somewhat OT: best electical tape?

[wallymann]

i've been using 3M/scotch super 33+ stuff. it seems to get slimy over time, pretty quickly actually, adhesive starts to let go, leaves black residue on whatever, making a mess, also doesnt tolerate heat very well.

basically, it's crap -- which i find surprising as the reviews i've read were quite glowing. and if i recall correctly, i've use super 33 in the past and it was fine...but the current batch i have is the pits, maybe defective or fake product?

anyways...what are some good options? ideally with a strong adhesive that doesnt deteriorate and tolerates heat.

[charliedid]

Forget elec. tape.

https://www.amazon.com/ESI-Silicone-Tape-Consumers-Black/dp/B00PGP3Y2K/ref=asc_df_B00PGP3Y2K/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312430092407&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10775349890480158865&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021731&hvtargid=pla-440283773882&psc=1

[Hank Scorpio]

Nashua silicone tape available at your local home depot in black, clear and red. Only draw back is it a bit wide for finishing tape. I think 1 inch.

[wallymann]

fwiw...i often use silicone and rubber self-amalgamating tapes as suggested for the right application (i.e., finishing tape)...but in some cases i need a tape that actually sticks to the item being taped, not just to itself -- hence electical tape!

[rnhood]

3M Super 88 is considered one of the better electrical tapes however, how much better than 33+ for cycling application I don't know. But it should be more robust. Keep in mind that electrical tapes are first and foremost electrical tapes, and they need to maintain their insulative properties. Leaving rubber residue is at the bottom of their priorities.

If you have a roll more than a year or two old, throw it away and buy a new one. I have not had any issues with newer tape. It doesn't need to be stretched hard when applying either.

As others have said, you can try silicone tape and it might work better for cycling applications (taping handlebars).

[charliedid]

fwiw...i often use silicone and rubber self-amalgamating tapes as suggested for the right application (i.e., finishing tape)...but in some cases i need a tape that actually sticks to the item being taped, not just to itself -- hence electical tape!

Ah I see. Carry on

[jlwdm]

3M Super 33+ has worked great for me for years in the heat of Arizona and Texas.

Jeff

[wallymann]

i musta bought a bad batch. {shrug}

3M Super 33+ has worked great for me for years in the heat of Arizona and Texas.

Jeff

[MikeD]

Nashua silicone tape available at your local home depot in black, clear and red. Only draw back is it a bit wide for finishing tape. I think 1 inch.



I bought some Super Glue silicone tape. Waste of money. I couldn't get it to work as a finishing tape (wouldn't stick well enough). Electrical tape works better.

[wallymann]

I bought some Super Glue silicone tape. Waste of money. I couldn't get it to work as a finishing tape (wouldn't stick well enough). Electrical tape works better.

self amalgamating tape does really-really well as finishing tape.

[kppolich]

Another +1 for the ESI finishing tape. Super nice stuff and will not come loose over time. Nice grip and finish as well.
Here is what it looks like. Good grip and squish, doesn't stretch and heals into itself.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48824267318_2f72d47321_z.jpg
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48824633851_ccd3541437_c.jpg

[mtechnica]

3M makes the best electrical tape.

[jfranci3]

What are you taping? Just finishing handlebar tape? Heat Shrink tubes work great if you've got everything apart. GearTape is nice because it has a cloth finish, but its not made to come off though.

[HTupolev]

it seems to get slimy over time, pretty quickly actually, adhesive starts to let go, leaves black residue on whatever, making a mess
When you're using electrical tape on bar tape, don't put much tension on it. The bar tape needs tension, the electrical tape does not.

[huck*this]

When you're using electrical tape on bar tape, don't put much tension on it. The bar tape needs tension, the electrical tape does not.

What he said. Press down with your finger while you slowly roll it. Then cut with scissors. When you add tension is when it comes apart over time.

[Seramount]

wasn't aware of the silicon self-fusing stuff until it was mentioned here a while back.

great for finishing bars, like the sheen and that it's slightly thicker.

will never go back to electrical tape.