Burtzy wrote:
Adding to the confusion that seems to be running rampant in this thread is the fact that cloth-backed duct tape is used for all sorts of things in the film industry and is called gaffer's tape. And for those of you who haven't heard the word gaffer before, it is the chief lighting tech on a film shoot. Interesting how the funny photo that started this thread turned into what it has.
I'm a huge fan of the REAL gaffer's tape. It has very specific properties that set it apart from regular Duck Brand Tapes and the knockoff brands labeled "Duct Tape."
Gaffer's tape is used to tape down cables on set. It removes easily from most surfaces, without leaving any residue or removing paint, and it holds a decent amount of weight. It is often used to tape mounting plates with 5/8" light studs to walls and ceilings, so accent lights can be placed exactly where a lighting designer wants them to be on location. Beyond that, it tears supremely easily, and it probably has all the uses Duck tapes do. It IS expensive, which is why it tends to have a limited market in the AV, video, filmmaking, radio, recording, TV, theatre, and sound reinforcement industries. A single 60-yard roll sells for around $24.00 to $28.00. Brands include Hosa and Apollo and Pro-GAFF.
REAL duct tape — the kind used by HVAC installers, is a very strong, long-lasting, heat-resistant, metallic version of the waterproof tape known as Duck Tape by its first manufacturer, and confusingly labeled Duct Tape by 3M and other manufacturers. It's expensive, but worth it for its intended use. Typical specs:
Printed Foil Tape, Tape Backing Material Aluminum, Tape Adhesive Acrylic, Tape Thickness 4.80 mil, Tape Width 2-1/2 In., Tape Length 60 yd., Tape Shape Continuous Roll, Tape Color Silver, Min. Tape Performance Temp. -20 Degrees F, Max. Tape Performance Temp. 325 Degrees F, Tape Tensile Strength 23 lb./in., Tape Adhesive Strength 68 oz./in., Series 324A, Standards UL 181A-P, UL 181B-FX
What is typically CALLED duct tape is the WRONG product to use on HVAC ducting. Neither the adhesive, nor the polyester backing can handle high heat from a forced air furnace without degrading rapidly.