Heat-Shrink Fibre Splice Protectors

V-Protect heat-shrink fibre optic splice protectors provide mechanical protection for fusion splices in trays, closures and distribution boxes. The range covers compact micro sleeves, standard and rigid protectors, larger diameters and flexible variants for different fibre constructions and installation layouts.

Heat-shrink splice protector range

Each V-Protect series has its own combination of finished outer diameter D, inner dimension d and length L. The comparison below helps identify the most relevant product group. Always confirm the exact variant in the current technical data sheet before ordering.

Series group	Series	Catalogue dimensions	Typical selection priority
Micro and compact	V12, V15, V16	V12: D 1.2, d 0.35, L 15–45 mm V15: D 1.5, d 0.5, L 15–45 mm V16: D 1.6, d 1.0, L 20–61 mm	Limited tray space and compact holders
Fast installation	V18, V20, V22	D 1.8 / 2.0 / 2.2, d 1.2, L 20–61 mm	More internal space with increasing finished diameter
Rigid	V24, V25, V26	D 2.4 / 2.5 / 2.6, d 1.2, L 20–61 mm	Greater rigidity and mechanical support
Extra-strong	V28, V30	V28: D 2.8, d 1.2, L 20–61 mm V30: D 3.0, d 1.2, L 30–61 mm	Higher finished diameter and stiffness
Large	V32, V36	V32: D 3.2, d 1.4, L 45–65 mm V36: D 3.6, d 1.4, L 45–68 mm	Larger holders and longer variants
Flexible	VMF, VFX	VMF: D 1.2, d 0.5, L 10–45 mm VFX: D 2.3, d 1.4, L 20–60 mm	Layouts where more flexible routing is required

Need a protector for ribbon fibre or installation without a heat-shrink oven? Compare the VRA and VRB ribbon series or the ANT aluminium crimp protector. The splice protector selection guide explains the differences.

How to choose a heat-shrink fibre optic splice protector

Match the protector to the fibre construction

Start with the actual construction entering the sleeve. A compact protector may be suitable for a 250 µm coated fibre, while a 900 µm buffered construction generally needs more internal clearance. Check the real component diameter after preparation rather than relying only on the cable description.

Measure the splice-tray holder

Compare the holder diameter or width, usable length, cover clearance and spacing between adjacent sleeves. The finished protector must fit without lifting the tray cover or forcing the fibre into an unsuitable bend. For high-density trays, begin with the V12, V15 and V16 series and verify the exact dimensions.

Choose the required length

Catalogue lengths across the heat-shrink range run from 10 to 68 mm. The sleeve must cover the prepared splice area and fit the holder at the same time. Common 40, 45 and 60 mm options are available in several groups, but the correct length depends on the installation rather than a universal standard.

Select rigidity and finished diameter

The reinforcement and finished outer diameter affect how the protected splice behaves in the tray. Compact groups help save space, rigid and extra-strong groups provide more support, and VMF or VFX can be considered where a more flexible layout is needed.

Verify documents and project requirements

When a project, tender or customer specification requires a test, declaration or particular document, verify it for the exact series and current revision. Technical data sheets and available declarations can be found in the Download centre. V-Protect also performs measurements and tests in its LPT Measurement and Test Laboratory.

Applications

• fusion-splice trays in fibre optic closures;
• distribution boxes and patch panels;
• FTTH, access and transport-network installations;
• telecommunications, data-centre and industrial fibre projects;
• OEM assemblies and customer-specific packaging requirements.

European manufacturing and B2B supply

V-Protect manufactures fibre optic splice protectors in Europe and supplies distributors, network integrators and equipment manufacturers. The broad dimensional range allows buyers to compare multiple sleeve groups from one producer, while technical documentation supports product qualification and repeat purchasing.

For an OEM or non-standard enquiry, provide the fibre construction, holder dimensions, preferred length and rigidity, required documents, planned quantity and packaging format. V-Protect can assess whether an existing series meets the requirement or whether another solution should be evaluated.

Frequently asked questions

What is a heat-shrink fibre optic splice protector?

It is a protective sleeve installed over a prepared fusion splice. During the heating cycle, the tubing shrinks around the splice while a reinforcing element provides mechanical support. The selected sleeve must match the fibre construction, splice length and tray holder.

Are fibre splice sleeves and splice protectors the same product?

These terms are commonly used for the same product category. Other search terms include fusion splice protection sleeve, heat-shrink splice sleeve and fibre optic splice protector. Always compare dimensions and construction, not the name alone.

Which sleeve should be used for 250 µm or 900 µm fibre?

For a compact 250 µm construction, V12 or V15 may be a useful starting point. A 900 µm buffered construction normally needs more internal clearance, so compare series with a larger d dimension. Final selection must also account for the holder, length and rigidity.

Is a 60 mm splice sleeve always the standard choice?

No. Sixty millimetres is common in many installations, but shorter and longer variants may fit the splice and tray better. V-Protect catalogue lengths extend from 10 to 68 mm depending on the series.

What is the difference between heat-shrink and crimp splice protectors?

Heat-shrink protectors require a controlled heating cycle and are available in many diameters, lengths and rigidity groups. The ANT aluminium protector is crimped with the dedicated ANT-PT tool and does not require a heat-shrink oven.

Can V-Protect supply OEM splice protectors?

OEM and non-standard requirements can be submitted for assessment. Include dimensional, construction, quantity, documentation and packaging information so the team can evaluate an existing series or another possible solution.