What is F4 tape?
F4 tape is a high-performance self-fusion silicone tape for high-temperature, electrical insulating. But even in its early days, F4 tape has been used as a remarkable emergency repair product. It has been adapted by mechanics for all sorts of temporary / emergency repairs on all sorts of items.
Why is it called F4 tape?
F4 tape became the unofficial name given to this self-bonding silicone tape because it was originally created to repair cracks in the wiring of the legendary McDonnell F-4 Phantom II fighter-bomber. Servicemen of the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corp have used this tape since the Vietnam War era & they call it: F4 tape.
What is F4 tape used for?
While officially created as a high-temperature / high-performance electrical tape to repair cracks in wire insulation, F4 tape quickly became popular with technicians for repairs on hoses …wrap tool handles - protect wires where heat shrink tubing is difficult to use -protect objects from rusting - fix a leaky pipe or hose while the water is still running - seal a pipe with an uneven opening. …You just stretch it about a third of its width to start a chemical reaction that causes the tape to bond to itself— self-fusion silicone tape or F4 tape.
- Can functions as a UL Class "H" insulation material such as 3M's #70 (Hi-Line #PVT70T)
- Works in a temperature range of (continuous) -54°C to +260°C (-65°F to +500°F)
- Weatherproofing systems for inline connections, jumpers, antenna connections, surge and suppressors.
- High dielectric strength - 400 volts per mil
- Excellent ozone resistance
- Excellent arc resistance
- Excellent to resistance to moisture and oxygen, prevents corrosion
- Form fits around complex and irregular shapes
- Does not leave a sticky residue, there fore less labor needed to remove
- Dampens vibration and resists heat and mechanical shock.
- Meets or exceeds U.S. Military Spec AA-59163 (formerly MIL I-46852C)
While available in many colors, aviation repair crews will use what is called red (it looks orange to most) with a white stripe down the center (Hi-Line # AP6080361).
The stripe down the center is to help you be sure you are overlapping by at least half - the standard when applying an electrical insulating tape. This tape also is slightly thicker at the center, giving the tape a bit of a triangular profile. This shape also aids in assuring an adequate over wrap.