Like a belt that is tightened, heat shrink tubing (HST) wraps snugly around wires and terminals to protect them from abrasion and keep them bundled. Harness manufacturers have used heat shrink tubing for decades to improve harness performance and maximize wear life for their OEM customers. For example, Caterpillar requires heat shrink tubing be applied to the harnesses used in its construction equipment.
HST also offers other important benefits, such as smoothing out rough surfaces, and providing thermal and electrical insulation. Adhesive-backed tubing provides a strong seal against moisture and chemicals that can corrode harness components.