Convoluted Tubing vs. Heat Shrink Tubing: Where to Use Which
Convoluted tubing and heat shrink tubing are both valuable tools for protecting and organizing wires and cables.
When it comes to protecting and organizing wires and cables, two popular solutions often come to mind: convoluted tubing and heat shrink tubing. While both serve the purpose of safeguarding and bundling wires, they have distinct characteristics and are suited for different applications. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between convoluted tubing and heat shrink tubing and help you determine where to use each one for optimal results.
What is Convoluted Tubing?
Convoluted tubing, also known as split loom tubing, is a flexible, corrugated plastic tubing used to bundle and protect wires and cables. It has a slit running along its length, allowing easy insertion and removal of wires without disconnecting them. Convoluted tubing is available in various sizes, colors, and materials, such as polyethylene and nylon, to suit different applications.
What is Heat Shrink Tubing?
Heat shrink tubing is a flexible, thermoplastic tubing that shrinks when exposed to heat. It is used to insulate, protect, and seal wires, cables, and connectors. When heated, the tubing contracts and forms a tight, snug fit around the object it covers, providing a secure and protective barrier. Heat shrink tubing comes in various sizes, colors, and materials, including polyolefin and PVC.
Convoluted Tubing: Where to Use It
Convoluted tubing is ideal for applications that require flexibility, easy access to wires, and general protection. Here are some common uses for convoluted tubing:
Cable Management
You can use convoluted tubing to organize and bundle wires and cables in various settings, such as offices, homes, and vehicles. It keeps wires neat and tidy while allowing for easy modifications or additions.
Mechanical Protection
The corrugated design of this tubing provides mechanical protection against abrasion, crushing, and impact. It suits applications where wires face physical stress or movement, such as in robotics or machinery.
Routing and Concealment
Convoluted tubing allows you to route wires through tight spaces, around corners, and along surfaces easily. You can also use it to conceal wires for a cleaner and more professional appearance.
Automotive Wiring
In vehicles, this tubing protects and organizes wires in the engine compartment, dashboard, and other areas exposed to heat, moisture, and vibration.
Temporary Installations
For temporary wiring installations or situations requiring frequent wire access or modifications, convoluted tubing is an excellent choice due to its split design.
Heat Shrink Tubing: Where to Use It
Heat shrink tubing is best suited for applications that require a tight, secure, and insulating seal around wires, cables, and connectors. Here are some typical uses for heat shrink tubing:
- Insulation and Protection: Heat shrink tubing provides excellent electrical insulation and protection against moisture, dust, and other environmental factors. It is ideal for sealing and protecting wire splices, terminations, and connections.
- Strain Relief: When applied to the end of a cable or wire, heat shrink tubing creates a strain relief that prevents the wire from bending or pulling at the connection point, reducing the risk of damage or disconnection.
- Identification and Color-Coding: Heat shrink tubing is available in various colors, allowing for easy identification and color-coding of wires and cables. This is particularly useful in complex wiring systems or for distinguishing different functions or circuits.
- Waterproofing: Certain types of heat shrink tubing, such as adhesive-lined or dual-wall tubing, provide a waterproof seal when shrunk, making them suitable for outdoor or marine applications.
- Aesthetics: Heat shrink tubing creates a clean, professional, and uniform appearance when applied to wires and connections, enhancing the overall look of the wiring installation.
Also see: Polyolefin Heat Shrink Tubing: Your Best Guide Out There
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Convoluted Tubing and Heat Shrink Tubing
When deciding between convoluted tubing and heat shrink tubing, consider the following factors:
- Accessibility: If you need frequent access to the wires for modifications or maintenance, convoluted tubing is the better choice due to its split design. Heat shrink tubing, once applied, is permanent and requires cutting for wire access.
- Environmental Factors: Consider the environment in which the wires will be used. If exposure to moisture, chemicals, or extreme temperatures is a concern, heat shrink tubing may provide better protection and sealing properties.
- Insulation and Sealing: For applications that require electrical insulation and a tight, secure seal, heat shrink tubing is the preferred option. Convoluted tubing offers general protection but does not provide a complete seal.
- Flexibility and Routing: Convoluted tubing is more flexible and allows for easier routing of wires through tight spaces and around corners. Heat shrink tubing, once shrunk, is less flexible and may be more suitable for straight runs or fixed installations.
- Aesthetics: Both convoluted tubing and heat shrink tubing can enhance the appearance of wiring installations. However, heat shrink tubing provides a more seamless and professional look, especially for exposed or visible connections.
Combining Convoluted Tubing and Heat Shrink Tubing
In some cases, using both convoluted and heat shrink tubing together can provide the best of both worlds. For example, you can use convoluted one to bundle and route wires, while applying heat shrink tubing to the ends or connections for added insulation and strain relief. This combination offers flexibility, protection, and a professional finish to your wiring installation.
Conclusion
Convoluted and heat shrink tubing are both valuable tools for protecting and organizing wires and cables. Convoluted one is ideal for situations that require flexibility, easy wire access, and general protection, such as cable management and routing. On the other hand, heat shrink tubing excels in applications that demand insulation, sealing, and a secure fit, such as wire splices and terminations.
For more insights and tips on cable ties and other related products, be sure to explore cabletiesunlimited.com and follow us on our social media communities on Facebook and Instagram!
Want to speak with one of our professionals? Reach out at 866-891-0137 and we'll be delighted to help!