Flexwatt Question

[Kaorte]

So... I really don't get how putting the aluminum tape under the probe would really be any different that putting it on top.

Where did this "false reading" thing come from? Has anyone done an experiment with using different kinds of tape? I've been using aluminum tape to secure probes for 5 years and everything is stable.

Aluminum doesn't absorb heat THAT well. not enough to change the temp by 4 or 5 degrees... And it is soooo thin, wouldn't it just absorb heat from the heating element rather than the air from the room?

[kitedemon]

Aluminum is one of the best conductors of heat, out there every thermal heat sync found in computers are aluminum and copper. Copper and aluminum are the most common and some of the best (gold is good too) where you got aluminum is an insulator is beyond me.

"Do not cover the probe tip with aluminum tape. This will cause false readings and poor regulation." spyder robotics manuals.

I use the good conducting of the aluminum tape to make sure I do not p[lace the probe tip on a hot or cool spot. The exact place the probe reads from varies and if it is placed on a blank you will get wacky readings. The tape helps eliminate this.

Yes different tapes have been tested, and yes, if you use aluminum tape it will be effected by variable room temps. Unless your room temps are stable then it is calculated into the differential.

I have had flexwatt vary 5 degrees in 4 inches so yes having a more even spot to place the probe can and does make a difference.

[mattj8501]

Don't use foil tape on the probe it can have negative effects. (not account for the tape as much as the room) You might try a couple of things. First check all the flexwatt connections make sure they are all perfect. The second is to place a strip of foil tape down on the flexwatt where the probe will be. Then place the probe on top of it and use eletrical tape to secure it. This should help even the heat where the probe is rather than isolate it.

Could I get a picture of how yours is taped?

[kitedemon]

Yes I just mocked it up. I completely cover the probe in electrical tape so you would see just tape. This is my method I was finding the probe would be set a lot hotter than needed before (98) now I use 92 degree set point and get 89-90 hot spots.




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[mattj8501]

Awesome. Thank you very much. I'll try it and see how if it evens things out a bit.

[jben]

Yes I just mocked it up. I completely cover the probe in electrical tape so you would see just tape. This is my method I was finding the probe would be set a lot hotter than needed before (98) now I use 92 degree set point and get 89-90 hot spots.




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Learn something new everyday. Thank you.

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[kitedemon]

Incedently I also tape over the whole piece of aluminum tape with eletrical tape. I disenfect the rack every month and I have yet to figure out a way to do that with flexwat installed so I remove it monthy I am able to carefully check for wear and replace tape as needed. Racks are great space savers but the rest is a lot more work.

[Coopers Constrictors]

Ditch the flexwatt altogether and get the new THG heat tape. It is 10x better than flexwatt.

[kitedemon]

It runs hotter that is for sure i am not sure that is a good thing however. The little eyelet system is IMO sketchy I would use real rivets not Crafters eyelets. I don't believe I would say better just different. Personally I would rather buy in North America over Korea.


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[mattj8501]

I did what you showed me and temps now range from 89-91 with the thermostat set on 93. Thank you very much for the suggestion.