Braided fiberglass sleeves with 1/16" wall thickness and 1/8" wall thickness are commonly used in various applications for thermal and mechanical protection. These sleeves are designed to provide insulation, abrasion resistance, and heat resistance in demanding environments. Here's an overview of their characteristics and applications:

1. Braided Fiberglass Sleeve with 1/16" Wall:
Wall Thickness: 1/16" (approximately 1.6 mm)
Material: Typically made of fiberglass, which is known for its excellent thermal resistance and durability.
Characteristics:
Offers good thermal insulation.
Provides protection against abrasion, chemicals, and UV radiation.
Lightweight and flexible.
Resistant to most oils, solvents, and fuels.
Applications:
Wire and cable harnesses: Protects electrical wires and cables from heat and abrasion.
Automotive: Used in automotive applications for thermal protection.
Industrial equipment: Provides insulation in various industrial settings.
Welding applications: Protects hoses and cables from sparks and heat

2. Braided Fiberglass Sleeve with 1/8" Wall:
Wall Thickness: 1/8" (approximately 3.2 mm)
Material: Similar to the 1/16" wall sleeve, typically made of fiberglass.
Characteristics:
Offers enhanced thermal insulation compared to the 1/16" wall sleeve.
Provides increased protection against abrasion, heat, and chemicals.
Suitable for more demanding environments.
Maintains flexibility despite the increased wall thickness.
Applications:
High-temperature environments: Suitable for applications where higher thermal resistance is required.
Industrial machinery: Protects hoses, wires, and cables in heavy-duty industrial settings.
Foundry and metalworking: Used to shield components from extreme heat.
Aerospace: Provides insulation in certain aerospace applications.

Both types of braided fiberglass sleeves are designed to be easily installed over existing components, providing a cost-effective solution for thermal and mechanical protection. The specific choice between the 1/16" and 1/8" wall thickness depends on the level of protection required for a particular application and the environmental conditions the sleeves will encounter.