The definitive guide! How to use and choose adhesive-backed heat shrink tubing

Technical · Heat Shrink Tube

What is Adhesive-Lined Heat Shrink Tubing?


Before Heating Outer Layer Adhesive (Unmelted) Inner Space 🔥 Heating After Heating (Shrinkage & Adhesion) Adhesive melts and adheres to the cable Cable Waterproof ✓ Sealed ✓ Mechanical Strength ✓ Cross-section: Mechanism of Shrinkage and Adhesive Bonding

Adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing is heat shrink tubing with a heat-activated adhesive (hot melt) applied to its inner surface.

When heated, the tube shrinks, and at the same time, the internal adhesive melts and adheres and bonds to the covered object. Compared to regular tubing, it is characterized by significantly enhanced water resistance, sealing properties, and mechanical strength.

The Nature of the Adhesive and its Bonding Strength

The inner adhesive is formulated by each manufacturer, so the composition differs. However, the following common characteristics generally apply:

Melts at high temperatures → Cures upon cooling

The adhesive melts when heated and solidifies upon cooling, firmly bonding to the covered object.

Can adhere to a wide range of materials such as rubber, PVC, and PE

While dependent on the surface condition of the material, it offers a certain level of strength to cable jackets. It does not provide complete adhesion and can be removed.

Tips for enhancing waterproofing performance

1
Observe proper heating temperature (adhesive must melt thoroughly)
2
Remove oil and dirt from cable surface before heating (prevents poor adhesion)
3
Cover the tube slightly shorter to allow space for the adhesive to escape
4
After heating, gently squeeze the tube to spread the adhesive thoroughly
5
Wipe off excess adhesive with a cloth to maintain a clean appearance

Precautions for Use

Caution Details
Heating Temperature Approx. 120℃ and up (depending on tube material)
Adhesive Melt-out Overheating may cause adhesive to leak from the tube
Feel immediately after heating Adhesive is soft, so pressing firmly with bare hands may cause deformation
Handling Excess Adhesive After heating, it can be cleanly removed by gently wiping with a cloth
Storage Precautions Avoid high temperatures and humidity, store below 25℃

Actual Installation Examples

🌍

Waterproof joint treatment for buried cables

🚢

Salt damage prevention for marine applications

🚗

Terminal processing for automotive harnesses

Denka Electron's Adhesive-Lined Heat Shrink Tubing Products

Denka Electron offers a wide range of adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing.

UL certified products

Compatible with a wide range of cable diameters, from 3:1 to 6:1 shrink ratio

Customizable options available, including flame retardant, chemical resistant, and transparent

Supports small lots and short delivery times

Summary · Conclusion

Adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing is
"waterproofing" and "highly reliable insulation" is the optimal choice.

If you are unsure about product selection, please feel free to contact us.

Contact us for adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing

We also accept requests for samples, size selection, and custom specifications.

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