Product Review: Heavy Duty Anti-Static Flexible PU Ducting (Protape PUR 333 AS)

We started offering the Protape PUR 333 AS because so many of our customers were struggling with static build-up in dust extraction systems, especially in workshops and industrial environments where flammable or fine particles are involved. This ducting was developed to solve exactly that problem: providing a reliable, flexible solution that reduces static discharge.
Over the years, we’ve supplied this product to woodworking, grain milling, chemical handling, and pharmaceutical processing businesses. It’s become a go-to option for those looking for a long-lasting hose that performs well under abrasive conditions.
This hose is made from ether-based polyurethane (PUR) and reinforced with a spring steel wire helix. It handles temperatures between -40°C and +90°C, and can briefly withstand up to +125°C, which gives it a wide operating range. The material is halogen-free, which is something many of our industrial clients specifically ask for.

Available Sizes

We stock this antistatic ducting in a range of sizes to suit different setups:

What We Like Most

From what we’ve seen, the PUR 333 AS is one of the most durable antistatic hoses we supply. It’s highly flexible, even in tight spaces, and holds up very well under tough conditions. We often recommend it when customers need something that can handle abrasive dust – things like sawdust, grain, or powder.
Standout Features:

Antistatic coating: Keeps systems safe when properly grounded.
Abrasion-resistant: In our experience, it lasts much longer than standard PVC ducting.
Good transparency: Makes it easy to visually inspect the material flow.
Flexible & lightweight: Our customers appreciate how easy it is to install, especially in workshop settings.
Wide temperature range: We’ve seen it perform consistently in cold storage and high-heat extraction systems.

One of our clients in the timber trade told us this hose massively reduced their system blockages and downtime compared to their previous ducting. It’s those kinds of real-world results that keep it one of our top recommendations.

What Could Be Better

Like any product, this one has its limitations. Here’s what we’ve noticed or heard from customers:

Cost: It’s more expensive than basic PVC hoses, which can be a hurdle for smaller operations.
Bend radius on large sizes: The 150mm version, for example, isn’t as flexible as the smaller diameters, so it takes a bit more planning during install.
Chemical compatibility: While it’s great for dust and dry particles, it’s not suitable for aggressive chemicals or solvents – so we always advise checking before use in those environments.

Common Questions We Get

Q: Is this ducting food-grade?
This version isn’t certified for food use. If that’s something you need, we can point you toward our food-safe PUR ducting alternatives.
Q: How flexible is it?
It’s very flexible for its build quality. The smaller sizes are especially easy to handle. For anything over 125mm, some customers find they need a bit more clearance during install.
Q: Can I use it with high suction or vacuum pressure?
It’s fine for standard dust extraction systems, but if you’re running a high vacuum setup, we’d usually recommend something reinforced for that purpose.

Alternatives We Recommend

We often compare the PUR 333 AS with the following options when helping customers choose:

Protape PUR 330 AS

Cheaper and slightly more flexible
Not as tough when it comes to abrasion
Better for light-duty extraction setups

PVC Wire Reinforced Antistatic Ducting

Budget-friendly
Good for non-abrasive, general ventilation
Doesn’t last as long under mechanical wear

PUR 356 AS – Heavy Duty

Built for heavy suction and pressure
Less flexible and higher cost
Great when durability is the top concern

For most of our regular customers, the 333 AS strikes the right balance between durability, safety, and ease of use.

About Us

This review was written by Enya Kerry at the team here at Ducting Express, where we’ve been helping businesses across the UK with ducting and extraction solutions for over a decade. We’ve tested and supplied these products in real workshop and industrial settings, so our recommendations are based on experience, not guesswork.

About the Reviewer

Enya Kerry is our Office Manager with over four years of industry experience. Enya plays a key role in the operations at Ducting Express. As a qualified LEV Engineer, having successfully completed both the W201 and P601 certifications, she delivers practical and effective support to customers and the Ducting Express team. Enya excels in guiding customers towards the most effective solutions for their ducting needs, combining her engineering knowledge with a commitment to excellent service as part of the Ducting Express office team.

3 months ago