SCAT instead of CAT for defrost?

[Shadrach]

The CAT tube that to our defrost has deteriorated. I be don’t think it’s much over 10 years old but already deteriorating. Is there any downside to using SCAT instead? Can anyone highlight the advantages of CAT? There must be a reason it was used from the factory. Given its lack of durability, I’d like to upgrade to something more robust. 

[EricJ]

I don't know why you couldn't use SCAT.   I suspect the main advantage of CAT for the factory was that it cost less.

[LANCECASPER]

1 hour ago, Shadrach said:

The CAT tube that to our defrost has deteriorated. I be don’t think it’s much over 10 years old but already deteriorating. Is there any downside to using SCAT instead? Can anyone highlight the advantages of CAT? There must be a reason it was used from the factory. Given its lack of durability, I’d like to upgrade to something more robust. 

I had Mike Kneese over at the Mooney Factory Service Center do some work on my airplane last year and my defroster CAT tube had come apart. I ordered a SCAT hose with finished ends from Guy Ginbey and brought it over to Mike to install. He said that should last for the life of the airplane and that he will recommend it to other owners.

[PT20J]

CAT is neoprene impregnated material. SCAT is silicone impregnated. SCAT will withstand higher temperatures which is why it is used forward of the firewall. In addition it doesn't harden with age as neoprene does. It's a better (although more expensive) choice. The biggest problem is the ends. If you buy bulk material and cut it to length, the metal wire will eventually find a way to eat through the material. There are several ways to finish the end of the cut wire to try to prevent this, but none are perfect. Much better to have Guy (800-556-3160) make ducts with finished ends that will last essentially forever.