Multi-layer tubing having electrostatic dissipation for handling hydrocarbon fluids

摘要

An elongated multi-layer tubing is disclosed for connection to a motor vehicle system to handle fluids containing hydrocarbons. The tubing includes a first layer disposed radially innermost and having an inner surface capable of prolonged exposure to a fluid containing hydrocarbons and an outer surface spaced a first predetermined radial thickness from the inner surface, the first layer consisting essentially of an extrudable, melt-processible thermoplastic. The tubing also includes a second layer having a second predetermined radial thickness at most equal to the thickness of the first layer. The second layer is uniformly and homogeneously connected to or bonded to the first layer and consists essentially of an extrudable, melt-processible thermoplastic capable of sufficiently permanent laminar adhesion with the first layer to prevent delamination during a desired lifetime of the tubing. At least one of the first and second layers is resistant to permeation by hydrocarbons. The tubing includes a third layer having a third predetermined radial thickness greater than the thickness of the first layer. The third layer is capable of sufficiently permanent laminar adhesion to the second layer to prevent delamination during said desired lifetime of said tubing. The third layer is uniformly and homogeneously connected to or bonded to the second layer and consists essentially of an extrudable, melt-processible thermoplastic. At least one layer of the tubing is capable of dissipating electrostatic energy in a range between about 10-4 to 10-9 Ohm/cm2.