Aluminum heat tape
 

Hi, i'm working on a Falcon 120. I'm going to put some aluminum heat tape on the horizonal stab. How high of the temperature range do I need to go? At my local hardware store they range from 150* - 350*. Is 350 good enough ? Or do I need to go higher? Thanks for your input. Mike

I use the standard aluminum tape at HD or lowes. The higher the temp rating the better. Only thing this will do is protect the shrink coat if you have a hot start. If fire is prolonged it will get the tail no matter what the heat rating. The only thing to watch out for is the xtra weight. Some of the higher rated tape is real heavy and adds tail weight.

Paul S

Thanks Paul, I've noticed 350* is a lot thicker and heavier. So is 250* good enough then? Thanks Mike

The light tape should be fine. You are trying to protect the heat shrink covering from a start up flash. Anything prolonged will take out the tail regardless of any covering protection.

Paul S

Yes i'm trying to protect my model from the heat of running and start up. Thanks for your advice. Mike