If you’re applying heat shrink tubing for an upcoming project, it’s important to know how to properly shrink the tubing so that it creates the perfect waterproof seal and protects your cables and wires. There are various ways to apply heat to the tubing. The safest and most efficient way to shrink the tubing is to use either a heat gun or a micro torch.
Which one is the better option? That depends on how familiar you are with using the tools, as well as the project itself. Larger projects may require the use of a heat gun while smaller projects can be done quickly with a micro torch.
Here’s what you need to know about both tool options.
How to Use a Heat Gun on Heat Shrink Tubing
If you have access to electricity, we recommend using a heat gun. Before you use a heat gun for heat shrink tubing, you should know the precise specifications of the tubing itself. Each heat shrink tubing product has safety heating requirements to ensure the proper shrinkage is achieved. A heating temperature too high or too low can result in damage to the tubing or an uneven fitting on the wiring product.
- Step 1: Fit a reduction or reflector nozzle onto the air outlet
- Step 2: Select a heat shrink tube that matches the workpiece diameter
- Step 3: Fit the tube evenly over the center of the joint
- Step 4: Connect the power cord to a power source
- Step 5: Switch on the heat gun using the stationary position (ensure you have both hands free to hold the wire)
- Step 6: Start heating the tube in the middle and work to the sides
- Step 7: Switch off the heat gun and let it cool down
- Step 8: Disconnect the power cord
How to Use a Micro Torch on Heat Shrink Tubing
In circumstances where a heat gun is not available or you do not have access to electricity (e.g., outdoors), you can use of a micro torch on heat shrink tubing. Use of an open flame should be done with control and caution. Although the tubing is designed to be flame retardant, the wires themselves are not. Increased heat output can damage the tubing if safety measures are not followed.
- Step 1: Use a yellow flame for the best visuals
- Step 2: Continue moving the flame around the tubing
- Step 3: Follow the transition of the tubing, determining the speed and avoiding air traps
- Step 4: Finish the opposite ends before applying heat to the shrunken part
Buy a Heat Gun and Butane Micro Torch from ShrinkShop
For any heat shrink tubing project, rely on the top-quality products at ShrinkShop. Our TFX-3000 Two-Stage General Purpose Hot Air Gun is a 1200 W model with temperatures ranging from 400 to 590 degrees Celsius. We also have a TFX-2050 Butane Micro Torch with a maximum temperature of 1,300 degree Celsius, featuring a hands-free design.
We are proud to offer custom cuts and printing for all of your heat shrink tubing projects. Our state-of-the-art equipment allows for flawless printing of your business name or logo on either or both side of the tubing. Contact us to learn more about our line of heat shrink tubing and products today!