Overview
PVC insulating sleeves are low-cost, corrosion-resistant insulating components used to isolate conductors, protect cables, and separate metal parts in electrical and industrial equipment. Rigid PVC combines good dielectric strength, chemical resistance, and flame retardance with easy machining, making it a practical choice for insulating sleeves and spacers in general electrical service.
ORRO Manufacturing machines PVC insulating sleeves to precise bore and wall tolerances, holding the concentricity needed for conductor and cable routing. We machine clean edges and chamfers and can supply sleeves in grey, white, or custom colors, with flame-retardant grades available on request.
Material Properties
| Property | Rigid PVC |
|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 1.38 - 1.45 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 40 - 55 |
| Flexural Modulus (GPa) | 2.4 - 3.0 |
| Max Continuous Temperature (°C) | 55 - 60 |
| Dielectric Strength (kV/mm) | 15 - 20 |
| Volume Resistivity (Ω·cm) | 10¹⁶ |
| Water Absorption (%) | < 0.5 |
| Flammability | Self-extinguishing (FR grades) |
Key Advantages
- Good Electrical Insulation: Dielectric strength of 15-20 kV/mm insulates conductors and terminals.
- Chemical and Moisture Resistance: Withstands water, acids, alkalis, and many industrial fluids.
- Flame Retardant Options: Self-extinguishing grades improve electrical safety.
- Low Cost: One of the most economical insulating materials available.
- Easy to Machine and Bond: Cuts, drills, and bonds cleanly for simple fabrication.
- Corrosion Resistant: Does not rust or corrode like metal sleeves.
Typical Applications
Electrical Panels and Switchgear
Insulating sleeves and spacers that isolate conductors and protect wiring.
Cable and Wire Protection
Sleeves that guide, protect, and insulate cables in machinery and enclosures.
General Industrial Insulation
Spacers and standoffs in pumps, appliances, and equipment where cost matters.
Machining Capabilities
| Parameter | Capability |
|---|---|
| Tolerance | ±0.05 mm (bore), ±0.1 mm (outside diameter) |
| Surface Finish | Ra 1.6 - 3.2 μm |
| Size Range | 5 mm to 200 mm diameter |
| Key Processes | CNC turning, boring, drilling, chamfering |
Application Case
Control panel insulating sleeve, rigid PVC — A control-panel builder needed low-cost insulating sleeves to separate busbars from a mounting plate while withstanding occasional moisture. ORRO machined PVC sleeves to a ±0.05 mm bore tolerance, delivering 50,000 units in 14 days. The sleeves provided reliable insulation at a fraction of the cost of machined plastic alternatives.
