Source for telescope tubes?

I have a Meade 10" starfinder and the tube is made out of that cardboard stuff they use for cement pouring. I was thinking of replacing the tube but am not sure what type of material would be acceptable. What is a lite material? What material would disipate the heat? And what other factors should be considered? What are the major companies who manufacture these products?
Thanks/

IMHO, a cork or flock lined unpainted aluminum tube is the best choice for a Newt.

Sonotube does work well, but really needs a good set of stiff end rings. They protect the ends of the cardboard and add greatly to the stiffness of the tube. Alas, most commercial scopes have mere cosmetic end rings, and they do little to protect the ends and nothing to add stiffness.

If John has a Meade Starfinder Dob, with the closed back and the steel ring to move the balance down-tube, it would benefit greatly from opening up the back to allow good airflow, and removing the heat storing steel ring.

Clear skies, Alan

you can get 1/4" thick plywood columns from 6" o.d. to about 24" o.d. from most formica distributors. Very strong and light, but also expensive

Try this for aluminum tubes.
www.hipco-ne.com/scope.htm
Paul