PTFE tubing is commonly used to protect wires and cables. Materials that could become corroded, dirty, or severely damaged if left uncovered will benefit from the addition of a PTFE covering.

How To Install And Shrink Tubing

PTFE (Teflon) tubing is mechanically expanded during the manufacturing process. The expansion will allow you to slide the tubing over single wires and cables or groups of them. Extreme heat is used to shrink tubing. This process isn't conducted until after tubing has been installed over the materials that need to be protected.

During the heating process, the synthetic materials that comprise the PTFE covering will transform from a solid to a gel-like substance. The cover will be clear during this phase. It is important to allow the tubing to fully recover, once shrinking has occurred. The recovery process consists of slow, even cooling. While the tubing cools down, it will harden and dry. Attempting to rapidly cool down tubing could alter the recovery phase and compromise the integrity of the tubing.

Once the recovery is complete, wires and cables will be ready for use. Wires and cables are often used in outdoor applications that require the use of hydraulics. Even though these materials may be exposed to high temperatures while machinery is utilized, the tubing that surrounds them will not be at risk of further shrinking. The initial shrinking process requires extreme heat that is at a level that mechanical equipment is not exposed to.

How To Cut And Secure PTFE Tubing

Tube cutters can be used to precisely cut pieces of PTFE tubing. Tubing should be trimmed, prior to installing it. Tube cutters are typically used in commercial settings that require that wires and cables are covered. If tubing is going to be used for a household purpose, a straight edge razor blade, a knife, or scissors can be used to cut through the Teflon, if a pair of tube cutters aren't available for use.

Materials that will be covered should be measured prior to cutting tubing and covering materials with it. A lubricant can be used to aid with sliding tubing over a thick grouping of wires or cables. There are some PTFE tubing products on the market that contain adhesive. The adhesive is present on the inside of tubing pieces. The adhesive will help hold multiple wires or cables together and will not damage any of the materials.

For more information, contact a company like Tef-Cap Industries.

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