Heat Shrink Fabric

Image	Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity	Rfq
	HFT5000-25/12-0-220MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 0.90" 220MM	0
	HFT5000-25/12-0-530MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 0.90" 530MM	0
	HFT5000-25/12-0-280MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 0.90" 280MM	0
	HFT5000-30/15-0-330MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 1.18" 330MM	0
	HFT5000-30/15-0-130MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 1.18" 130MM	0
	HFT5000-60/30-0-160MM TE Connectivity Raychem Cable Protection	HEATSHRINK FAB 2:1 2.36" 160MM	0

Heat Shrink Fabric

1. Overview

Heat shrink fabric refers to thermoplastic tubing that contracts radially upon heating, creating a tight protective covering for cables and wires. This material is engineered to provide insulation, mechanical protection, and environmental sealing in modern electronic, industrial, and aerospace applications. Its importance lies in enhancing system reliability through strain relief, moisture resistance, and dielectric insulation.

2. Major Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Features	Application Examples
Standard Polyolefin	General-purpose insulation, 2:1 shrink ratio, UV resistance	Consumer electronics wiring
Double-Wall Adhesive	Internal adhesive layer for sealing, 3:1 shrink ratio	Military connectors
PVC Heat Shrink	Flexible, flame-retardant, cost-effective	Automotive harnesses
PTFE/FEP Tubing	High-temperature resistance (200 C+), chemical inertness	Aerospace sensor cables
Expandable Braided Sleeving	Recoverable diameter adjustment, abrasion resistance	Industrial robotics

3. Structure and Composition

Typical construction includes: - Base Material: Cross-linked polyolefin, PVC, or fluoropolymers - Adhesive Layer: Thermoplastic elastomer (for sealing variants) - Additives: UV stabilizers, flame retardants, colorants - Wall Structure: Single-wall (basic protection) or double-wall (with adhesive lining)

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Typical Range	Importance
Shrink Temperature	85-200 C	Determines application compatibility
Shrink Ratio	2:1 to 6:1	Affects size flexibility
Dielectric Strength	15-50 kV/mm	Ensures electrical safety
Operating Temperature	-55 C to +150 C	Defines environmental limits
Adhesion Strength	0.5-4.0 N/mm	Sealing performance indicator

5. Application Fields

Automotive: Engine wiring harnesses, battery interconnects
Aerospace: Avionics cabling, flight control sensors
Telecommunications: Fiber optic cable splices, 5G infrastructure
Medical: Sterilizable cable connectors, diagnostic equipment
Industrial: Robotics, control panel wiring

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Representative Product	Unique Features
Alpha Wire	AlphaShrink AS200	Low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) rating
3M	3M 200C-30	High-abrasion resistance coating
Sumitomo Electric	Heaton TCS	Automotive qualification (LV214)
TE Connectivity	Raychem SCL	Recoverable to original size
Alphaform	FormoTex	3D-formable textile structure

7. Selection Guidelines

Calculate required shrink ratio based on substrate diameter variation
Match material temperature rating with operating environment
Evaluate chemical/fluid exposure requirements
Consider UL/CSA certification needs for regulatory compliance
Select adhesive type for moisture sealing applications

8. Industry Trends

Current development focuses on: - Nanocomposite materials: Enhanced thermal conductivity for EV battery packs - Smart heat shrink: Integrated temperature-sensitive color indicators - Sustainability: Bio-based polymers and halogen-free formulations - Miniaturization: Ultra-thin wall tubing for microelectronics - Multi-functional coatings: EMI shielding and self-healing properties