How to use heat shrink tubing?

Heat shrink tubing is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of ways. It saves the wires from chemical, abrasion, weather while color coding them. It is also great for bundling the wires. Being a do it yourself activity, everyone can do it. Here is a simple guide, to help you with the heat shrink tubing.

Process of using Heat Shrink Tubing

Correct size of tubing

The first thing that you should do is select the right kind of heat shrink tubing. There are two things that you should remember while selecting the tubing: the diameter after shrinking and the pre-shrinkage diameter. It is important that the after shrinkage diameter is smaller than the diameter of area you are insulating. This ensures that there is proper insulation.

Cutting to the size

Next step is to cut the tubing. While cutting be sure that you allow the minimum of 1/4" overlap over any existing connectors. As the heat shrink tubing also shrinks lengthwise, be sure that you cut right. You can cut the tubing easily with the normal scissors.

Placing Heat Shrink Tubing

While using the tubing for the wire, slide the heat shrink tubing over the center of the spliced wired and overlap the tubing on both sides. Make sure the spliced area is entirely covered.

Temp check!

Every heat shrink tubing has different specifications. Make sure you check the temperature specification beforehand so that the tubing does not burn. You can use heat shrink oven or a commercial heat gun to shrink the tubing. Uncontrolled heat can cause uneven shrinkage. Do not use open fire or flame to shrink the tubing. It can result in burning of tubing and insulation failure.

Heating

To shrink the tubing, apply the heat evenly over the surface. Make sure the heat is applied to the diameter of the tubing. Continue applying the heat until the tubing is uniformly shrunken. It should conform to the shape of the splice or thing that it is covering. As soon as it takes the shape, remove the heat. Before using or applying stress, make sure you let the tubing cool.

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