What Is Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing?
Polyolefin heat shrink tubing is a popular cross-linked protective tubing with good mechanical and physical properties. The tubing features a low shrink temperature of 90 degrees Celsius allowing the use of a simple heat gun, small butane torch, or low-temperature radiant oven. The tubing has an excellent shelf life and does not deteriorate at normal temperatures. Cross-linked polyolefin heat shrinkable tubing is very flexible, letting you manipulate wires and harnesses after covering. The material has a maximum working temperature of 135°C, and it retains its flexibility down to -55°C. Polyolefin is chemically inert and resistant to attack from acids, alkalis, fuels, and solvents.
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HST221-1 1/2$0.00 / 500 FT
- Approx LBS/MFT: 0.00
- CSA Type: 198
- Dielectric Strength: 800 V/mil
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HST221-1 1/2 CLEAR$0.00 / 500 FT
- Approx LBS/MFT: 86.00
- CSA Type: 198
- Dielectric Strength: 500 V/mil
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HST221-1 1/2-100 BLACK$0.00 / 100 FT
- CSA Type: OFT
- Dielectric Strength: 400 V/mil
- Expanded I.D. (in): 1.5
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HST221-1 1/2-100 CLR$0.00 / 100 FT
- CSA Type: OFT
- Dielectric Strength: 400 V/mil
- Expanded I.D. (in): 1.5
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HST221-1 1/2-200 BLACK$0.00 / 100 FT
- CSA Type: OFT
- Dielectric Strength: 400 V/mil
- Expanded I.D. (in): 1.5
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HST221-1 CLEAR$0.00 / 500 FT
- Approx LBS/MFT: 75.00
- CSA Type: 198
- Dielectric Strength: 500 V/mil
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HST221-1-100 BLACK$0.00 / 1000 FT
- CSA Type: OFT
- Dielectric Strength: 400 V/mil
- Max. Temp: 135C
Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing Applications
Polyolefin heat shrink is a flexible tubing for insulating electrical wires, splices, connections, and electrical terminations. The material shrinks to form a tight, waterproof seal that’s resistant to chemicals and solvents. You can use polyolefin heat shrinkable tubing in hot industrial and automotive environments, as well as outdoors in freezing conditions. Other applications include strain relief, mechanical support, and protection against abrasion and physical damage to vulnerable components, circuit boards, and bundling wiring harnesses. Standard colors are black or white, while clear transparent versions allow you to read wire, cable, and equipment identification marks.
Polyolefin Shrink Ratios
The standard shrink ratio of polyolefin tubing is 2:1. When heated, the tubing shrinks to one-half of its original (expanded) diameter. Alternative polyolefin shrink ratios include 3:1 and 4:1. When choosing heat shrink tubing, measure the diameter of the largest component over which the tubing must pass to work out the unshrunk (expanded) diameter needed. Then measure the diameter of the smallest part you're covering, to obtain the required final (recovered) diameter. Use these measurements to determine the shrink ratio of the tubing.
Other Types of Polyolefin Shrink Tubing
In addition to standard flexible polyolefin heat shrink, Allied Wire & Cable (AWC) have other types, including:
- Semi-rigid polyolefin tubing: A thicker wall shrink tubing suitable for heavy-duty electrical insulation and mechanical protection up to 600 volts.
- Military spec flame retardant polyolefin: This tubing meets UL-VW1 vertical flame test, Canadian Standards Association OFT, and military MIL-R-46846, Type V requirements.
- Military specification diesel resistant polyolefin: Resistant to long-term exposure to diesel fuel.
- Adhesive lined polyolefin: Heat shrink tubing with inner adhesive lining for additional protection against fluids, chemical, and mechanical abuse.
Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing Specifications
| Material: | Cross-linked Polyolefin |
| Shrink Temperature: | Standard tubing 90°C, clear and large-diameter tubing 121°C |
| Maximum Rated Temperature: | 135°C |
| Minimum Rated Temperature: | -55°C |
| Shrink Ratio: | 2:1, 3:1, 4:1 |
| Expanded Sizes: | 3/64 to 4 inches |
| Maximum Long Shrinkage: | 5% to 10% |
| Tensile Strength: | 150 pounds per square inch |
| Dielectric Strength: | 500 to 800 volts per mil |
| Colors: | Black, white, and clear |
| Flame Retardant |
Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing Approvals
- CSA C22.2 NO. 198.1:21
- UL 224
Contact a sales representative for further information or custom polyolefin shrink tubing requirements.