How to use Heat Shrink Tubing

Please read ALL steps before using Heat Shrink Tubing for the first time

1. Select proper size of tubing. The tubing's published recovered diameter must be less than the diameter of the area to be insulated to allow for a secure, tight fit and the expanded diameter (as supplied) must be large enough to pass over the existing insulation and/or connectors.
2. Cut tubing to length, allowing for a minimum overlap of 1/4" over the existing insulation or connector. Also allow for approximately 5-7% shrinkage in the axial (cable) direction.
3. Slide the cut tubing over the existing insulation.
4. For splicing, slide the tubing over the center of the splice, with equal overlap on both sides.
5. If you have a long cable to shrink over, start at one end and rotate while applying heat. This will give a uniform shrink with no air bubbles between the shrink tubing and the rod or cable.
6. Apply heat evenly over the length and outer diameter of the tubing, until it is evenly shrunk and conforms to the shape of the splice. Immediately remove the heat source. Allow tubing to cool slowly before applying physical stress.
7. See individual tubing specifications for recommended heating temperature. Any commercial heat gun can be used, or shrinking can be done in an oven. Use of open flame is not recommended, as the uncontrolled heat may cause uneven shrinkage and/or physical damage to the material causing insulation failure.
8. Avoid overheating the shrink tubing or it will become brittle and/or charred.

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