SHRINK-KON
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about SHRINK-KON from 3G Electric.
What shrink ratios are available in SHRINK-KON heat shrink tubing?
SHRINK-KON standard heat shrink tubing is available with a 2:1 shrink ratio, meaning the inner diameter after shrinking is half the before-shrink inner diameter. For example, a 0.38 in before-shrink inner diameter reduces to 0.19 in after heating. Adhesive-lined and split-resistant tubing, such as the HS4-30-4, is available with a 3:1 shrink ratio, reducing a 1.1 in before-shrink inner diameter to 0.35 in after shrinking. The shrink ratio determines the range of cable or wire sizes a single tubing size can accommodate. When selecting tubing, confirm both the before-shrink and after-shrink inner diameters against the substrate dimensions.
What is the difference between SHRINK-KON standard tubing and adhesive-lined tubing?
SHRINK-KON standard heat shrink tubing provides electrical insulation and protection against moisture, abrasion, and mechanical damage. Adhesive-lined tubing, such as the HS4-30-4, includes an inner adhesive layer that melts and flows during shrinking to form an environmental seal at the ends and around irregular shapes. This makes adhesive-lined tubing suitable for connections exposed to water, dust, or chemicals. Standard tubing is typically used for general wire insulation, bundling, and light-duty protection. Both types are available in black. Selection depends on the required sealing performance and the operating environment.
What sizes are included in the SHRINK-KON 74-piece heat shrink tubing assortment kit?
The SHRINK-KON 74-piece assortment kit (SKU HSKIT, MPN HSKIT) includes black heat shrink tubing with a 2:1 shrink ratio in six sizes: 3/16 in, 1/4 in, 3/8 in, 1/2 in, 3/4 in, and 1 in inner diameter before shrinking. Each piece is 6 in long. The kit accommodates wire sizes from 0.18 in to 1.00 in, depending on the tubing size selected. The pieces are supplied in a plastic storage case. This kit is intended for maintenance and repair tasks where multiple tubing sizes are needed without ordering individual packs.
How do I select the correct SHRINK-KON tubing size for a wire or cable?
Select SHRINK-KON tubing by matching the expanded (before-shrink) inner diameter to the overall diameter of the wire, cable, or splice. The tubing must slide over the substrate before heating. After shrinking, the recovered inner diameter must be small enough to grip the substrate tightly. For example, if the substrate diameter is 0.15 in, a tubing with a 0.19 in before-shrink inner diameter and 0.09 in after-shrink inner diameter may be suitable. For splices with irregular profiles, consider adhesive-lined tubing with a higher shrink ratio. Always verify the after-shrink inner diameter against the minimum substrate diameter to ensure a secure fit.
What pack quantities are available for SHRINK-KON heat shrink tubing?
SHRINK-KON heat shrink tubing is supplied in packs of 5, 10, or 20 pieces, depending on the SKU and tubing size. For example, the 1 in before-shrink inner diameter tubing (MPN CPO100006) is supplied in a 5-pack, while the 0.5 in before-shrink inner diameter tubing (MPN CPO50006) is supplied in a 10-pack. Smaller diameters, such as 0.19 in and 0.25 in before-shrink inner diameter, are available in 20-packs. The 74-piece assortment kit provides multiple sizes in one case. Pack quantity affects the number of individual pieces per order and should be considered when planning larger installations.
What are the operating temperature and material specifications for SHRINK-KON tubing?
SHRINK-KON standard heat shrink tubing is made from polyolefin, as indicated in the product descriptions. Polyolefin tubing typically offers a continuous operating temperature range and shrinkage temperature that should be confirmed on the specific product datasheet. The product listings do not specify temperature ratings, so buyers should request the manufacturer datasheet for the exact SKU to verify the operating temperature range, dielectric strength, and flammability ratings. Adhesive-lined and split-resistant versions may have different material properties. 3G Electric can provide datasheets for SHRINK-KON SKUs upon request to support specification and compliance checks.
