Pyrophoric30 Posted August 16 Posted August 16 Hello pyros, im currently using gummed paper tape to paste my shell but planning to make a shell pasting machine. My only problem is that theres no available 1/2 and 3/4 inch gummed tape here in my area therefore im planning to use masking tape. Is there significant differences with the two? Im assuming more wraps on masking tape due to less strength? Please enlighten me.
ThrownBiscuit Posted August 16 Posted August 16 I've found masking tape adhesive to be prone to turn loose as that is what it is designed to do. Gummed paper tape once it dries locks in place much more solidly and forms a hardened shell. If you are in the US here is a source for 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1.25", and 1.5". x 500 feet Kraft Non-Reinforced Gummed Paper Tape (pyrocreations.com)
Arthur Posted August 17 Posted August 17 Masking tape really is for short term use it's intended to be removed within hours of application, and the adhesive starts to degrade within a year. Can you re-roll some gummed paper tape and slit it with a small jig and a blade like a scalpel/Stanley/razor blade. I've seen many gummed paper wrapped shells that worked fine after 10 years in storage. Masking tape will fall off in that time.
Pyrophoric30 Posted August 17 Author Posted August 17 Ohhh, i just found out that my title was wrong. What i mean is gummed paper tape vs masking tape. So Ive seen a lot of inspiration in youtube for my planned automatic pasting machine. Most of the asian guys use masking tape to wrap their shells. Im only planning to make 2” and 3” shell. The smallest size for gummed tape i can get is an inch which is pretty big for a 3 inch i think. im not planning to store it for years and maybe wrap it only when theres occasion.
Arthur Posted August 17 Posted August 17 People can use their own wrapping material, but you have to have your own calculations for bare-hemis-diameter and finished shell diameter. Rules of thumb based on kraft paper may not work with masking tape, til you make your own rules of thumb.
DavidF Posted August 18 Posted August 18 Masking tape is weak. If I use tape, I use strapping tape (filament tape). It's way stronger. I've made a few 6" cylinder shells with alternating layers of vinyl electrical tape and strapping tape. Gummed paper tape is still much better than any other tape I've used.
cmjlab Posted August 19 Posted August 19 I don't make many ball shells, but the ones I have made, I used fiberglass strand reinforced gummed tape. That stuff seems to be unbreakable, and is damn near impossible to remove once wet/applied/dried. I did "reappropriate" some older rolls from work that had the outer layers stuck together and weren't wanted. So I've no idea what they cost to purchase.
cmjlab Posted August 19 Posted August 19 I glossed over the OP - when I first started I also tried masking tape. BLUF - it will work..... just not as good. It worked okay within a few months, but the break was nowhere near as good as properly pasted or taped shells turn out. Plus it takes MANY additional layers to build up to the same level as pasted paper or gummed tape....at least in my limited experience with masking tape.
Mumbles Posted August 19 Posted August 19 If you have access to a band saw, or want to make a slitter, the 3" gummed tape can cut to size fairly easily. I'd suggest this over using masking tape. It will make much more solid shells and probably give you better performance. Don't feel like you have to resort to subpar measures like using masking tape just because others in your area do it. Raise the level of expectation.
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