Description
Keep components visible while adding a tough protective cover. This clear polycarbonate tube combines glass-like transparency with high impact strength, so it can go where glass or more brittle plastics may fail. Choose from 100 outer and inner diameter combinations from 8mm to 250mm OD, each available in 500mm, 1000mm or 2000mm lengths, so you only buy the length your project needs.
Why buy from Plastics Co UK
- 246 size and length combinations in one listing: pick the OD, bore and length from the selectors above.
- Shorter lengths available: 500mm and 1000mm tubes cut waste and shipping cost on small jobs.
- Thin-wall to heavy-wall options: wall thickness from 1mm to 5mm, depending on diameter.
- Prices include VAT, with no hidden extras; delivery is shown at checkout.
- Bulk and custom quotes: need more lengths or a size you can't see? Ask us for a quote.
- UK support by phone on 01744 520110 to help you choose the right size.
Features and benefits
- Transparent tube for visibility of contents or internal components.
- Impact-resistant material for protective covers and guards, reducing the risk of breakage compared with glass.
- Multiple bore and wall-thickness combinations to match clearance, strength and weight requirements.
- Lightweight yet rigid, making handling, installation and support easier than equivalent glass tubing.
- Smooth inner and outer surfaces for good light transmission and easy cleaning.
- Can be cut, drilled and fabricated with standard workshop tools for bespoke projects.
Ordering specifications
| Material | Clear polycarbonate |
|---|---|
| Colour | Clear (transparent) |
| Size (OD x ID) | 100 listed combinations, 8mm OD x 6mm ID up to 250mm OD x 240mm ID; choose the exact dimensions in the selector above. |
| Wall thickness | 1mm to 5mm, depending on size: (OD − ID) ÷ 2 |
| Length | 500mm, 1000mm or 2000mm (not every size is offered in every length; the selector shows what is available) |
| Form | Rigid cylindrical extruded tube, smooth bore and outer surface |
| Approximate density | 1.2 g/cm³ (used for the shipping weights shown at checkout) |
Only the combinations offered in the selectors can be ordered online. All dimensions are nominal; ask us to confirm tolerances or a required grade before ordering.
How to choose your size
- Start with the outer diameter (OD) if the tube must fit into a hole, clip or fitting.
- Start with the inner diameter (ID) if the tube must slide over a rod, cable, lamp or other part. Allow clearance.
- Pick the wall thickness: thin walls (1–2mm) are lighter and clearer for covers and displays. Thicker walls (3–5mm) are stiffer for guards, sleeves and longer unsupported spans.
- Pick the length: choose the next length up from your finished size and cut to length.
Typical wall thickness by size
| OD range | Typical walls offered |
|---|---|
| 8mm – 20mm | 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm |
| 22mm – 50mm | 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm |
| 60mm – 150mm | 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm |
| 160mm – 250mm | 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm |
Pack size and pricing
The price shown is for one tube of the selected size and length. Where an option names a pack quantity, the price is for that complete pack. To compare unit prices, divide the selected pack price by its stated quantity. Changing size, wall thickness or length changes the price.
Applications
- Display cylinders and point-of-sale stands
- Lighting covers, LED housings and light diffusers
- Protective sleeves, guards and covers around moving parts or delicate components
- Sight tubes and level indicators for non-pressurised tanks and reservoirs
- Model making, prototyping and custom fabrication
- Architectural details and decorative installations
Working with polycarbonate tube
Cut with a fine-toothed saw or a mitre saw with a suitable blade. Support the tube firmly, cut slowly to avoid chipping, and de-burr the edges after cutting.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the correct size?
Check all dimensions and the length in the selectors before adding to your basket. OD means outer diameter; ID means bore diameter. Wall thickness is (OD − ID) ÷ 2.
Can I order a custom size or a bulk quantity?
Request a quote with the material, dimensions and quantity. We will confirm availability, price and lead time.
Is this suitable for my application?
Match the grade to your operating conditions. Contact us for confirmation where food contact, fire performance, outdoor exposure or another certification is required. This listing does not provide a pressure rating; do not specify it as pressure pipe without a documented manufacturer rating.
Can it be used outdoors?
It can be used in outdoor or sheltered outdoor settings, but long-term direct sunlight and weathering may affect its appearance over time. For demanding outdoor use, add protection or shelter to get the longest service life.
Delivery, returns and support
Delivery charges are shown at checkout. Delivery dates are quoted subject to material availability. Check our delivery policy and returns policy before ordering, especially for custom-cut items. For UK customer support, call 01744 520110.
Choose your size and length above, then add to basket.
Compare related options: Polycarbonate Rods & Tubes · Polycarbonate Tubes.
All sizes & prices
246 sizes · prices include VAT · tap a price to select that size
8mm
13mm
18mm
24mm
26mm
28mm
35mm
44mm
45mm
64mm
75mm
134mm
140mm
160mm
Need a size that isn't listed? We cut to order. Request a quote or call 01744 520110.
Supplying UK engineers, manufacturers and public bodies
