Soldering Flexwatt questions (?)

These are probably obvious or "duh" questions but I want to make sure . . .

When soldering wire to Flexwatt:

Is there a certain solder to use?

Will the heat from the solder melt the cover of the Flexwatt so that the wire is connected or do I need to prep the Flexwatt?

I have 4" Flexwatt in 12" lengths and want to wire in parallel. What gauge wire should I use?

I plan on covering everything up with electrical tape after I'm done

Thanks for any help

Jim

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JimNAZ

These are probably obvious or "duh" questions but I want to make sure . . .

When soldering wire to Flexwatt:

Is there a certain solder to use?

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Resin core. Don't use acid core.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JimNAZ

Will the heat from the solder melt the cover of the Flexwatt so that the wire is connected or do I need to prep the Flexwatt?

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No, you'll need to scrape the plastic away to expose the bare metal.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JimNAZ

I have 4" Flexwatt in 12" lengths and want to wire in parallel. What gauge wire should I use?

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I use lamp cord, actually cheap extension cords. If you shop around you can get them cheaper than bulk wire. Plus, they already have the male plugs on the end. Just cut off the female ends. I think its 16 gauge.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by JimNAZ

I plan on covering everything up with electrical tape after I'm done

Thanks for any help

Jim

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Rather than electrical tape, I use the rubber tool handle dip to insulate the connections. I feel it provides a better seal against moisture.

Hope this helps!
Steve

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hoo-t

Rather than electrical tape, I use the rubber tool handle dip to insulate the connections. I feel it provides a better seal against moisture.

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For even better moisture protection, use silicone to seal the connections. :gj:

Thank you both the the tips. Thats what I needed to know . . .


Jim

heres a video for anyone wanting hands on look.

part one
YouTube - Wiring Flexwatt (Part 1)
part 2
YouTube - Wiring Flexwatt (Part 2)

Thanks for the vid! I always appreciate those who take the time to make a video of something, no matter how simple it may seem to some . . .

* I would never have thought to prime the ends with solder before starting. Good tip! Shows you how much soldering I do . . .

Jim