Heat shrink tubing, also known as a shrink sleeve, can be used to repair and insulate wires and cables. It’s also an essential tool when it comes to effectively managing wires and ensuring their longevity. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps on how to properly use heat shrink tubing on electrical wires, giving you guidelines for making reliable and professional connections.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting this process, it is very important to have all the necessary tools and materials ready. You will need heat shrink tubing, wire cutters, a heat gun or lighter, and wire strippers. Having everything under control will save you time and enable smooth and efficient operation.

Step 2: Learn About the Different Types of Heat Shrink Tubing

Heat shrink tubing comes in a variety of sizes and materials, each suitable for a specific application. When choosing conduit, consider the diameter of the wire you will be using. It is important to choose tubing that will fit snugly against the wires when heated. Also, consider the environmental conditions to which the wire will be exposed, such as temperature and humidity, as this will help you determine the appropriate material for the heat shrink tubing.

Step 3: Measure the Damaged Section of Wire

Choose the right length of tubing by measuring the length needed to cover the damaged section of the wiring. Ensure the length is marginally longer than the targeted length because heat shrink tubing shrinks up to 10% shorter once heat is applied. 

Step 4: Slide the Heat Shrink Tubing onto the wire to cover the Damaged Section

Now that the wires are ready, slide the heat shrink tubing piece on one end and feed the wire through until the targeted area is reached. Ensure the tubing properly covers the required area and the exposed wires on either end. There should be no friction or hesitation when threading the wire through the tube. 

Step 5: Use a Heat Gun to Shrink the Tubing

Now it's time to activate the heat shrink tubing. Using a heat gun or lighter, carefully heat the tubing. Keep heat sources a safe distance from pipes to prevent them from melting or burning. As the pipe heats up, it will begin to shrink and tightly seal the connection. Swirl the pipe occasionally to ensure even heating. Once the tube is fully shrunk, allow it to cool before moving or handling the wire.

Step 6: Contact JS Tubing for the Heat-Quality Heat Shrink Tubing & Wire Harness Accessories

Looking for reliable heat shrink tubing and wire harness accessories? JS Tubing offers premium-quality products backed by over 10 years of industry expertise.

 As a trusted supplier of heat shrinkable tubing and flexible tubing, we proudly serve clients across the electrical, telecommunications, automotive, military, and aerospace industries.

Our products meet rigorous performance standards and are trusted by commercial and industrial customers worldwide.

✅ Competitive pricing

✅ Fast, responsive service

✅ Custom sizes & materials available

Get in touch with JS Tubing today to discuss your project needs or request a sample!