PVC Heat Shrink Tubing Insulation Wrap Sleeve — 110mm to 625mm Wide

Measure the circumference of your object and divide by 2 to get the required flat width. For example, a cylinder with a 3-inch (≈76mm) diameter has a circumference of about 238mm, so you'd typically choose a flat width of 120mm–125mm. PVC heat shrink generally shrinks to roughly 50% of its flat width when heated. When in doubt, size up by one step — a slightly larger tube will still shrink snugly, while a tube that's too small won't fit over your object at all.

This tubing generally has a 2:1 shrink ratio, meaning it shrinks to approximately 50% of its original flat width when heat is applied. For instance, a 200mm flat-width tube will typically shrink down to cover an object with a circumference of around 200mm (≈64mm diameter). Always do a test piece before committing to a full run.

PVC heat shrink tubing is generally moisture-resistant and handles light outdoor exposure well. However, for prolonged UV exposure, rain, or submersion, a dual-wall adhesive-lined heat shrink is typically recommended to achieve a fully waterproof seal. This single-wall PVC tubing is best suited for indoor and protected outdoor use.

PVC heat shrink tubing typically activates at around 90°C–120°C (194°F–248°F). A heat gun set to low or medium is the recommended tool — it delivers consistent, focused heat. A hair dryer generally does not reach sufficient temperatures to shrink PVC tubing reliably. Avoid open flames, as they can scorch or melt the material unevenly and create weak spots.

Yes, PVC heat shrink is widely used for wrapping 18650, 21700, and other lithium-ion and NiMH battery pack configurations. It provides electrical insulation and a clean, finished appearance. Confirm the flat width covers your pack's full circumference before ordering. For packs with sharp edges or corners, the thickened wall variants offer additional protection against puncture.

PVC heat shrink tubing typically experiences minimal longitudinal (lengthwise) shrinkage — generally less than 5–10%. The primary shrinkage is radial (diameter reduction). When cutting your pieces, add a small buffer of 10–15mm on each end to account for any lengthwise change and to ensure full coverage of your connection or component.

Yes. PVC heat shrink tubing cuts cleanly with sharp scissors or a utility knife before shrinking. For large-diameter sizes (200mm flat width and above), lay the tubing flat on a cutting mat and use a straight-edge guide for a clean, even cut. Avoid using dull blades, as they can cause the PVC to tear or fray at the cut edge.