Teflon® Heat Shrink Tubing

Teflon heat shrink tubing is fluoropolymer tubing, typically PTFE or FEP, that is supplied in an expanded state and shrinks tightly over a wire, component, or device when heat is applied. It offers the highest temperature resistance, chemical inertness, and lubricity of any common heat shrink material, which makes it the go-to choice for medical devices, catheter fusing sleeves, printer roller covers, aerospace wiring, and other demanding applications.

PTFE and FEP are both Teflon fluoropolymers with excellent chemical resistance and dielectric properties. PTFE heat shrink tubing handles continuous temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) and requires a higher heat source to shrink, which makes it the choice for the most extreme heat. FEP heat shrink tubing operates up to 400°F (205°C), shrinks at a lower temperature, and is clearer, which is helpful when the underlying component needs to be inspected. PTFE meets SAE-AMS-DTL-23053/12, and FEP meets SAE-AMS-DTL-23053/11 Class 1 and 2.

Teflon heat shrink tubing is available in 1.3:1, 1.6:1, 2:1, and 4:1 shrink ratios, in sizes from #24 to 2", with custom sizes available. Wall options include standard, thin wall, lightweight wall, and industrial wall. The standard color is natural (translucent), and custom colors are available on request.

Yes. Our Teflon heat shrink tubing is made from USP Class VI certified polymers and is commonly used for medical devices, catheter fusing sleeves, and component encapsulation. Its lubricity, chemical inertness, and high temperature resistance make it well suited for catheter manufacturing and other medical assembly processes. See our medical grade fluoropolymer tubing or contact our team to discuss sizes, wall thicknesses, and documentation for your device.

Yes. PTFE heat shrink tubing meets SAE-AMS-DTL-23053/12, formerly M23053/12, and FEP heat shrink tubing meets SAE-AMS-DTL-23053/11 Class 1 and 2, formerly M23053/11. All of our Teflon heat shrink tubing is also RoHS compliant. Contact our team to confirm certifications and documentation for your program.

Teflon heat shrink tubing needs much more heat to shrink than PVC or polyolefin tubing. PTFE requires the highest temperatures and is typically installed with a high-temperature heat gun or an oven, while FEP shrinks at a lower temperature and is easier to install. Apply heat evenly around the tubing, working from one end to the other, so it recovers smoothly without trapping air. Our team can recommend the right approach for your material and part size.

Choose Teflon heat shrink tubing when your application involves continuous temperatures above what PVC or polyolefin can handle, exposure to aggressive chemicals or solvents, or a need for lubricity and a non-stick surface. PVC and polyolefin heat shrink tubing are more economical for general insulation, bundling, and identification, while Teflon delivers longer service life in the most demanding environments.