Heat shrink tubing with adhesive
Heat shrink tubing with adhesive is used for applications where it is very important that the tubing fits seamlessly around the cable it is shrunk onto. There are various types of heat shrink tubing with adhesive – read more below.
Types of heat shrink tubing with adhesive
Twelve of the heat shrink tubing types we offer contain an adhesive layer. In the product names, these are indicated as ‘with adhesive’. There are thin-wall, medium-wall, and thick-wall types of adhesive heat shrink tubing available, ensuring there is always a type that best fits your intended application. The way the adhesive is applied differs by type. We explain these different forms below.
Type of adhesive layer
By means of co-extrusion
The adhesive layer in the heat shrink tubing can be produced using co-extrusion. In terms of material, this is referred to as 'crosslinked co-extruded adhesive lined polyolefin'. This means that two ‘moldable materials’ – in this case, the plastic and the adhesive – are bonded together during the production process.
Crosslinked polyolefin with adhesive
Our other material type is ‘crosslinked adhesive lined polyolefin’. Only the HBK adhesive heat shrink tubing falls under this category.
Using heat shrink tubing with adhesive
Using heat shrink tubing with adhesive is essentially the same as using standard heat shrink tubing. First, determine which type you need, then select the appropriate size. Always choose tubing with a post-shrink diameter slightly smaller than the item you are applying it to. This ensures a snug fit.
When you heat the tubing to shrink it, the adhesive layer inside will melt. This creates a seamless seal that prevents dust and moisture from reaching the cable.
Personal advice
Our advisors are happy to help you choose the right type of adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing. Contact them directly or request a sample – that way, you can be sure you have the right type for your application.