Heat shrink on Dyneema

[RoyB]

In one of Brion's books, in the instructions for a Spectra/Dyneema double braid splice, there is memtion of when to put heat shrink tubin on the line if it is to be used.

In another section of the same book there is a warning not to use heat shrink on high strength fibres.

I'd like to finish a dbl braid eye splice with heat shrink but not if it will significantly weaken the line.

Any advice welcome

[Bob Pingel]

Yes, Spectra/Dyneema is heat sensitive.

Properly using heat shrink over covered rope should not transfer that much heat to the core. The tubing shrinks quickly and the heat should dissipate quickly. Use a heat gun (no flames) and move quickly.

I prefer to finish with a bit of service (done with tarred marline) -- it gives a cool old school/new school contrast and is very durable. I tape down the tail with friction tape and the serve over the top.

Bob

[NickfromWI]

I, too, prefer to serve it rather than using heat shrink tubing.

love
nick

[audeojude]

Use one of the new self fusing silicon tapes. They stretch and will actually compress the line. You can get them in your choice of colors

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
Yes, I am at best ambivalent about heat-shrink on Spectra. With a melting point of about 280F, it is possible to get the tubing on without damaging the rope, but it is a bit chancy. No point in melting a lifeline under its chafe protection. So I usually use service or self-amalgamating tape these days, which are cooler alternatives in every way.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss