Ever-Expanding Applications of Heat Shrink Tubes

Heat shrink tubes, made of cross-linked polyolefin material, are finding new ways to be used in a range of innovative applications to protect the electrical installations and wirings aesthetically pleasing and safe for the users. Years back, the use of heat shrink tubes was limited to seal the cable joints but now these are being used all across the electrical installations to secure various elements in end-to-end circuit. As the use of heat shrink sleeves is increasing, the diversity in demand is also increasing. To meet the ever-expanding requirements of end users, the leading manufacturers of heat shrink electrical insulation accessories are expanding their product line continuously.

Heat Shrink Sleeves/Tubes – The Best Insulation for Electrical Installations:

Thin heat shrink tubes are proving effective for reducing short circuit incidents. These are being used as an alternative to conventional tapes. The use of heat shrink tubes needs a little bit training and experience but electricians and linemen easily become accustomed to use heat shrink sleeves. Heat shrink technology is being used since decades to insulate electrical products as we see in automobile sector and electrical or electronic consumer items.

The heat-shrink tubing and sleeves market is expected to surpass US$ 1.8 Bn by 2021. 

The unique characteristics of polyolefin power cable accessories make these a must for mid to high voltage installations. Co-extrusion of polyolefin and hot melt adhesive in dual wall tubing provides dielectric strength of 15KV/mm. Heavy wall tubes make the underground cable joints up to 36KV. Excellent resistance to UV rays, weathering, gases, chemical, and solvents make these an excellent choice for underground corrosion protection tubes. These are available in ready to use 1500mm. to 250mm length. The conformation to IEC 60684-3-247 and IP 68 standards makes the world rely on polyolefin cable repair sleeves, pipeline joint sleeves, and cable termination sleeves.

High dielectric strength of polyolefin contributes to social acceptance of heat shrink tubes in different sectors like automotive, telecommunication, electric, gas, etc.. These small cost accessories have become a must-have for the industrial set ups having hazardous elements in environment and high potential of usage impacts.

Scope to Use Heat Shrink Tubes for Electrical Insulation:

Use of heat shrink tubes addresses all the concerns about protection against water, humidity, temperature, abrasion, acids, etc. These are finding increasing applications in electronic gadgets and electrical appliances also. The quality insulation of cabling makes the products long-term performing. In addition to make the electrical installations shock proof, short-circuit proof, weather resistant, impact resistant, these small sleeves are used for corrosion protection also.

Increasing use of heat shrink technology in marine is the example of superb performance of heat shrink products in highly moist environment. Technological advancements have facilitated the heat shrink tubing manufacturers to produce sleeves that that are good for a wider range of temperature (-65°C to +260°C.). The growing need to protecting cables and wires from different forces is driving the users to embrace heat shrink technology.

Concluding Note:

The prominent players, ranking good in heat shrink tubing and sleeves market, are competing to offer customized heat shrink products. The bulk users of heat shrink products can order for customized to application heat shrink cable connecting tubes, couplers, busbar sleeves, and others. The choice of adhesive and non- adhesive heat shrink tubing allows for choosing as per site condition and save more.

Pro-tip: To make your new and existing electrical installations safer and maintenance free, you can explore ever-expanding heat shrink products line of Gala Thermo, Mumbai.