Heat tape question...

[MDT]

I'm constructing some shelving with 6" heat tape in lengths of 70". How should one secure the tape to the shelving? Aluminum tape?

Thanks in advance for any assistance :)

[Mikoh4792]

That's how they are secured in my RBI rack system(at the ends of the heat tape)... the heat tape came installed with the aluminum tape so I'm guessing that should be alright, as long as the ends are insulated.

However maybe you could also cut grooves in the shelving so you only have to secure the ends like the RBI rack system, securing the rest just by fitting the tape into the grooves.

[franks]

Yes, aluminum tape is the easiest way. It is very tacky so keep that in mind. You should tape all the sides and not leave any gaps in between strips to avoid edges getting caught.

[franks]

(home depot sells rolls in the duct/work and vent section. Any hardware store that sells registers or ductwork should carry the tape rolls.)

[MDT]

Thanks gents! That helps :)

[KORBIN5895]

Honestly aluminum tape is a bad idea. Heat tape wears out and fails, especially with a bin rubbing on it often. If the tape melts or the laminate peels back it could electrify the aluminum tape.

[Hurrok]

Couldn't you just use electrical tape?

[MDT]

Soooo....aluminum may be bad? Electrical tape possible? Will the heat from the tape affect the adhesive on either tape?

Kevin, thoughts on securing the heat tape? I'm guessing there are probably several options. I just don't want to pick the one that will burn my house down.

[KORBIN5895]

Plain gray duct tape is what I'd try. Burning your house down would be bad......

[MDT]

Burning your house down would be bad......

No truer words have been spoken :)

[smy_749]

I use aluminum tape on plastic heat cable. I hate the stuff personally, and it tears very easily, nothing like duct tape. Not sure how well the laminate holds up though. I have it taped around the outside of a roach bin. What are you planning on getting that requires all that shelving? Have babies on the way/????

[MDT]

Nope, no babies on the way, just trying to make "the snake room" (aka the den) a little more presentable. Funny, when you just add that *one more* enclosure and your wife gets all "what have you done to the den?!?!?!?" on you.....

Snakes or guns....at least I can hide my guns a little easier.

[franks]

I would not use duct tape. Duct tape will trap the heat where-as the aluminum tape will conduct it. There is not really a safety concern with aluminum tape. If you have a rip in the heat tape- and it does not short itself out- it will be a safety hazard. Aluminum tape does not really conduct electricity. It is coated on both sides with an oxide-layer.

Electrical tape is a bad idea because it does not tack well and will eventually come up.

Edit: to be specific: aluminum does conduct electricity obviously- the coating on the tape will not.

[KORBIN5895]

There is no heat on the edges of heat tape because of the lack of elements.

Also I am totally going to get my continuity tester out and check now.......

[LarryS]

Even if the adhesive/film does present somewhat of an insulation barrier, the cut edges will easily conduct current. Any possible safety concern should be avoided in my opinion.

Also check the manufacturers installation sheet for safety tips.

If installing on a shelf, rout a recess in the shelf to provide an air gap between the heat tape and the tub bottom. This will also prevent the tub from wearing into the heat tape.

Use the factory provided electrical connectors as opposed to soldering. Soldered connections are ok, but how do you insulate them properly? Most tape will eventually come loose and liquid tape does not provide a thick enough insulation barrier, especially on the edges.

Any corded electrical device should have the cord secured to prevent it from accidentally being torn loose at the connections. It can be secured to the frame with a strain relief for safety.

Lastly make sure the film is controlled to prevent overheating. Some of the models have a high watt/density and can get very hot.

Here is the tech page from Calorique, one of the heat tape manufacturers. There is some good information.

Technical Information Sheets - Calorique (http://www.calorique.com/resources/technical-information-sheets/index.html)

Don't forget to post pictures of your build!

[MDT]

Thanks Larry....the tape was cut to specified length and all connectors assembled by Reptile Basics when I ordered. They will be on thermostats for control and via email communication w/RB, the calculated wattage per stat is appropriate.

All good info. Much appreciated :)

[franks]

There is no heat on the edges of heat tape because of the lack of elements.

Also I am totally going to get my continuity tester out and check now.......

I wanted to do that. Let me know what brand tape you use and the results- I would be very interested.

[LarryS]

I was out in the shop and got to thinking about this thread. I rounded up a battery from my impact driver, a tester and some foil tape.

The top side does indeed conduct very well.

http://rsmg.pbsrc.com/albums/v393/inkahootz/Mobile%20Uploads/image-5.jpg~320x480

And so do the edges.

http://rsmg.pbsrc.com/albums/v393/inkahootz/Mobile%20Uploads/image-6.jpg~320x480

But not the adhesive side.

http://rsmg.pbsrc.com/albums/v393/inkahootz/Mobile%20Uploads/image-4.jpg~320x480

Personally I would still avoid using foil tape on heat tape if it is going to be exposed, but it looks like the adhesive will provide an insulating barrier.

Any way hope your project is coming along nicely.