3M
3M SFTW-203-1/4-48-BLACK Heat Shrink Tubing
Thin-wall polyolefin tubing shrinks 3:1 to fit 16–12 AWG wire, resists acid and alkali, and withstands −67 °F to 275 °F
- Thin-wall polyolefin shrinks 3:1 for tight wire seals
- Fits 16 AWG to 12 AWG conductors with .24 in pre-shrink ID
- Withstands -67 °F to 275 °F continuous operating temperatures
- Flame-retardant and acid/alkali-resistant for harsh environments
- 48 in black length cuts to custom sizes without adhesive mess
Thin-wall heat-shrink tubing
3M SFTW-203-1/4-48-BLACK is a thin-wall polyolefin tube designed for electrical insulation and strain relief. It suits electricians and technicians who need flexible, flame-retardant protection for wire sizes 16 AWG to 12 AWG. The 3:1 shrink ratio allows the tube to fit over connectors before shrinking down to a tight seal. Supplied in individual 4 ft pieces, it is ready for immediate use.
Build quality and daily handling
The polyolefin material remains very flexible after shrinking, making it easy to route in tight bundles or around corners. Flame-retardant construction and acid- and alkali-resistant properties help the tubing withstand harsh environments. With a dielectric strength of 600 V and an operating range from -67 Degrees to 275 Degrees F, it maintains insulation integrity across wide temperature swings. The thin 0.03 in recovered wall adds minimal bulk to the harness.
Bundled format and practical impact
Each piece ships as a single 4 ft length, so users can cut exact lengths without managing a spool or off-cuts. The 0.24 in expanded inner diameter slides over typical splices and terminals for 16 AWG to 12 AWG wire, then shrinks to 0.08 in at a minimum temperature of 212 Degrees F. No adhesive liner is present, so the tube relies on mechanical grip rather than bonding. This suits repairs where re-entry or repositioning may be needed later.
Highlights
- Thin-wall polyolefin shrinks 3:1 for tight wire seals
- Fits 16 AWG to 12 AWG conductors with .24 in pre-shrink ID
- Withstands -67 °F to 275 °F continuous operating temperatures
- Flame-retardant and acid/alkali-resistant for harsh environments
- 48 in black length cuts to custom sizes without adhesive mess
Specifications
| Brand | 3M |
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Questions about this item
What shrink ratio does the 3M SFTW-203 tubing use, and what inside diameter does it reach after shrinking?
The tubing has a 3:1 shrink ratio, reducing the inside diameter from 0.24 in to 0.08 in after full recovery.
What minimum shrink temperature is required for the 3M SFTW-203 tubing?
The tubing begins to shrink at a minimum temperature of 212 degrees F.
How do you install the 3M SFTW-203 tubing, and what step is often missed?
Slide the tubing over the wire, then apply heat evenly until it shrinks to 0.08 in; the step often missed is heating uniformly around the full circumference.
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