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Heat Shrink Sizes: A Guide to Choosing the Right Tubing

Learn about heat shrink sizes and choose the right tubing.

Additional Information

A multipurpose tool for bundling, insulating, and safeguarding wires or cables is heat shrink tubing. Choosing the appropriate heat shrink tubing size is essential for the best results. Heat shrink sizes are categorized by diameter and shrink ratio, providing a range of options to meet various needs.

What Are Heat Shrink Sizes?

Heat shrink sizes refer to the dimensions of the tubing before and after it is heated. Two main factors define the size:

  1. Diameter: The diameter is measured in its unshrunk (expanded) state. For example, a 6 mm silicone heat shrink tubing has a 6 mm diameter before shrinking. For more understanding,

  • Pre-shrink diameter: 12 mm

  • Post-shrink diameter: 6 mm (for a 2:1 ratio)

  1. Shrink Ratio: This represents how much the tubing will shrink in diameter when heat is applied. Common ratios include 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1.

  • A 2:1 shrink ratio means the tubing will shrink to half its original diameter.

  • A 3:1 ratio will shrink to one-third of the original diameter.

How to Choose the Right Heat Shrink Size

Choosing the correct heat shrink tubing size ensures a snug and effective fit. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Measure the Object’s Diameter

    • Measure the diameter of the wire, cable, or component you want to cover.

    • For irregular shapes, measure the widest point.

  2. Match the Shrink Ratio

    • Select tubing with an expanded diameter larger than the object but small enough to shrink tightly around it.

    • For example, if the object’s diameter is 5 mm, choose tubing with a 2:1 ratio and an expanded diameter of at least 10 mm.

  3. Consider Wall Thickness

    • Thicker tubing walls provide better protection against abrasion and environmental factors.

How to Calculate Heat Shrink Size

Use this simple formula to determine the size of heat shrink tubing needed:

  • Required Tubing Diameter = Maximum Diameter of Object × Shrink Ratio

For example:

  • If the maximum diameter of your cable is 8 mm and the shrink ratio is 2:1, choose tubing with an expanded diameter of 16 mm or slightly larger.

Heat Shrink Tubing Size Chart

Here are some common sizes and ratios of heat shrink tubing available on Cable Ties and More:

Diameter (Unshrunk)

Shrink Ratio

Material

Applications

6 mm

2:1

Silicone

Ideal for small wires and delicate components

10 mm

3:1

Polyolefin

General-purpose cable bundling and insulation

20 mm

4:1

Shrinkflex 2:1 fabric heat shrink

Abrasion resistance for high-stress areas

50 mm

2:1

Heavy-duty polyolefin

Large cables and industrial use

What is Shrinkflex 2:1 Fabric Heat Shrink Tubing?

Shrinkflex 2:1 fabric heat shrink tubing is a unique option that combines the flexibility of fabric with the protective properties of heat shrink tubing. It’s ideal for applications requiring enhanced abrasion resistance and flexibility, such as automotive or aerospace projects.

The diameter and shrink ratio are used to determine the size of heat shrink tubing, so choosing the appropriate size for your needs is essential. Effective insulation, protection, and organization can be ensured by knowing the measurements and figuring out the necessary size.