Hinge Tapes

It is becoming increasing popular to use tapes to form hinges. Consider the strength needed by a hinge that is the length of an aileron, compared to individual plastic hinges. Also consider the ease of construction. If the leading-edge is formed with a single cut from top to bottom surface, the top surfaces of both the wing and aileron meet, and is perfect for a hinge.

Qualities of a Goood Hinge Tape

Here's is Dick Williamson's had to say:

A good hinge tape is flexible, UV and heat resistant, doesn't get brittle with age, and has a long-lasting adhesive. The high-quality book tapes made by 3M are often recommended because they need to meet essentially the same requirements as those demanded by glider guiders. Also, some have used a drafting tape that has excellent qualities because drafting prints are often subjected to heat and UV during reproduction. Packing and mailing tapes generally don't have the longevity of the more specialized tapes.

Among the tapes recommended on RC Soring Exchange (RCSE) are:

Scotch No. 845 Book Tape (most often recommended)
3M Scotch Brand 853
Scotch® Conservation & Preservation Tape 888
3M 396
3M 700P
3M Blenderm surgical tape
3M Mailing Tape #3501
3M clear Decorate and Repair Tape, #23-8085

Scotch 845 Book Tape, and 3M Blenderm surgical tape appear to be very popular. Recent postings on RCSE suggest the book tape can be obtains at Office Max. I've tried a local medical supply store and was told it is difficult to get Scotch products.

See 3M's product search page .