of materials such as aluminium, steel or plastic and is usually coated with a release agent to prevent the pipe from sticking to it.

Preparing the carbon fibre: The carbon fibre is typically in the form of a woven fabric or unidirectional tow. The fibres are impregnated with a resin, usually epoxy, which is mixed with a hardener to form a tough, durable composite material.

Filament winding: The impregnated carbon fibre is wound around the mandrel in a specific pattern using a filament winding machine. The machine rotates the mandrel while a filament winding head guides the carbon fibre onto the mandrel. The winding pattern is chosen based on the required properties of the finished pipe, such as strength, stiffness, and durability.

Curing: Once the desired number of layers of carbon fibre has been wound onto the mandrel, the pipe is heated to cure the resin. The curing process is typically done in an oven or autoclave, depending on the specific resin used. The heat and pressure applied during the curing process help to bond the fibres and resin together, creating a strong, durable composite material.

Finishing: Once the curing process is complete, the carbon fibre pipe is removed from the mandrel. It may then undergo additional finishing processes such as sanding or polishing to achieve the desired surface finish. The ends of the pipe may also be trimmed or machined to the required dimensions.

Quality control: The finished carbon fibre pipe is inspected for defects and undergoes testing to ensure it meets the required specifications for strength, stiffness, and durability.

Overall, carbon fibre pipes are made using a precise and controlled manufacturing process to ensure high-quality, consistent performance.

Looking for carbon fibre pipes for your project or application? Check out our full range of high-quality carbon fibre pipes here.

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Quality is paramount, but what do carbon fibre pipes really do?

Carbon fibre pipes are a type of lightweight and strong material that has become increasingly popular in recent years. They are made by weaving carbon fibres together into a rigid structure, which is then reinforced with epoxy resin. The resulting material is incredibly strong and durable, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

One of the major applications of carbon fibre pipes is in the automotive industry. Here, they are used in everything from racing cars to everyday vehicles. Carbon fibre pipes are ideal for use in racing cars, where weight reduction is crucial to achieving high speeds and agility. They are also used in the production of high-end sports cars, where their strength and durability make them ideal for use in everything from body panels to suspension components.

Carbon fibre pipes are also used extensively in the construction industry. They are commonly used in the construction of bridges and other large structures, where their strength and durability make them ideal for use in everything from support beams to reinforcement rods. They are also used in the production of wind turbines, where their lightweight and high-strength properties make them ideal for use in everything from rotor blades to tower structures.

The marine industry is another area where carbon fibre pipes are commonly used. They are ideal for use in boats and other watercraft, where their strength and resistance to corrosion make them ideal for use in everything from hulls to masts. They are also used in the production of offshore oil rigs and other marine structures, where their strength and durability make them ideal for use in harsh environments.

When compared to other materials such as silicone, carbon fibre offers a high strength-to-weight ratio that makes it particularly beneficial in industries that require high quality for performance, while also keeping weight down. Such as Formula 1 where we are seeing more and more teams adopt carbon fibre as a material for increased performance & competitiveness.

Interested in discovering our carbon fibre pipe range? Check it out here.

Can our silicone hoses really be made in any colour?

Here at Viper Performance, we stock a wide range of high-quality silicone hoses that can be pigmented or dyed to achieve a wide range of colours, however there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind when choosing if to dye your silicone hoses:

1. Lightfastness: Some pigments and dyes may not be able to withstand prolonged exposure to UV light or high temperatures, which can cause the colour of your silicone hose to fade or change over time.

2. Chemical resistance: Certain colours or dyes may not be compatible with certain chemicals or fluids, which can cause the colour to break down or leach out of the material.

3. Cost: Some pigments or dyes may be more expensive than others, which can affect the overall cost of the silicone hose and it’s material. Pigments (Masterbatch) are purchased in minimum quantities from our pigment suppliers, then the colour mixing process (milling) must be manufactured in batches of 20kg minimum.  It is not cost-effective to process a custom or special colour unless there is a substantial volume order for silicone hoses in that colour. For more information please be sure to check out our FAQ.

4. Availability: Not all colours may be readily available for every type of silicone material or manufacturing process. Custom colour options may be limited or require longer lead times. For more information please feel free to contact us

5. Performance: Some pigments may affect the mechanical or physical properties of the silicone material, such as its flexibility or tensile strength. This can impact the overall performance and lifespan of the silicone hose. When choosing a colour it’s important to take that into account, for performance questions be sure to get in touch with us and our experienced team.

It’s important to work with a reputable silicone hose manufacturer who can help you choose the best colour options for your specific application and ensure the material meets your performance and durability requirements.

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Electric cars have become increasingly popular over the past few years as people look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and improve air quality, spearheaded by rising fuel costs & more attention to environmental issues. In the UK, the number of electric cars on the road has been steadily increasing, going just 134 registered EVs in the country in 2011, to over 550,000 today. With this growth largely driven by government incentives, improvements in battery technology, and growing consumer demand.

According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), there are currently over 550,000 electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads in the UK. This includes battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Of these, around 435,000 are pure EVs, meaning they run solely on electricity and have no internal combustion engine. The remaining 115,000 are PHEVs, which have a combination of an electric motor and a petrol or diesel engine.

One major factor driving the growth of the EV market in the UK is the increasing availability of charging infrastructure. There are now over 25,000 public charging points in the country, with plans to increase this number to 70,000 by 2030. This has helped to address one of the main concerns for EV buyers which has restricted orders in the past.

In addition to government incentives and charging infrastructure, there has been a growing awareness among consumers of the need to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change. Many people are choosing to switch to electric cars as a way to reduce their environmental impact and make a positive contribution to the planet.

Despite the growth in the market, however, electric cars still represent a relatively small proportion of all vehicles on the roads in the UK. According to the SMMT, EVs made up just 2.3% of all new car registrations in 2020.

While EVs still represent a relatively small proportion of all vehicles on the roads, the market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more people become aware of the benefits of electric cars, more models become available, and prices steadily decrease. As the UK aims to reach its net-zero emissions target by 2050, the growth of the EV market will play an important role.