PVC Heat Shrink Tubing for RC & 18650 Battery Packs — 7mm to 250mm Wide, 1m–10m

Measure the circumference of your battery pack and divide by 2 to get the flat width you need. For example, a cylindrical pack with a 50mm outer diameter has a circumference of roughly 157mm, so you'd typically need a flat width of about 80mm. Always size up slightly — choose the next available width larger than your calculated number — so the tubing slides on easily before you apply heat.

This PVC heat shrink tubing generally has a 2:1 shrink ratio, meaning it shrinks to approximately half its original flat width when heat is applied. This is suitable for most RC battery and 18650 cell wrapping applications where a snug, conforming fit is needed.

PVC heat shrink tubing typically activates at around 90–120°C (194–248°F). A heat gun on a low-to-medium setting works well. A hair dryer on its highest setting can also work for smaller widths. Avoid open flames — they can scorch or melt the tubing unevenly and may damage the battery cells underneath.

This PVC tubing provides basic moisture resistance and is generally suitable for indoor use and light outdoor exposure. For applications involving prolonged outdoor use, rain, or submersion, an adhesive-lined polyolefin heat shrink tubing is typically recommended for a more robust environmental seal.

A standard 18650 cell has an outer diameter of approximately 18.5mm, giving a circumference of about 58mm. Dividing by 2 gives a flat width of roughly 29mm. The 29.5mm flat width variant is generally the closest fit for a single 18650 cell. For a slightly looser slide-on fit, the 31mm variant also works well. For multi-cell packs, measure the full pack circumference and divide by 2.

Use scissors or a utility knife to cut the tubing to your desired length before applying heat. Cut 5–10mm longer than the battery pack to allow for slight lengthwise shrinkage and to ensure full coverage at both ends. The tubing can be cut cleanly without fraying.

Wall thickness after shrinking is generally in the range of 0.1–0.2mm for standard PVC heat shrink tubing. This provides a snug, protective wrap without adding significant bulk or weight to the battery pack — important for weight-sensitive RC applications.

Yes. This tubing is commonly used for wire bundling, cable labeling, handle grip wrapping on tools, and protecting connectors or solder joints in DIY electronics projects. The wide range of flat widths — from 7mm to 250mm — makes it versatile for many workshop and light electrical applications beyond battery packs.