Best Heating Methods and Practices for Heat Shrink Tubing

1.  1-800-920-8823 tubing@shrinkshop.com Best Heating Methods and Practices for Heat Shrink Tubing

2. The Power of Heat Shrink Tubing • What Is Heat Shrink Tubing? • A versatile type of plastic tubing that shrinks in diameter when exposed to heat. • Applications: Commonly used for: • Insulation (protecting wires from electrical shock) • Abrasion resistance (preventing damage from wear and tear) • Bundling wires (organizing and protecting multiple wires) • Used in various fields: Electronics, automotive, marine, construction, and more. • Reference: https://www.shrinkshop.com/blogs/blog/heating-methods-and-practices-for-heat-shrink-tubing

3. Choosing the Right Heat Source • Electric Heat Gun: This is the preferred heating tool due to: • Adjustable Temperature Control: Allows for precise heat application based on the tubing type and desired results. • Directed Heat Flow: Provides focused heat on the tubing for controlled shrinkage. • Safety Features: Many models have features like overheat protection.

4. Alternative Heat Source • Micro Butane Torch: A suitable option for: • Small Areas: Can be helpful for targeting specific areas on the tubing or in confined spaces. • Limited Electricity: Useful when an electrical outlet is unavailable. • Safety Considerations: • Always follow manufacturer instructions and safety precautions. • Ensure proper ventilation when using a butane torch.

5. Heat Sources to Avoid • Hair Dryer: Not recommended because: • Insufficient Heat: Lacks the high temperatures needed for proper shrinkage of heat shrink tubing. • Uneven Heat Distribution: Can lead to inconsistent shrinkage and potential damage to the tubing. • Lighter: Offers uncontrolled heat, leading to burns and uneven shrinkage. • Uncontrolled Heat: High risk of burns and uneven shrinkage. • Open Flame: Potential fire hazard if not handled carefully.

6. Best Practices for Applying Heat Shrink Tubing • Selecting the Right Tubing Size: Choose a tubing size with an appropriate shrink ratio for a secure fit. • Cutting the Tubing: Use sharp tools for clean cuts and a professional finish. Cut 1.3 cm longer than the covered section. • Positioning the Tubing: Carefully slide the tubing over the target area, ensuring it's centered and covers the entire section. • Heating Technique: Move the heat source back-and-forth while rotating the covered item for even shrinkage. • Cooling Down: Allow the tubing to cool completely before handling the wires.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues • Tubing Length: Factor in a 10% longitudinal shrinkage when cutting the tubing. The tubing shrinks in length as well as diameter. • Splitting or Burning: Reduce heat if the tubing splits or burns during application. Uneven shrinkage might require reapplying the tubing with proper heat control. • Material Selection: Opt for high-quality polyolefin heat shrink tubing for better durability and performance compared to PVC.

8. Why Choose Polyolefin Over PVC? • Wider Temperature Tolerance: Polyolefin tubing can withstand higher temperatures (125°C to 135°C) compared to PVC. • Superior Flexibility: Polyolefin bends and conforms more easily, making it ideal for various applications. • Enhanced Durability: Polyolefin is more resistant to cracking and wear and tear compared to PVC. • Chemical and UV Resistance: Polyolefin offers better resistance to chemicals and UV light exposure. • Reference: https://www.shrinkshop.com/blogs/blog/heating-methods-and-practices-for-heat-shrink-tubing

9. (905) 669-0570 tubing@shrinkshop.com www.shrinkshop.com