Silicone heat-shrink tubing for flexible insulation under thermal stress
Silicone heat-shrink tubing is used when sensitive cables, sensor wires, or electronic components need to be flexibly insulated while also being protected from thermal or mechanical stress. Unlike stiffer high-performance plastics, silicone remains elastic and adaptable even under fluctuating temperatures.
As a wholesaler, we have been supporting industrial companies for over 60 years in the technical selection of suitable tubing, insulation, and connection solutions. In doing so, our product experts evaluate not only diameter and shrink ratio, but also bend radii, material behavior, electrical insulation, and requirements for moving cable sections.
As a wholesaler, we have been supporting industrial companies for over 60 years in the technical selection of suitable tubing, insulation, and connection solutions. In doing so, our product experts evaluate not only diameter and shrink ratio, but also bend radii, material behavior, electrical insulation, and requirements for moving cable sections.
Over 60 years of experience
using silicone shrink-wrap technology
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Material Behavior of VMQ Silicone During the Shrinkage Process
The material properties of VMQ silicone differ significantly from those of fluoropolymers or polyolefins. While PTFE, FEP, or PFA are often chosen for chemically demanding or very low-friction applications, silicone focuses on elastic insulation, flexible protection, and low processing temperatures. Thanks to its soft material structure, silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used even with tight bend radii or in applications involving movement. At the same time, electrical insulation is maintained provided that the diameter, wall thickness, temperature range, and installation conditions are correctly specified.
The VMQ silicone used is halogen-free, thin-walled, and designed for temperature ranges from −50 °C to +200 °C. Due to its low shrinkage temperature, the material is suitable for assemblies that incorporate temperature-sensitive components.
Important processing note: Silicone heat-shrink tubing begins to shrink as early as approximately 80 °C. This allows sensitive components to be processed in a way that is gentler on the material than with high-temperature heat-shrink tubing made of PTFE or FEP, which require significantly higher activation temperatures.
The VMQ silicone used is halogen-free, thin-walled, and designed for temperature ranges from −50 °C to +200 °C. Due to its low shrinkage temperature, the material is suitable for assemblies that incorporate temperature-sensitive components.
Important processing note: Silicone heat-shrink tubing begins to shrink as early as approximately 80 °C. This allows sensitive components to be processed in a way that is gentler on the material than with high-temperature heat-shrink tubing made of PTFE or FEP, which require significantly higher activation temperatures.
Key Technical Specifications for Design and Procurement
VMQ Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing Without Internal Adhesive
The silicone heat-shrink tubing in our product line is made of VMQ silicone and is available in a thin-wall version without an internal adhesive. This prevents adhesive migration onto sensitive surfaces or electronic components. However, suitability for a specific application must still be verified based on temperature, medium, geometry, and electrical stress.
| Parameters | Technical Value |
|---|---|
| Material | PEEK (polyetheretherketone) |
| Tensile Strength (ASTM D638) | 1,309 KSI |
| Fracture stress or tensile stress | 14,503 PSI |
| Glass transition temperature | 161 °C |
| Continuous operating temperature | up to +250 °C |
| Heat resistance | up to +400 °C (ASTM NEMA MW 1000) |
| Dielectric Strength | 3570 V/mil |
| Crystallinity | 40 % |
Dimensions for Cable Protection, Sensors, and Assemblies
We supply silicone heat-shrink tubing in various diameters for sensor cables, cable protection, component insulation, and electrical applications with limited installation space. The following selection shows typical available sizes from the ROTIMA product line.
DATA_TABLE_TEMPLATE:
When to Use Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing Instead of Fluoropolymers
Silicone heat-shrink tubing is particularly well-suited for applications where flexibility is more important than maximum chemical resistance. In practice, this often applies to sensor cables, flexible cable systems, moving electronic components, test equipment, control cables, or sensitive assemblies.
Based on our experience in technical tubing technology, the low shrinkage temperature, elastic recovery, and dielectric strength of ＞20 kV/mm are particularly crucial selection criteria. The distinction from PTFE, FEP, or PFA should therefore be based not on chemical inertness, but on flexibility, component protection, and flexible insulation.
Based on our experience in technical tubing technology, the low shrinkage temperature, elastic recovery, and dielectric strength of ＞20 kV/mm are particularly crucial selection criteria. The distinction from PTFE, FEP, or PFA should therefore be based not on chemical inertness, but on flexibility, component protection, and flexible insulation.
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Silicone heat-shrink tubing
Silicone heat-shrink tubing
Electrical Insulation, Recovery Characteristics, and Flexibility
Silicone heat-shrink tubing combines electrical insulation with high flexibility. Thanks to the material’s elasticity, the protective function is maintained even during movement or temperature fluctuations, provided that the mechanical stress is appropriate for the selected size.
For electronic applications, the dielectric strength of ＞20 kV/mm is particularly relevant. This value supports the design of insulating protective layers on wires, contacts, and electrical components. For safety-critical systems, however, the application-specific standards, creepage distances, clearances, and test requirements must always be considered separately.
For electronic applications, the dielectric strength of ＞20 kV/mm is particularly relevant. This value supports the design of insulating protective layers on wires, contacts, and electrical components. For safety-critical systems, however, the application-specific standards, creepage distances, clearances, and test requirements must always be considered separately.
Gentle processing thanks to a low shrinkage temperature
The low shrink temperature reduces thermal stress on sensitive components during assembly. This makes silicone heat-shrink tubing suitable for applications where electronic components, sensors, or medical assemblies should not be exposed to unnecessarily high temperatures.
For consistent results, we recommend temperature-controlled hot-air systems. Our technical support team can assist you in selecting the appropriate diameters and shrink parameters for your specific component geometry. When doing so, the initial diameter, final diameter, wall thickness, change in length, and heat input must all be evaluated together.
For consistent results, we recommend temperature-controlled hot-air systems. Our technical support team can assist you in selecting the appropriate diameters and shrink parameters for your specific component geometry. When doing so, the initial diameter, final diameter, wall thickness, change in length, and heat input must all be evaluated together.
Assembly for mass production and cable assemblies
For mass production, we also supply silicone heat-shrink tubing in precisely cut lengths. This helps reduce assembly times and ensures consistent, repeatable processing steps in device or cable manufacturing.
| Performance | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Delivery form | Metered goods, roll or cut to size |
| Procurement | Technical wholesale and Distribution |
| Special lengths | Project-related possible |
| Cutting | According to customer requirement |
| Counseling | Technical product selection |
| Use | Cable assemblies, sensor cables, assembly insulation |
Applications involving dynamic or sensitive component handling
Electronic Assemblies and Control Systems
Silicone heat-shrink tubing protects sensitive electronic assemblies from mechanical stress, moisture, and localized insulation risks. At the same time, it preserves cable flexibility, which is important in tight enclosures, connectors, and printed circuit board environments.
Medical-grade tubing and flexible components
In medical technology applications, silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used when small wires or sensitive components need flexible protection. However, before use in applications subject to regulatory requirements, project-specific material approvals, testing, and proof of compliance must be addressed.
Industrial Cable Assembly and Equipment Manufacturing
In equipment and machinery manufacturing, silicone heat-shrink tubing is used as a flexible insulation and protective component for cables, wires, and electrical assemblies. Typical reasons for its use include temperature fluctuations, vibration, limited installation space, or the need for a soft protective sheath.
Sensor cables with a small bend radius
Due to their elastic properties, silicone heat-shrink tubing is suitable for sensor cables and moving cable sections with tight bend radii or varying motion profiles. The selection must be based on the cable diameter, final diameter, and mechanical stress.
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Silicone heat-shrink tubing
Silicone heat-shrink tubing
EPDM cold-shrink tubing for electrical insulation
The selection of suitable silicone heat-shrink tubing affects electrical insulation, mechanical strength, temperature stability, and the long-term reliability of entire assemblies. Different variants differ not only in diameter or wall thickness, but also in installation conditions, movement patterns, contact with media, and electrical safety requirements. Improperly designed heat-shrink tubing systems can lead to wire breaks, insulation damage, voltage arcing, material fatigue, or thermal overload. The technical selection should therefore always be based on actual operating conditions.
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for Mechanical and Plant Engineering
In mechanical and plant engineering, cables are subjected to stress caused by vibration, movement, temperature fluctuations, and confined installation spaces. VMQ silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used as a flexible insulation and protection component for cables, actuators, sensors, and control lines.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ Silicone |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Tensile strength | ＞6.9 MPa |
| Change in length | ±11% max. |
| Application | Wire harness assembly, moving machine components, control cables |
| Note | Check the suitability of drag chains on a project-by-project basis |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for Rail Vehicle Manufacturing
In rail vehicle manufacturing, cable systems are affected by vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and fire safety requirements. Halogen-free silicone heat-shrink tubing can provide flexible electrical insulation. Rail-specific fire safety or certification standards must be verified on a project-by-project basis.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | VMQ silicone, halogen-free |
| Shrinkage Rate | 1,5:1 |
| Operating Temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Contraction Temperature | At least 80 °C |
| Genomic intensity | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Tensile Strength | ＞6.9 MPa |
| Application | Sensor cable, cable connector, control cable |
| Note | Railway specifications will be reviewed separately |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for Shipbuilding
In marine applications, moisture, vibration, and temperature fluctuations place stress on electrical cables and assemblies. Silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used as a flexible protective sheath and for electrical insulation. Marine certifications, IP ratings, and corrosion protection measures must be verified separately.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ silicone, halogen-free |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Dielectric strength | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Execution | thin-walled, without internal adhesive |
| Application | Navigation sensors, engine room wiring, control cables |
| Note | Check maritime approvals separately |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for the Automotive Industry
In automotive engineering, flexible wiring harnesses and sensor cables are subjected to stress caused by temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and tight installation spaces. Silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used here as an elastic protective and insulating component when wires need to remain flexible and a low shrink temperature is advantageous.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ silicone, halogen-free, thin-walled, without internal adhesive |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Electrical Properties | Dielectric strength ＞20 kV/mm |
| Mechanical property | Tensile strength ＞6.9 MPa |
| Change in length | ±11% max. |
| Application | Sensor wires, wiring harnesses, areas with moving cables |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for the Electronics Industry
In the electronics industry, thin wall thicknesses, low processing temperatures, and electrical insulation are key selection criteria. VMQ silicone heat-shrink tubing can protect sensitive wires, contacts, and assemblies without applying an internal adhesive to contact surfaces.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ Silicone |
| Execution | thin-walled |
| Glue | without internal adhesive |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Dielectric strength | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Application | Subassembly insulation, SMD transitions, control lines |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for the Energy Industry
In power distribution systems, control cabinets, and battery systems, temperature fluctuations and electrical stresses can affect insulation. Silicone heat-shrink tubing supports flexible insulation applications on cables and at junctions, but does not replace proper insulation coordination in accordance with standards.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ silicone, halogen-free |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Dielectric strength | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Tensile strength | ＞6.9 MPa |
| Application | Control lines, cable transitions, flexible insulation sections |
| Note | Test creep distances and air distances separately |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for the Aerospace Industry
In aviation- or aerospace-related applications, weight, installation space, temperature cycling, and material approvals are critical factors. VMQ silicone heat-shrink tubing can be used for flexible insulation and protection of cables. Industry-specific aviation certifications must be provided separately.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ silicone, halogen-free |
| Execution | thin-walled |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Dielectric strength | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Application | Sensor cables, test benches, flexible cable sections |
| Note | Check aviation approvals separately |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for Medical Technology
In medical devices, silicone heat-shrink tubing can provide flexible protection for wires and small assemblies. Key factors include low processing temperatures, electrical insulation, and the material’s soft texture. For applications in direct contact with patients or those subject to regulatory requirements, biocompatibility, sterilization resistance, and regulatory approvals must be tested separately.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ Silicone |
| Execution | thin-walled, without internal adhesive |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Dielectric strength | ＞20 kV/mm |
| Application | Laboratory equipment, sensor cables, equipment cabling |
| Note | Review medical clearances separately |
Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing for the Pharmaceutical Industry
In pharmaceutical facilities, cleaning, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and documentation requirements are key considerations. Silicone heat-shrink tubing without an internal adhesive can be used for flexible sheathing of sensor cables and electrical auxiliary areas. GMP, cleanroom, or media contact requirements must be validated separately.
| Parameters | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material | VMQ Silicone |
| Glue | without internal adhesive |
| Shrinkage ratio | 1,5:1 |
| Operating temperature | −50 °C to +200 °C |
| Shrinkage temperature | at least 80 °C |
| Property | halogen-free |
| Application | Process Sensors, Control Cables, Equipment Wiring |
| Note | Separate GMP and media contact testing |
Industry-Specific FAQs About Our Silicone Heat-Shrink Tubing
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Automotive Industry
Electronics Industry
Energy Industry
Food Industry
Aerospace
Machinery and Plant Engineering
Medical Technology
Pharmaceutical Industry
Rail Vehicle Manufacturing
Shipbuilding
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Oliver Bürli
Head of Hose Technology, Sales and Product Management
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