Self-amalgamating tape

Self-amalgamating tape is a non-tacky silicone-rubber tape which when stretched and wrapped around cables, electrical joints, hoses and pipes combines or unites itself into a strong, seamless, rubbery, waterproof, and electrically insulating layer.^[1][2] Unlike many other polymers and fibers, it is heat-, sunlight-, and weather-resistant. This type of tape is also described, particularly in the United States, as "self-fusing",^[3][4] or "self-vulcanizing". In the US Air Force (and elsewhere) it is called centerline tape due to a colored line running down the center used to assist with even wrapping. It is also called F4, tommy, rescue, and fix-it tape.^[5]

While not adhesive to the repaired object, it is self-adhesive, securing the bond well. It is supplied in rolls with an interleaving layer, to prevent the tape from amalgamating before use. It may optionally be made with an iron-oxide additive which adds high thermal conductivity. This tape is used extensively in aviation and aerospace wiring applications as a splice or wrapping tape due to its non-flammability. It can be used for emergency repair of leaking low-pressure hoses and pipes.

Compared to most other electrical and utility tapes, centerline tape is not particularly tough mechanically. Silicone rubber feels soft and is also susceptible to cuts and abrasion, having low tear resistance. This weakness is made worse because this tape is wrapped while stretched, and remains under internal tension even while fused, so that any nicks or cuts may start to tear and expand without additional external tension.^[6] However, these same properties, combined with the lack of traditional gum adhesive, make tape removal, if needed, quick, clean, and easy.

Another form of self-amalgamating tape is made from ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and has similar uses as silicone self-amalgamating tape but is non-vulcanising and has good moisture resistance. It is primarily used for insulating and moisture sealing joints, splices and connections in electrical cables up to high voltages.

PIB (Polyisobutylene) rubber self-amalgamating tape is used for more general purpose electrical lower voltage sealing and insulating cable applications.^[7]

References

1. "Self-Amalgamating Waterproof Tape". Maplin Electronics. Retrieved 1 September 2013.
2. "3M Self Amalgamating Tape - Scotch 23 Linered Premium Rubber (EPR) and 130C Linerless Premium Rubber EPR". 3M. Retrieved 1 September 2013.
3. "Silicone & Fluorosilicone Self-Fusing Insulating Tapes" (PDF). Simrit Division of Freudenberg-NOK, Plymouth/Michigan. 2003. Retrieved 1 September 2013.
4. "Insulating and Splicing Tapes - Scotch 23 Rubber Splicing Tape and Scotch 70 Self-Fusing Silicone Rubber Electrical Tape". 3M. Retrieved 1 September 2013.
5. Rennlist Discussion Forums > Water Cooled Technical Discussion Areas >
   Frayed cable - How do I fix this? (Fixed!)
   May 19, 2010 - 15 posts - 8 authors
   "The self fusing silicon tape is the only way to go in the engine bay. It's known also as F4 tape and centerline tape. You can get it at...." (Retrieved April, 2014)
6. Robinson Rubber – Polymer & Material Selection Guide, 2005, (PDF) - Limitations in performance of silicone rubber includes abrasion resistance, impact resistance, and tear resistance.
7. Scapa tape solutions