Several of the more knowledgeable tech types have recommended Kapton tape for various insulating jobs, and I'm going to get some. Just a couple of questions for those with experience using it:
-- The most common thickness is 1 mil. Does this have enough strength and puncture resistance for typical use such as insulating tenders, etc. or should I be looking for the 2-2.5 mil?
-- Does Kapton have any stretch to it?
Thanks in advance.
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One mil is fine. The tape is very tough and has no stretch in it at all. Think Mylar. I now use it to isolate tender shells in most of my TMCC conversions.
Thanks, that's one of the uses I have in mind.
What is the best width for the tender usage?
Mort
What is the best width for the tender usage?
Mort
Sorry to take so long to reply. The tape I use is 3/4" which works well for most applications. I did have a couple of tenders where 1/2" was better. I just cut my tape narrower with scissors and used the "factory" cut along the edge of the tender frame.
Previously I used electrical tape and there were some cases when I'd need to file the edges of the tender frame (like for streamlined and skirted PRR T1 tenders) to provide clearance for the added thickness of the tape. Kapton tape is so thin that no filing is necessary.
Where do you buy it?
Where do you buy it?
Amazon and eBay are a couple of sources. Just search for "Kapton tape."
I have found 3/8" width to be the easiest to work with, when insulating a tender, for a TMCC conversion. The only time it has not been wide enough, is with some brass tenders, which have a tab on the shell, into which the frame screws. I find it easier to have to add an occasional piece than to trim excess.
George
I use this on a regular basis for all sorts of applications. For electrical insulation, this tape will hold off far beyond normal model RR applications. (Like several thousand volts). I use it to hold wires to the inside of a shell or building. It does not crack or dry out like conventional electrical tape, and its much thinner.
I have even used it to make rivets. Cut into thin strips, run a pounce wheel along the strip, then attach to the body of whatever you are modeling. You can press the tape in place, and the "rivets" will stay embossed:
I have a roll of 3/8" and 1" Kapton, I normally use the 3/8" for insulating the tenders. I use the 1" for insulating boards or the sides of a boiler if I'm worried about something hitting it and shorting.
I use the 1mil stuff, if you're worried about a specific task, just put another layer on.
I use this on a regular basis for all sorts of applications. For electrical insulation, this tape will hold off far beyond normal model RR applications. (Like several thousand volts). I use it to hold wires to the inside of a shell or building. It does not crack or dry out like conventional electrical tape, and its much thinner.
I have even used it to make rivets. Cut into thin strips, run a pounce wheel along the strip, then attach to the body of whatever you are modeling. You can press the tape in place, and the "rivets" will stay embossed:
John,
Where can I purchase this sweet TOFC?
Thanks,
Eric
Eric
That is a kitbash. It started as a Weaver 35 foot trailer. I shaved off the ribs, and added a styrene sheet with the Kapton Rivet strips made as I described above. I drew the Spector Freight Lines artwork with Microsoft Power Point, using old truck photos as a guide. I then printed out the decals using my laser jet printer
John,
Thanks for the reply. Beautiful car.
Eric
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