Self-fusing tapes, also known as vulcanizing or self-amalgamating tapes, are tools that help us make cable splices or electrical insulation. They also help create moisture seals and thermal insulation.
Electrical Insulation
Unlike electrical tape, self-fusing tape has properties that make it useful in high-temperature environments (up to 90° C). It can also insulate electronic components that need to be submerged in water.
This type of tape is made from a heat-shrinkable rubbery material. Some well-known brands manufacture them based on EPR (ethylene-propylene rubber).
The term "self-fusing" for these tapes means that with heat, they mold onto the material they are applied to, so after a while, the tape becomes one with the material and completely insulates the area where it was adhered.
Uses:
The most common uses are in high-voltage cable insulation, as they allow splicing or covering energized cables up to 68 kv.
Moisture sealing of electrical connections.
Sealing of high-voltage cable ends.
Another application is the use of the tape on electronic components; the electronic component is completely covered and can be submerged in water. The tape, when fused, completely protects the component from moisture.
How to apply:
The fusing tape must be applied in successive, overlapping layers with sufficient tension until the desired area is completely covered.
To eliminate gaps in critical areas, stretch the tape considerably. Stretch the tape in these critical areas just before its breaking point; this will not alter its physical or electrical properties; in less critical areas, elongate less.
Commonly, the tape is stretched to ¾ of its original width in these critical areas; always try to overlap to produce a uniform layer.
Application
