General
Shrink ratio	2:1
Inner diameter before shrinking	25,4 mm
Inner diameter after shrinking	12,7 mm
Shrink temperature	> +110 °C
Colour	Black
Length per piece	0,18 m
Packaging contents	3 pieces

The product from Thomas + Betts, type PLG1000-0-18R, is a flexible, thin-walled heat shrink tube from the PLG series, specifically designed for use in electrical and IT installations. It is used for mechanical and electrical insulation of cables, wires, or connection points, where the shrinking process creates a tight, form-stable covering. The heat shrink tube is black and supplied in packs containing three individual pieces, each 0.18 m in length. It is particularly suitable for applications requiring a compact, clean, and durable covering of cables, for example in industrial electrical installations, machine building, or data communication technology.

Applications

The heat shrink tube PLG1000-0-18R is used wherever reliable insulation and a mechanical protective layer for electrical wires or cable connections are required. It is especially suitable for covering cable ends, plug connections, screw terminals, or for marking wires via color coding. Due to its flexible structure and a shrink ratio of 2:1, it conforms closely to the wire being protected and ensures a tight, crack-free covering. The application is suitable for indoor and outdoor environments, provided the ambient conditions do not exceed the shrink temperature of over +110 °C.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The heat shrink tube is constructed with a thin wall, allowing minimal volume increase after shrinking and thus saving space in tight installation situations. The shrink ratio of 2:1 means that the inner diameter reduces to half its original size after heating — from 25.4 mm to 12.7 mm. This enables a precise fit on cables or wires with a diameter of approximately 12.7 mm. The black color serves for visual identification and is standard in many technical applications. The pack contains three individual pieces, each 0.18 m long, which is sufficient for small repair or installation tasks.

Technology Explained Simply

The heat shrink tube is made of a thermoplastic material that changes shape when heated above +110 °C, contracting to the predetermined size. This process is triggered by a heat source such as a hot air blower or a heating oven. The shrinking occurs evenly, resulting in a tight, form-stable sleeve around the cable. The thin-walled structure ensures the tube fits closely to the cable surface without occupying unnecessary space. The black color is not only aesthetic but also functional, as it is commonly used as the standard for unmarked or general-purpose wires in technical environments.

The shrink temperature of over +110 °C is critical for correct application: the heat source must reach this temperature to initiate shrinking without damaging the cable or insulation. Shrinking occurs within seconds to minutes after reaching the shrink temperature, depending on the heat source and ambient conditions.

Compatibility and Accessories

The heat shrink tube PLG1000-0-18R is compatible with cables or wires whose diameter after shrinking is approximately 12.7 mm. It can be used with various heat sources such as hot air blowers or specialized shrinking tools that provide the required temperature of over +110 °C. No additional tools or materials are required for installation, except for the heat source.

Installation and Mounting

Installation is performed by sliding the heat shrink tube over the area to be protected, followed by heating with a heat source. The temperature must exceed +110 °C to trigger shrinking. The heat source is moved evenly along the length of the tube until it has fully shrunk. After cooling, a tight, form-stable sleeve remains. The length of 0.18 m per piece allows precise adaptation to small sections, such as cable ends or plug connections.

Advantages in Operation

The heat shrink tube provides reliable, durable insulation and mechanical protection. The thin-walled structure minimizes space requirements, while shrinking ensures a tight fit. The black color is widely used in technical applications and supports standardization. The product is easy to use and requires no additional materials, reducing installation time. Shrinking occurs evenly, resulting in a crack-free, form-stable covering that remains intact even under mechanical stress.