Heat shrink tubing is an indispensable item on the factory floor of any industry. Ease of use and high degrees of versatility makes it an unequivocal choice in jobs of repair and maintenance besides fulfilling a number of other functions.

There are several factors that go under consideration while installing heat shrink products. Choosing the correct diameter, bearing in mind the overlay between the cable insulation and the tube, knowing the heat shrink ratio, ensuring even heating about the tube and if you are using an adhesive lined item then remembering to begin from the central point and moving towards the ends are some points that should not be forgotten during the installation of such tubing.

As such the tubing is made from several materials but the most popular choice remains the cross linked polyolefin material. This is due to a series of advantages offered by this substance. Cross linked substances do not flow or melt and they do not lose their rudimentary shape in spite of softening or becoming rubbery. However, the greatest advantage offered is their enhanced chemical, physical and thermal resistance.

The shrink temperature of the tubing becomes a critical factor while deciding its suitability for a specific application. Lower the shrink temperature of the tubing faster will be its shrinking. Superior performance can be expected from tubing with greater shrink temperature and this aspect has to be kept in mind while making your purchase. The shrink speed can be hastened by using a reasonably hotter temperature. But care has to be taken to ensure that there is no occurrence of overheating as longer times of exposure or too high a temperature can lead to damage at a faster rate. However, detection of damage can sometimes be difficult. So if a torch is to be the heating medium, then ensure that you move the flame constantly keeping it at the right distance so that heat is applied gradually. Heat guns are a better option but they too cannot guarantee the non-occurrence of damage. Some signs to look for are charring, cracking or blistering of the tubing to ascertain the occurrence of damage.

All heat shrink tubing including related products like heat shrink end caps, heat shrink moulded shapes have a distinct minimum shelf life which is determined by the basic material used in its making. More important factors are the recovered and expanded dimensions. If the product fulfills all needs then extension of shelf life by about 50% of the original figure is possible and this can be done many times over.

These products fulfill a number of functions in electrical environments. Insulate, repair, strain- relief, seal, easy identification of circuits, protection of substrates, bundle and categorize are some of the vital tasks performed by them. While choosing the product, normally a tubing with larger diameter that can enclose the application and fit snugly around it should be chosen. There are several reputed manufacturers known for the quality of their products in the market. Pick the right type of heat shrink and you are ensured the longevity of your application.