Introduction
A mica tube is a reliable insulating component widely used in electrical and thermal protection applications. With high dielectric strength, excellent heat resistance, and chemical durability, mica tubes play a vital role in safeguarding wires, cables, and equipment operating under high temperature and voltage conditions.

YILONG, a leading manufacturer of insulation materials in China, produces high-quality mica tubes that meet global standards and serve industries including power generation, automotive, aerospace, and heavy electrical machinery.
According to market research, the global mica tube market reached USD 123 million in 2024, and it is expected to grow steadily to USD 180 million by 2033, driven by rising demand for advanced insulation materials.
|
Year |
Global Market Size (USD Million) |
|
2024 |
123 |
|
2033 |
180 |
What is a Mica Tube
A mica tube is a strong cylindrical insulating product made from natural mica sheets bonded with high-temperature-resistant adhesives. These tubes are designed to withstand high electrical stresses and extreme temperatures, providing both mechanical and electrical protection for conductors.
Key benefits of YILONG mica tubes:
l Excellent dielectric insulation performance
l Thermal stability up to 1200°C
l Chemical and moisture resistance
l High mechanical strength and dimensional stability
Composition and Structure
The performance of a mica tube depends on its structure. YILONG mica tubes are built from layered mica paper or flakes, impregnated with heat-resistant silicone or epoxy resins, and rolled into cylindrical shapes.
|
Features |
Contribution to Insulation Performance |
|
Layered mica sheets |
Enhances dielectric insulation at high voltages |
|
Heat-resistant adhesive |
Maintains integrity at high temperatures |
|
Lightweight design |
Easy installation and durable use |
|
High mechanical strength |
Withstands vibration and pressure |
|
Thermal resistance |
Operates safely up to 1200°C |
Types of Mica Used
YILONG produces mica tubes using two main mica types:
|
Type |
Characteristics |
Common Applications |
|
Muscovite Mica |
Excellent dielectric and mechanical strength |
Electronics, capacitors, transformers |
|
Phlogopite Mica |
Superior heat resistance and flexibility |
Motors, furnaces, industrial heaters |
Selecting the right mica type ensures the insulation performs well under the required thermal and electrical stress.
Key Properties of Mica Tubes
1. Dielectric Strength
Mica tubes are known for exceptional dielectric strength, offering better electrical insulation than fiberglass or ceramic materials.
|
Material |
Dielectric Strength (kV/mm) |
|
Mica Sheet |
118 – 140 |
|
Industrial Mica |
≈20 |
|
FR-4 / G10 Laminate |
19 – 24 |
This makes YILONG mica tubes ideal for high-voltage motors, transformers, and switchgear.
2. Thermal Resistance
YILONG mica tubes maintain excellent performance at extreme temperatures, up to 1200°C, making them suitable for furnaces, heating elements, and electrical appliances.
|
Material |
Maximum Operating Temperature (°C) |
|
Mica Tube |
1200 |
|
Fiberglass |
200 |
|
Ceramic |
1000 |
3. Chemical and Physical Durability
Mica tubes resist acids, oils, moisture, and corrosion. They do not rust, absorb water, or deform under mechanical pressure, ensuring long service life even in harsh industrial environments.
Advantages:
l High resistance to chemicals and solvents
l Non-hygroscopic (does not absorb water)
l Long-term stability and surface integrity
4. Mechanical Strength
The laminated mica structure provides superior mechanical toughness. YILONG mica tubes can endure bending, vibration, and compression without cracking—making them reliable in dynamic or heavy-duty systems.
Applications of Mica Tubes
YILONG mica tubes are used across industries that demand reliable insulation in high-voltage or high-temperature environments.
|
Application |
Description |
Operating Temperature |
|
High-Voltage Motors & Generators |
Coil insulation, phase separation |
Up to 1000°C |
|
Electric Vehicles (EVs) |
Battery insulation and thermal protection |
Up to 800°C |
|
Aerospace & Defense |
High-temperature wiring, shielding |
Up to 1000°C |
|
Power Generation Equipment |
Insulation in turbines and alternators |
Up to 1200°C |
|
Industrial Furnaces |
Heat insulation and protection tubes |
Up to 1200°C |
Wire and Cable Insulation
Mica tubes are also used for wire and cable protection, especially in fire-resistant systems. They prevent flame spread and maintain insulation integrity even during electrical faults.
|
Property |
Benefit |
|
Thermal Stability |
Maintains shape under heat |
|
Dielectric Strength |
Prevents current leakage |
|
Fire Resistance |
Non-flammable, self-extinguishing |
|
Mechanical Strength |
Withstands pressure and bending |
|
Durability |
Resistant to chemicals and water |
Selection Guide
Choosing the right mica tube depends on voltage, temperature, and working environment. YILONG provides customized solutions based on these factors.
|
Voltage Level |
Minimum Wall Thickness |
Typical Application |
|
Low Voltage (<1kV) |
1–2 mm |
Consumer electronics |
|
Medium Voltage (1–10kV) |
3–5 mm |
Industrial motors, transformers |
|
High Voltage (>10kV) |
≥5 mm |
Power generation and transmission |
Other factors to consider:
l Operating temperature range
l Exposure to chemicals or moisture
l Required mechanical strength
l Compliance with international standards
Quality Standards and Certifications
YILONG mica tubes comply with major international standards to ensure product reliability and safety:
|
Standard |
Description |
|
ASTM D748-18 |
Mica dielectric materials for capacitors |
|
ASTM D351-18 |
Classification of natural muscovite mica |
|
ASTM D1039-16(2022) |
Glass-bonded mica test methods |
|
ASTM D352-23 |
Pasted mica for electrical insulation |
|
ISO 15541 |
Fireproof and heat-resistant sleeve standard |
|
EN 45545-2 |
Fire safety for rail applications |
|
NFPA 70 |
U.S. electrical safety code compliance |
Common Issues and Solutions
Improper selection may lead to insulation failure. Common problems include cracks, insufficient wall thickness, or chemical degradation. To prevent this:
l Match the voltage and temperature ratings
l Choose the correct mica type (muscovite or phlogopite)
l Verify certifications before purchase
l Inspect for surface defects before installation
Conclusion
Mica tubes remain one of the most effective materials for electrical insulation and thermal protection. With a proven performance up to 1200°C and superior dielectric strength, they outperform fiberglass and ceramics in demanding environments.
YILONG provides premium-quality mica tubes that combine durability, reliability, and safety, helping customers improve equipment performance and extend service life.
Tip: Always choose YILONG Mica Tubes for applications requiring both heat and electrical insulation—ensuring long-term stability, safety, and compliance with global standards.