Split loom tubing is a versatile and essential tool used in various industries to organize and protect electrical wires, cables, and hoses. Whether you’re working in automotive repair, home improvement, or general cable management, split loom tubing offers a practical solution for managing wires while preventing damage. In this article, we’ll explore what split loom tubing is, its benefits, and common applications.
What Is Split Loom Tubing?
Split loom tubing is a flexible, corrugated plastic tube with a slit running along its length. This design allows wires and cables to be easily inserted through the slit without the need to disconnect or cut them. The tubing typically comes in a range of diameters to accommodate different wire sizes, from small bundles of thin cables to thicker industrial wires split loom tubing.
The material used in split loom tubing is usually polyethylene, which is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and moisture. The tubing is available in various colors, with black being the most common due to its UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Benefits of Split Loom Tubing
- Protection from Abrasion and Damage: One of the primary functions of split loom tubing is to protect wires and cables from wear and tear. The corrugated surface shields the cables from sharp edges, rubbing, or vibrations that could cause the insulation to wear out or the wires to break over time.
- Cable Organization: Split loom tubing helps organize multiple cables into a single bundle, making it easier to manage and identify wires. This is particularly useful in automotive applications where numerous wires run close together.
- Easy Installation: Thanks to the slit along its length, installing split loom tubing is straightforward. You can simply open the slit and insert the cables without needing to unplug or rewire them. The tubing then closes around the cables, providing a secure fit.
- Heat and Chemical Resistance: The polyethylene material used in split loom tubing is highly resistant to heat, making it ideal for use in areas where wires may be exposed to higher temperatures, such as under the hood of a car. It also resists many chemicals, ensuring that it remains intact in environments where oil, grease, or other substances are present.
- Improved Aesthetics: In addition to providing protection, split loom tubing improves the overall appearance of cable installations by covering unsightly wires and giving a clean, professional look.
Common Applications
- Automotive Industry: Split loom tubing is widely used in the automotive industry to protect and organize wiring harnesses. The tubing shields wires from engine heat, oil, and other hazards, ensuring that the electrical system remains intact.
- Home and Office Cable Management: Whether it’s for organizing computer cables, entertainment systems, or home appliances, split loom tubing is a great solution to keep wires tidy and prevent tangling or damage from furniture.
- Marine and RV Applications: For boats and recreational vehicles, split loom tubing protects wires and cables from harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to moisture, salt, and UV rays.
- Industrial Settings: In factories and other industrial environments, split loom tubing is used to manage and protect cables that run across equipment or through walls, helping to avoid electrical hazards and cable breakdowns.
- Home Appliances and Electronics: Split loom tubing is often used to manage wiring in household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and HVAC systems, ensuring that cables stay protected and organized.
How to Install Split Loom Tubing
Installing split loom tubing is a quick and easy process. Here are the basic steps:
- Measure the Length: Determine the length of tubing you need based on the wires or cables you’re looking to cover.
- Open the Slit: Gently open the slit along the tubing.
- Insert the Cables: Place the cables or wires inside the tubing by sliding them into the slit.
- Secure the Ends: For a more secure installation, use cable ties or electrical tape to secure the ends of the tubing, preventing it from slipping off the wires.
- Routing: Route the tubing along your desired path, ensuring it doesn’t bend too sharply or pinch the wires inside.
Conclusion
Split loom tubing is a practical and cost-effective solution for protecting and organizing cables in a wide variety of applications. Its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation make it a go-to choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re managing cables in your car, home, or workplace, split loom tubing offers long-lasting protection and an organized, clutter-free setup.