Fire sleeves are flexible tubing made to easily cover hoses, cables, wiring, and fuel, oil feed and brake lines to offer a layer of protection from heat and flame. High-quality sleeves are manufactured from silica glass and fibre braided tubing, coated with silicone rubber, and then infused with iron oxide. The silicon rubber forms an external protection against radiant heat and direct flame, while the braided glass fibre insulates the interior.

As the name suggests,fire proof sleeves are most used as a method of heat and fire protection for hoses, lines, and wiring and cables. While fire sleeves should be able to function at a continuous operating temperature of 260°C, they can also withstand temps over 1000°C for up to 20 minutes. When exposed to a direct flame the sleeve does not burn, instead creating a silicon dioxide crust, further protecting the lines and components from heat and flame.

The strong insulation can also be used to reduce heat loss from hoses, especially in colder climates. Due to the high thermal resistance, fluid in the lines stays at a constant temp and doesn’t fluctuate with ambient temperature.

Fire protection sleeves can reduce the damage caused by leaking or burst fluid lines, creating a protective layer resistant to solvents, bleaches, oils, and acid. By prohibiting the amount of flammable liquid that is released into the engine bay, fire sleeves mitigate the risk of spray onto hot surfaces, limiting damage and the likelihood of engine bay fires.

Another benefit of hose sleeves is to prevent damage caused by surface rubbing. Hoses, fuel lines, and wiring harnesses are vulnerable to friction-wear and cracking, but quality sleeves offer protection, extending the life of the lines. In the same vein, they are also resistant to sharp cuts and pinches, safeguarding from accidental damage.