Many people easily confuse silicone heat shrink tubing with silicone tubing, but the core difference between them is clear.Silicone heat shrink tubing will shrink and tighten when heated, while silicone tubing maintains a fixed size and does not change even after heating.
Differences
Silicone Heat Shrink Tubing
Expansion technology is used to reserve shrinkage space; it tightens when heated, with the inner diameter reducing at high temperatures to provide tight wrapping.It is mainly used for sealing, fixing and covering, suitable for wire connector insulation, sensor sealing, pipe opening moisture and dust proofing, medical devices and small component covering. It is easy to install and provides reliable sealing.
Silicone Tubing
Fixed inner diameter, no deformation when heated.Mainly used for fluid conduction, wire threading and long term flexible applications.Suitable for baby bottle straws, water dispenser tubes, medical infusion and drainage, mechanical ventilation, fluid transfer and wire passing. Soft and folding resistant, safe for long term gas and liquid delivery.
Similarities
Both are made of silicone rubber material, featuring high temperature resistance, soft texture and aging resistance. They are available in three grades according to application scenarios.
Industrial Grade
Excellent high temperature resistance and aging resistance, suitable for equipment, wire harness and mechanical protection.
Food Grade
Safe, non-toxic and odorless, suitable for products in direct contact with food.
Medical Grade
Sterile, mildew proof and good biocompatibility, suitable for various medical devices.