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    What is Polyethylene Terephthalate Shrink Tube and How is it Used

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    AccuPath
    ·July 8, 2025
    ·13 min read
    What is Polyethylene Terephthalate Shrink Tube and How is it Used
    Image Source: pexels

    Polyethylene terephthalate shrink tube is a good way to protect wires and parts. It helps with insulation and makes wires stronger. PET heat shrink tubing can shrink up to 1.6 times smaller. The inside size can be from 0.3 mm to 8 mm. The wall can be between 0.0064 mm and 0.05 mm thick. The tubing works in temperatures from -40°C to 170°C. This means it can handle heat and last a long time. PET heat shrink tubing covers wires tightly. It keeps wires safe in tough places. More people use PET heat shrink tubing in electrical and medical devices. This is because more people want protection, insulation, and things that last.

    Expanded Inner Diameter (mm)

    Wall Thickness (mm) Range

    Operating Temperature (°C)

    0.3 - 7.29

    0.00635 - 0.05

    -40 to 170

    • PET heat shrink tubing gives strong protection and insulation for wires. This is important as industries want better ways to handle heat and make things last longer.

    Key Takeaways

    • PET heat shrink tubing keeps wires and parts safe. It shrinks tightly when you heat it. This gives strong insulation and lasts a long time. The tubing stands up to heat, chemicals, water, and UV rays. This makes it good for hard places like hospitals, factories, and outside. PET tubing is clear and bends easily. You can check wires through it. It fits around small or odd shapes without making things bulky. It is safe for medical use and meets strict rules. It helps protect things like catheters and surgical tools when cleaning or using them. PET shrink tubing saves money because it lasts a long time. It stops damage and fits many shapes. This makes it a smart pick for many industries.

    Polyethylene Terephthalate Shrink Tube

    Polyethylene Terephthalate Shrink Tube
    Image Source: pexels

    Definition

    Polyethylene terephthalate shrink tube is a clear and bendy tube made from PET. When you heat it, the tube shrinks and wraps tightly around wires or parts. This makes a strong cover that keeps things safe from harm. PET heat shrink tubing is special because it is strong, see-through, and can be used in many ways. Many companies use this tubing because it helps protect wires, makes them stronger, and keeps out dirt and water. Ultra-thin wall PET shrink tubing is very light and does not make things bulky, but it still covers well. These features make it a good pick for jobs that need tough and exact covers.

    Main Features

    PET heat shrink tubing has many features that make it better than other heat shrink tubes. These features help it work well in hard places like hospitals, labs, and factories.

    • PET heat shrink tubing can go through many cleaning cycles. This means it is good for use in hospitals and labs.

    • The tubing is very smooth. This makes it easy to put on and helps protect small parts.

    • PET heat shrink tubing does not get damaged by acids or strong cleaners. It works well even in rough places.

    • The tubing is very clear. You can see the wires or parts inside without taking it off.

    • PET heat shrink tubing does not catch fire easily. It puts out flames by itself, which makes it safer.

    • The tubing can handle very high heat, up to 400°F (204°C), and still protect what is inside.

    • PET heat shrink tubing does not let water or air in. This helps keep things clean and safe.

    • The tubing does not wear out fast. It can stand up to sunlight, water, and hot or cold weather.

    • PET heat shrink tubing can fit many shapes and sizes. This makes it useful in lots of jobs, like making electronics or airplanes.

    • Ultra-thin wall PET shrink tubing is light and bends easily. It is good when you need to save space or weight.

    Note: Ultra-thin wall PET shrink tubing is used a lot in making medical tools. Its thin size covers parts well but does not get in the way.

    Feature

    Description

    Material

    Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

    Thickness

    Usually 40-50 microns

    Shrinkage Rate

    Shrinks a lot, often more than 75%

    Heat Resistance

    Handles high heat without breaking down

    Clarity

    Very clear so you can see inside

    Durability

    Very strong and hard to poke holes in

    Eco-friendliness

    Can be recycled and is good for the planet

    FDA Approval

    Safe to use with food

    Printability

    Good for printing labels or logos

    Ultra-thin wall PET shrink tubing is also good for printing labels or logos. This helps with names and brands on packages for stores or hospitals. PET heat shrink tubing is good for the earth because you can recycle it. The tubing shrinks a lot, so it fits tightly even on bumpy shapes. PET heat shrink tubing is great for keeping electronics safe because it stops electricity from leaking. Because it is strong, clear, and can be used in many ways, polyethylene terephthalate shrink tube is a top choice for today’s industries.

    PET Properties

    Strength and Flexibility

    PET heat shrink tubing is strong and bends easily. It is made from long chains that make it tough and clear. These chains are linked together, so the tubing can handle stress and heat. This helps the tubing shrink evenly and wrap wires tightly. It gives good protection.

    Property Tested

    Supporting Evidence

    Tensile Strength

    PET tubing keeps over 88% of its strength after many chemical cleanings.

    Thermal Stability

    It keeps its shape and does not break in high heat like autoclave sterilization.

    Chemical Resistance

    It stands up to acids, bases, solvents, and cleaners, keeping its strength and flexibility.

    Flexibility

    Cross-linked PET tubing bends around tricky shapes and still protects wires.

    Microbial Lethality

    It changes very little after gamma and e-beam sterilization, showing it stays stable.

    Regulatory Compliance

    It meets ISO 10993 and USP Class VI rules, so it is safe for medical use.

    PET heat shrink tubing stays bendy after being heated or cleaned with chemicals. It can bend around tight corners, which helps protect wires in small spaces. Medical tools like catheters use PET tubing because it stays strong and flexible after cleaning. The thin walls let it move through small spaces but still protect well.

    Environmental Resistance

    PET heat shrink tubing stands up well to tough places. It keeps out water, dust, and chemicals. This makes it good for hard jobs. The tubing’s chemical resistance keeps wires safe from acids, oils, and cleaners. PET tubing also blocks UV rays and water, so it works outside too.

    • PET heat shrink tubing keeps wires and parts safe from chemicals in cars and factories.

    • It does not rust or wear out in harsh chemical places.

    • The tubing blocks UV rays and water, so it is good for outdoor use and stops weather damage.

    • It stays strong and flexible in very hot or cold temperatures, from -196°C to 200°C.

    • Medical PET tubing meets ISO rules, so it is safe and lasts long in hospitals.

    • Its high dielectric strength (over 4,000 V/mil) keeps electricity in and blocks water and dust.

    • It is light and bends easily, so it is easy to use and does not add much weight in cars or planes.

    Property

    Specification / Result

    Dielectric Strength

    Over 4,000 V/mil

    Long-term Temperature

    -196°C to 135°C

    Short-term Temperature

    Up to 200°C

    Melting Point

    235°C

    Tensile Strength

    ≥ 107 N/m² (ASTM D2671)

    Shrink Ratio

    2:1

    Biocompatibility Standards

    ISO 10993-5 and ISO 10993-10

    Chemical Resistance

    Resistant to oils, acids, solvents, cleaning agents

    UV and Water Resistance

    Blocks UV rays and water ingress

    PET heat shrink tubing shrinks at a low temperature, so it seals tight without hurting sensitive parts. Its chemical resistance means it protects for a long time, even after many cleanings. Its high dielectric strength keeps wires safe from water and dust. PET tubing is tough and stands up to heat, chemicals, and bad weather, so many industries trust it for protection.

    PET Heat Shrink Tubing Process

    Manufacturing

    Manufacturers create pet heat shrink tubing using a precise process. They start by melting pet pellets at high heat. The molten pet flows through an extruder, forming a thin tube. This tube cools quickly to keep its shape. Workers then stretch the tubing while it is still warm. This stretching step gives pet heat shrink tubing its shrinking ability. The tubing becomes strong and clear. Ultra-thin wall pet shrink tubing uses the same method but with tighter controls. This process makes the walls even thinner without losing strength.

    After stretching, the tubing cools again. The final product gets cut into different lengths. Quality checks ensure each piece meets strict standards. The tubing must resist heat, chemicals, and pressure. Ultra-thin wall pet shrink tubing passes extra tests for medical and electronic uses. Factories pack the finished pet heat shrink tubing in clean rooms. This keeps dust and dirt away. The tubing stays ready for use in hospitals, labs, and factories.

    Shrinking Mechanism

    Pet heat shrink tubing works by shrinking when exposed to heat. The stretching during manufacturing locks the pet molecules in place. When users apply heat, the tubing remembers its original shape. The pet molecules move back, causing the tubing to shrink tightly around wires or parts. This creates a strong, protective seal.

    Users can shrink pet heat shrink tubing with a heat gun, oven, or steam. The tubing responds quickly to heat, making installation fast and easy. Ultra-thin wall pet shrink tubing shrinks at lower heat, which protects sensitive parts. The tubing fits closely, sealing out water, dust, and chemicals. Pet heat shrink tubing keeps wires safe and secure in many environments.

    Tip: Always use the right amount of heat for pet heat shrink tubing. Too much heat can damage wires or parts. Too little heat may not shrink the tubing enough.

    Step

    Description

    Apply heat

    Use a heat gun, oven, or steam

    Tubing shrinks

    Pet molecules return to original position

    Tight seal forms

    Tubing wraps tightly around wires or components

    Pet heat shrink tubing offers a reliable way to protect and insulate. The process ensures each piece performs well in demanding jobs.

    Uses in Medical Device Manufacturing

    Uses in Medical Device Manufacturing
    Image Source: pexels

    Catheter Insulation

    Catheters are important tools in hospitals and clinics. They need to be safe inside the body. PET heat shrink tubing covers catheters tightly. This keeps them safe from damage. PET gives good electrical insulation. It stops short circuits in places with lots of electricity. The tubing also protects against scratches and bumps. This helps catheters last longer and work well.

    PET tubing is safe to touch human tissue. Doctors use it for devices that go inside the body. The tubing can shrink to fit tightly around catheter parts. It comes in standard sizes, so it is easy to use. PET does not catch fire easily, which makes it safer. After cleaning, PET tubing keeps its strength and safety.

    • PET heat shrink tubing makes catheters slide more easily.

    • It keeps out body fluids and lets catheters bend.

    • The tubing stays strong and safe after many cleanings.

    Note: Medical-grade heat shrink tubing must meet strict safety rules for medical devices.

    Surgical Instruments

    Surgical tools must be safe and strong every time. PET shrink tubing helps protect these tools. It is very strong and blocks electricity. PET tubing works in very hot or cold places. This makes it good for cleaning and using in surgeries.

    Hospitals use PET tubing on many tools, like catheters and endoscopes. The tubing does not get damaged by strong cleaners. It can shrink to fit tightly on small or tricky tools. This helps doctors use the tools better.

    • PET tubing is safe for the body and lasts a long time.

    • It stays strong and clear after many cleanings.

    • The tubing keeps tools safe from harm and helps them last.

    Feature

    Benefit for Surgical Instruments

    High tensile strength

    Stops tools from breaking

    Dielectric strength

    Blocks unwanted electricity

    Chemical resistance

    Handles strong cleaning chemicals

    Biocompatibility

    Safe for use in hospitals

    PET heat shrink tubing helps keep medical devices safe, strong, and reliable.

    Applications in Other Industries

    Electrical Insulation

    Many companies use PET heat shrink tubing for electrical insulation. Workers put this tubing over wires and cables to keep them safe. It protects wires from heat, water, and chemicals. The tubing fits tightly and blocks dust and water. This helps stop short circuits and keeps systems working. Factories like PET heat shrink tubing because it does not break in high heat. Its high dielectric strength, over 4,000 V/mil, makes it great for insulation. In factories, PET heat shrink tubing protects cables from shaking and rubbing. This keeps wires safe and means fewer repairs.

    Tip: PET heat shrink tubing is good in places with lots of heat or chemicals. It keeps wires and cables safe, even when things get tough.

    Electronics

    People who make electronics use PET heat shrink tubing to protect small wires. The tubing fits tightly, even on odd shapes. This tight fit gives strong insulation and keeps out dust and water. Devices like smartphones and laptops use PET heat shrink tubing to keep wires safe from heat and chemicals. The clear tubing lets workers see wires without taking it off. PET heat shrink tubing also helps with labels, so you can tell cables apart. Its chemical resistance and heat tolerance help electronics last longer.

    • PET heat shrink tubing protects wires on circuit boards.

    • It keeps cables safe in battery packs and connectors.

    • The tubing blocks heat and water, stopping damage to parts.

    Automotive

    Car makers use PET heat shrink tubing for electrical insulation in cars and trucks. Workers wrap the tubing around wires in wiring harnesses. This keeps wires safe from heat, oil, and road dirt. PET heat shrink tubing stops cables from getting scratched or wet. This helps prevent problems with the car’s wires. The tubing can handle heat up to 200°C for a short time, so it works well in engines. Car makers pick PET heat shrink tubing because it lasts long and needs fewer repairs. As more electric cars are made, strong insulation is needed even more. PET heat shrink tubing protects wires and cables in tough places.

    Application Area

    Benefit of PET Heat Shrink Tubing

    Wiring Harnesses

    Shields wires from heat and abrasion

    Engine Compartments

    Protects cables from oil and high heat

    Connectors

    Provides tight electrical insulation

    PET heat shrink tubing helps keep wires and cables safe in many jobs. Its strong protection, high heat tolerance, and tight insulation make it a trusted choice everywhere.

    Benefits

    Durability

    PET shrink tubes are very tough in hard places. They can handle high heat and strong hits. PET does not lose its shape or strength after many uses. It protects wires and parts very well. This makes it a good pick for electrical insulation. PET can take high heat and will not melt or bend easily. It also blocks UV light, so it works outside and in bright sun. PET does not break down when it touches oils, acids, or cleaners. Many companies use PET because it keeps things safe and lasts a long time. PET shrink tubes still protect after many cleanings, which is key in hospitals and factories. PET is strong and bends without breaking, so it does not crack or tear. This toughness helps stop damage and keeps things working well.

    Cost-Effectiveness

    PET shrink tubes save money in many ways. New ways to make PET use less material and cost less. PET is clear, strong, and stretches well. It protects things during shipping and storage, so there is less damage. Companies like PET because it gives good insulation for less money than other choices. PET does not get ruined by chemicals, so you do not need to replace it often. Its strength means you can use less of it and still be safe. This helps companies make more money, especially in medical tools. PET is used a lot in the heat shrink tubing market because it works well and is not expensive. PET shrink tubes fit many shapes and sizes, so there is less waste. Its heat resistance, protection, and long life make PET a smart and cheap choice for many jobs.

    PET gives strong protection to wires and devices. It is very tough and lasts a long time. PET heat shrink tubing gets smaller when heated. This makes a tight cover around wires. PET can handle heat, chemicals, and water. Many companies use PET in hard places. It keeps wires safe from damage. The tubing is clear, so you can see the parts inside. PET is known for being strong and not breaking in heat. It also makes it easy to add labels. If you want to learn more, you can read guides about PET in medical and electrical uses.

    FAQ

    What makes PET heat shrink tubing different from other materials?

    PET heat shrink tubing is strong, clear, and bends easily. It does not get damaged by chemicals or heat like some plastics. PET covers wires and parts tightly, even in tough places.

    Can PET shrink tubing be used outdoors?

    Yes, PET shrink tubing works great outside. It blocks UV rays, water, and big temperature changes. This makes it good for cables and car parts used outdoors.

    How does PET tubing help with sealing and fixation?

    When heated, PET tubing shrinks and hugs wires or devices. This makes a tight seal and holds things in place. PET keeps out water, dust, and chemicals from the covered parts.

    Is PET shrink tubing safe for medical devices?

    Doctors and makers use PET shrink tubing because it is safe and lasts long. PET follows strict safety rules for medical tools. It protects catheters and surgery tools, even after many cleanings.

    What temperature range can PET heat shrink tubing handle?

    PET heat shrink tubing works from -40°C to 170°C. It stays strong and keeps its shape in hot or cold. PET does not change during cleaning or high heat.

    See Also

    Essential Facts About PET Heat Shrink Tubing Electronics

    How Heat Shrink Tubing Protects Electrical Wire Insulation

    A Simple Guide To FEP Autoclavable Heat Shrink Tubing

    Industrial Applications Of FEP Heat Shrink Tubing Explained

    What You Should Know About FEP Non-Toxic Heat Tubing

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