Best Heat Shrink Gun For 2024
Brandon Forder Apr 26, 2024 8:05 PM
If you have ever used a heat gun before, you know that it is a powerful instrument that can be put to a variety of different DIY purposes, while being widely underappreciated. Common uses for heat guns include shrink wrapping packages for added security during shipment and de-icing outdoor furniture and boats in the dead of winter.
The air is sucked into the tool via a fan, warmed up by an element (occasionally with infrared heat), and then expelled at high pressure (depending on the fan speed) through a nozzle. The usage of a heat gun is unparalleled when it comes to heat shrink wrap and heat shrink tubing. It's amazing how many different things you can do with these instruments, from removing paint to thawing pipes to finishing off artistic endeavors.
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Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
Power source
The heat gun's power supply should be your first consideration. If you need to use your heat gun in a location without access to an electrical outlet, you may want to consider purchasing a cordless, battery-operated type. (Remember, cordless models have a finite amount of time before they need to be recharged.) Other heat guns use gas, often butane, and are available for use in certain situations.
Temperature range
Keep in mind that the heat gun's temperature setting can reach up to 1,200 F. When used for tasks like paint peeling, a heat gun needs to reach extremely high temperatures; however, if you're only going to be using it for crafting, a model that just reaches 200 or 300 degrees Fahrenheit may be sufficient. In addition, some models include a range of temperatures from which to choose, while others have only high and low options. The heat gun's fan speed and the number of included attachments are two other features to consider.
Temperature settings
The hot air gun's adjustable temperature makes it simple to find the optimal setting for shrink wrapping applications. Wrap holes and burns can be prevented by using a low fan setting, which also provides for greater control over the entire operation.
Overload protection
To avoid accidentally setting fire to the house, this feature will turn off your heat gun if it becomes too hot. Although high-temperature protection should be standard, not all models provide it. When using a heat gun, it is best to use one constructed from a material that can withstand high temperatures. To protect yourself from the tools' temperatures, heat-resistant safety gloves are a must.
Nozzle accessories
Heat guns can use a wide variety of nozzles. To ensure that the entire countertop is heated, the nozzles are flat. Nozzles with special side wings, called glass protectors, prevent damage to glass and other heat-sensitive materials during the shrinking process, while nozzles with rounded edges, called spoon reflectors, are ideal for shrinking cables. A reflector nozzle can be used to make bending plastic, pipes, and tubing easier, while an air reduction nozzle can be used to muffle the compressor's noise, making it suitable for operation even in residential areas. However, if the model you want doesn't come with any extra nozzles, you may always buy some separately.
Brand
When it comes to tools, I only want to buy well-respected manufacturers. I say this because I have personal experience with their superior durability and reliability compared to similar products. But it doesn't mean I won't check out comparable alternatives, especially if they're cheaper.
Durability
If you're a professional or a DIYer working on many projects at once, this is crucial. A loss of time and money might result from a malfunctioning tool.
The weapons also need to be sturdy enough to survive the rough conditions common on construction and industrial sites.
Functionality
A heat pistol that is comfortable to hold is a must-have for me. This is crucial for me because I frequently have workers present for long periods of time. Having a convenient tool will help them get more done without wearing themselves out.
Package Price
I consider the heat gun's pricing and packaging equally important when making a purchase. When making a purchase, I don't always choose the lowest one. Instead, I try to get the item that will provide the most bang for my buck.
How Do You Heat Shrink Tubing ?
The brand's instructions for heat shrinking the tubing should be followed. However, some tubing already has lead solder within, eliminating the need to crimp before heating to seal.
The wires can be guided through the heat shrink tube with with one hand because some of them are designed to do just that. When using others, you have to hold both ends of the cable to get it straight. You'll need to use the heat gun's automatic sealing feature if this is the case.
Before using the heat gun, you should read the instructions included with the heat shrink tubing. Taking this precaution will ensure that you are not wasting energy or cable in the process.
What Temperature Does Heat Shrink Tubing Melt ?
To a variable degree, heat shrink tubing can melt. Make sure you don't overheat it by reading the package's directions.
Polyolefin, however, is used for the vast majority of heat shrink tubes. The typical melting point for this is about 90 degrees Celsius. Resin tubing, on the other hand, has a higher melting point of 260 degrees Celsius.
Are these heat guns noisier?
In terms of loudness, the heat guns typically perform at the same level as a standard or significantly quieter hairdryer. The robustness of the heat gun and its operation mode inform the calculated noise frequency. While increasing the gun's heat setting will increase the noise level, different models include varying degrees of intensity. Therefore, the volume of your heat gun will vary with the intensity at which you use it.
Shall a heat gun start a fire?
Nevertheless, a heat gun's blast of scorching air poses much less risk than direct exposure to flame. However, it can set fire to highly combustible items, shatter glass, and cause other damage if directed at flesh or skin.
On the other hand, there is a risk of ignition from the fan motors and power switches. Some technologies used to control the spread of fire involve the use of heat, such as heat guns and open containers containing flammable gases, chemicals, or hoods. In order to avoid the potential for a fire, it is not utilized with anything that could catch fire easily.
When it comes to heat shrink tubing, nothing beats employing a heat shrink gun. In place of a heat gun, a hair dryer can be used to decrease some tubing sizes, but not all. This is particularly important when working with thick tubing or tubing composed of hard materials.
Having the best heat gun for heat shrink tubing is essential if you want to achieve a professional outcome. And now that you know what to look for in a good heat gun for electronics, you can find one that meets your demands exactly.
