Self amalgamating waterproof tape

[masona]

We're just waiting for the Electrical Engineer inspection report.

I forgot to ask him, this is from our solar panel cables and shouldn't they've used the self amalgamating waterproof tape rather than the pvc tape?

I know there should be a proper connection but looking at the white pvc tape and I'm assuming it's not waterproof type tape?

Looks like they are perishing away and not sure why they are there unless for labeling?

Untitled

• masona
• 13 Dec 2014
• 2

 

[Spark123]

Nope, also when it gets warmer tape can just drop off.
You are correct in that it needs to be done with something waterproof but I wouldn't use self amalgamating tape, some sort of proper connector would be the best.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Why have you started a new thread?

 

[masona]

Just 1 question rather than read the whole thread

 

[stillp]

No tape is properly waterproof. They should have used proper connectors.

 

[masona]

Nope, also when it gets warmer tape can just drop off.
You are correct in that it needs to be done with something waterproof but I wouldn't use self amalgamating tape, some sort of proper connector would be the best.

What is amalgamating tape mainly for?

It's better than pvc tape?

 

[EFLImpudence]

I would disagree that it is not waterproof so that is why it is used.

Not in this case though as obviously two wires side by side will have two spaces/channels along their length.

 

[stillp]

It amalgamates with itself, not to whatever it's wrapped around. About the only way to achieve a waterproof joint (other than a proper connector, or a gel-filled joint) is to use dual-wall heatshrink sleeving, which is lined with a hot-melt adhesive.

 

[EFLImpudence]

Yes but there is similar tape which is used for water leaks.

Obviously it has to be tight enough.

I take it you agree that the tape itself IS waterproof.

 

[Spark123]

What is amalgamating tape mainly for?

It's better than pvc tape?

It can be used for making cables water tight however I don't know how it will cope in direct sunlight.
It will be better than pvc tape yes, however it isn't the proper tool for the job.

 

[stillp]

Yes, the tape itself is waterproof, but I've never seen a tape that would prevent water creeping along the boundary between the tape and whatever it's stuck to. PVC tape is perhaps better then the self-amalgamating type, until it falls off after a week or two.
AFAIC, SA tape is for bundling cables into a harness, PVC is for identification by colour.

 

[EFLImpudence]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRpkklLqoKI

There are several brands.

 

[stillp]

Interesting. How long does it last when temperature cycled?

 

[EFLImpudence]

Quote "Exceptionally long life". ?

 

[Adam_151]

It needs re-making with a set of MC4 connectors. Simple job for someone with the right tooling and connectors*.


*Noticed that you can even get the connectors and tool from maplins these days!