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Heat Shrink Tubing FAQs
By: CableOrganizer®
CAN I USE A HAIR DRYER INSTEAD OF A HEAT GUN?
You can try a hair dryer since it does provide heat, but it is typically not suitable for shrinking heat shrink is beyond basic polyolefin varieties. Hair dryers can fall short in terms of achieving an even shrink because they have difficulty in maintaining a maximum temperature high enough to shrink the tubing. The airflow may also not be concentrated enough for the application. We recommend a heat gun for the best application.
IS HEAT SHRINK TUBING WATERPROOF?
It depends on the type of tubing, but most can minimally handle light splashes with water. However, standard, single wall heat shrink does not offer a true waterproof experience. Adhesive-lined, dual-walled, and those with marine-grade quality would provide a higher degree of water resistance and environmental sealing.
CAN HEAT SHRINK TUBING BE REMOVED?
Heat shrink tubing is intended to be permanent but if you need to remove it for any reason, it can carefully be removed lengthwise and cut with a razor or scissors.
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
The material, as well as the environment it is in will determine how long heat shrink tubing will last. It can deteriorate from UV exposure, if it exceeds its thermal limits, or if it is overheated during installation.
WHAT HEAT SHRINK SHOULD I BUY FOR COMMON PROJECTS?
When your project features uniform-sized wires, you would likely do well with a 2:1 shrink ratio. A heat shrink tubing kit offers heat shrink in different size options. CableOrganizer® even offers a curated Heat Shrink Starter Kit that includes a choice of pre-cut heat shrink tubing in its own case, a heat gun, and heat gun accessories, which is perfect for anyone who is new to heat shrinking.
