Peelable Fep Heat Shrink Tubing
FEP Key Properties
Biocompatible – FEP has a proven history of use within medical devices. For more information on FEP’s biocompatibility, contact us today.
Chemically Resistant – FEP heat shrink is impervious to nearly all common solvents whether they are acids, bases, or hydrocarbons.
Excellent Dielectric Strength – FEP heat shrink possesses exceptional dielectric strength and thus doubles as insulation when used with electrical components.
Excellent UV Transmission Ratings – This product’s UV ratings mean that it can stand up to extended UV exposure and not degrade or breakdown. The ability of our FEP heat shrink to withstand this type of UV exposure means that it can be used under sterilizing UV light and outdoors.
Flame Resistant – The non-flammable nature of FEP makes it a good choice for environments where there is high heat or the possibility of flame exposure.
Low Absorption of Solvents – Consistent with FEP’s negligible chemical activity, FEP heat shrink has extremely low absorption of solvents.
Many Preferred Traits over PTFE – FEP heat shrink has a lower gas and vapor permeability than PTFE and is less expensive; FEP is also more flexible than PTFE and possesses greater optical clarity.
More Lubricious than PFA – FEP has a lower coefficient of friction than PFA giving it a highly lubricious surface.
Optical Clarity – The transparency of FEP heat shrink assures that your covered parts remain visible yet protected; this allows you to monitor the integrity of covered parts or wire splices.
Sterilizable – FEP’s temperature tolerance and physical properties allow it to easily tolerate gamma, ETO, e-beam, and autoclave sterilization protocols.
Peelable Heat Shrinking Guidelines for FEP Heat Shrink Tubing
- Always assure good ventilation in the immediate work area before beginning the heat shrink process. (Caution: Fumes can cause nausea and dizziness).
- FEP heat shrink tubing requires approximately 420 °F ± 50 °F (215 °C ± 10 °C) to initiate shrinkage. This is a liberal and safe range. Please note that these temperatures are approximate. Actual shrink temperatures may vary based on the dimensions and wall thickness of the tubing, methods of application, and other factors. Micro-tube is happy to provide samples to test in your application to determine the best material to use.
- The mandrel (part) to be covered by FEP heat shrink must be able to withstand the heat shrink temperature range.
- Parts or mandrels may act as a heat sink which may cool the heat shrink prematurely. Therefore, Micro-tube recommends preheating larger diameter mandrels and other parts.
- FEP heat shrink needs only a small amount of recovery. Some slight longitudinal change is normal and may vary depending on the extent of recovery. Contact Micro-tube if longitudinal change is a concern.
- Heating and cooling should be even on all sides for best results. Uneven heating or cooling tends to split the side of the heat shrink which is still in the “gel” state with the other side in the hard or crystalline state, particularly upon recovery.
- NOTE: Shrinking starts when the FEP is brought up to the “gel” state but completes its recovery during the cooling cycle. In its gel state the tubing becomes crystal clear with a glassy appearance.
- Ovens are the most reliable way to recover heat shrink products due because of their ability to ensure even heating and reduce the risk of overheating the material (which can lead to brittleness and cracking). If a heat gun is to be used, please contact Micro-tube Ltd. for tips on the proper application of heat to achieve the uniform recovery.
Why Choose Micro-tube As Your Polymer Solutions Provider?
Micro-tube specializes in extrusion tubes for various polymers.
Micro-tube’ history and reputation of partnering with manufacturers and research and development groups is long well-recognized. Today, companies – whether well-established or start-up – know that when they come to us, we deliver! Micro-tube can assist with process development, design challenges, materials guidance, prototype development, to quality support. We have our own certified testing and analytical laboratories with an extensive range of materials science capabilities. We take your reputation as seriously as you do! No other company delivers the consistency, dependability, and unparalleled innovation of Micro-tube.
Micro-tube Capabilities
>EXPANDED DIAMETER (ID) BEFORE SHRINKAGE.: 0.0354″ / 0.90mm~15mm
>RECOVERED DIMENSION AFTER SHRINKAGE: 0.0177″ / 0.45mm~10mm
>Wall Thickness: NOMINAL 0.25mm
>Length: Customized
>Accuracy: Max ±0.03mm
>Color: Transparent
>Optional heat shrink ratio： 1.3:1 / 1.6:1 / 2.0:1