Heat Shrink Tubing

Heat shrink tube, often abbreviated as HS, is a type of plastic tubing that is designed to shrink when heated. It is made from materials such as polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or fluoropolymers, which have the ability to return to their original shape when exposed to heat, effectively conforming to the object they are applied to.

Definition:
Heat shrink tube is a polymeric material that, when heated, shrinks tightly around an object, providing insulation, protection, and strain relief.

Function:
1. Insulation: It provides electrical insulation to protect wires and cables from short circuits and electrical hazards.
2. Protection: It shields components from environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals, and physical damage.
3. Strain Relief: It helps to prevent the cable from being pulled apart at the point of connection, reducing the risk of disconnection.
4. Identification: Color-coded heat shrink tubes can be used for easy identification of wires and cables.
5. Sealing: It can create a seal around connectors and joints to prevent the ingress of contaminants.

Applications:
1. Electrical and Electronics: Used for wire harnessing, cable jointing, and connector protection in various electronic devices.
2. Automotive: Protects wiring and connections in vehicles against harsh conditions.
3. : Provides environmental sealing for critical components in and spacecraft.
4. Medical Devices: Used for insulation and protection in medical equipment.
5. Telecommunications: Protects cables and connectors in telecommunications infrastructure.

Selection Criteria:
1. Material: Choose based on the environment and temperature range the tube will be exposed to.
2. Wall Thickness: Thicker walls provide more protection but may be harder to install.
3. Shrink Ratio: The ratio of the tube's diameter when expanded to its diameter when fully shrunk.
4. Temperature Range: Consider the operating temperature of the application and the heat resistance of the tube.
5. Color: For identification purposes, choose a color that contrasts with the surrounding components.
6. Adhesion: Some tubes have adhesive linings for added security and bonding.
7. Certifications: Ensure the tube meets industry standards and certifications relevant to the application.

In summary, heat shrink tubes are versatile components used across various industries for their ability to provide insulation, protection, and strain relief. The choice of the right heat shrink tube depends on the specific requirements of the application, including material, thickness, shrink ratio, and temperature resistance.
Please refer to the product rule book for details.