Heat Shrink Tubing: What is it? How do I select the right Heat Shrink Tubing?

What is Heat Shrink Tubing?

Heat shrink tubing is a type of plastic tubing that shrinks in diameter when exposed to heat. It comes in a variety of sizes, materials and shrink ratios. The tubing is typically supplied in its expanded state, making it easier to place over wires, cables, or other connectors. Once the heat shrink tubing is placed, applying heat with a heat gun causes the tubing to shrink down, conforming tightly to the object underneath. This creates a secure and protective layer.

• Electrical Insulation: Provides excellent insulation for exposed wires, preventing electrical shorts and shocks.
• Strain Relief: By providing a layer of support at connection points, heat shrink tubing helps to absorb stress and prevent wires from pulling loose due to movement or vibration.
• Environmental Protection: Heat shrink tubing acts as a barrier against dust, moisture, and other environmental elements that can damage wires and connections.
• Bundling and Organization: Heat shrink tubing can be used to bundle and organize multiple wires together, keeping them neat and preventing tangles.
• Color Coding: Heat shrink tubing comes in various colors, which can be used for color-coding wires to simplify identification during installation or troubleshooting.
• Abrasion Protection: The tubing adds a layer of protection for wires against abrasion, which can occur from rubbing against other components or sharp edges.
• Post-Soldering Insulation: After soldering wires together, heat shrink tubing can be used to insulate the connection point, providing a clean and secure finish.

• Size: Selecting the appropriate size is crucial. The tubing should be large enough to comfortably slide over the object in its unheated state. A good rule of thumb is to choose a diameter 20-30% larger than the object you're covering. Consider the shrink ratio as well. A 2:1 shrink ratio tubing will shrink to half its original size when heated.
• Shrink Ratio: As mentioned earlier, the shrink ratio refers to the amount the tubing will shrink in diameter when exposed to heat. Common shrink ratios include 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1. A higher ratio offers greater versatility but may require more precise sizing.
• Material: Heat shrink tubing comes in various materials, each with its own properties. Polyolefin is a popular choice for general-purpose applications due to its affordability and good electrical insulation properties. Other materials like fluoropolymers and silicone offer better heat resistance and are suitable for high-temperature environments.