Heat Shrink

M

Matt Vivlamore

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Jan 11, 2011
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Southern MD, USA
www.meerkatsound.com
What's your favorite brand of Heat Shrink?

I am looking at covering 12ch snake (just shy of 1/2 in diameter) and then 22ga snake lines.

I'm looking to purchase a large amount of it, but the only brands I've been exposed to are the stuff from Lowes & Home Depot.
 
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Re: Heat Shrink

On smaller gauge wire I have used heat shrink and then snake skin over top with good results. I got my shrink and snake skin in various colors from parts express.


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Re: Heat Shrink

If there is an amateur radio hamfest in your area head there. Many suppliers show up with many types of shrinkwrap. Many colors too. If not Google Grainger. I have made many fans using shrink and then the jacket from CAT 5 cable that is laying around. CAT 5 jacket is much more durable than smaller heat shrink for individual lines. Hamfest can save you quit a few bucks. You can horsetrade with those guys. You will find many other items that will get you off the ground.
 
Re: Heat Shrink

I'm a big fan of the 3m shrink. It seems to be a bit more flexible, so it actually protects the fanouts more. It has a bit more elasticity to it.

Otherwise in a pinch, I've used Harbor freight stuff without complaint. There isn't that much of a difference between brands. Cable is important, connectors are important, the solder is important, skill involved making the cables is important... Shrink is just there to help reinforce what the cable jacket should be doing in the first place (as far as fanouts are concerned).

If you're talking longer (over 6") pieces to cover non-jacketed foil shield pairs, then I'd REALLY suggest the 3m brand. It seems to stay softer when shrunken, and stands up to abuse. I don't know if it's better than any other brands because I haven't used them for that purpose, but the 3m seems great.
 
Re: Heat Shrink

I have been using heat shrink from Harbor Freight for years. Both my stuff and for installs. Works great, locally available, and pretty inexpensive. If you were looking to cover a long loom, I would recommend expanded sleeving. I am actually in the processing of building a 150ft cat5/line snake using it.
 
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