Depending on the severity of your project, consider eye protection,
gloves, and a breathing device to avoid inhaling fumes. Also, we
recommend not wearing loose or baggy clothes. Watch for hanging items
such as chains, bracelets and hair.
Make sure the work area is free of clutter. Even what appears to be
harmless debris can become a hazard. Pick up, dust or sweep before
starting. If working indoors, ensure the space is well ventilated, even
if wearing a mask. Of course, all this may not be possible if you’re
dealing with systems inside walls or floors. But it is still critical
that you remain mindful of the risks.
Lastly, never point the heat gun at yourself or anyone else.
This may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many EMTs have rushed to an accident where even a seasoned pro hadn’t imagined what
could happen.
The tubing’s shrink ratio has to result in a tight fit. As these
products come in a range of diameters, select one large enough to fit
comfortably over the area that still promises to snugly cover the area
after shrinkage.
Cut the desired length of tubing, keeping in mind it shrinks lengthwise.
Measure carefully, allowing for at least a ¼” overlap if you’re
including connectors or insulation.
Slide the tubing in place. If you’re splicing cables or wires, center the tubing between the splice, ensuring equal overlap on both
sides. Some professionals use a little lubricant spray to help guide
tubing easily.
Before applying heat, know the manufacturer’s recommended heating
temperature. Too much or too little heat defeats the purpose, causing
uneven shrinkage, insulation failure, or even physical damage. DO NOT
use open flames.
Use the heat gun to shrink one end of the tubing and gradually work down
to the other. Apply heat steadily, rotating the object, making sure
shrinking is even and there are no air bubbles. You don’t want brittle
or charred tubing. The best way to sidestep this is to avoid lingering
on any one area too long.
