Otis Singleton
Electric fence tape can break or need joining at intersections, and there are several ways to connect them. One way is to tie the ends of the tape together, leaving some excess tape on both sides. Then, melt the plastic fibres with a lighter to expose the metal wires, which can be twisted together to prevent sparking. Alternatively, you can use a keyring to knot the tape together, or use bolts, clamps, or crimps for a more secure, long-term connection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Connection method | Tie ends together, melt plastic fibres with a lighter, twist exposed metal wires, then fold over |
| Connection tools | Lighter, Side cutters/heavy scissors/knife, Keyring |
| Connection equipment | Electric fence connection bolt, joiner, or clamp |
| Connection equipment for temporary fencing | Bolts, clamps |
| Connection equipment for long-term fencing | Crimps |
| Maintenance | Replace sections every 2 years, clean with a sponge and water |
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What You'll Learn
Using a keyring to connect broken tape
Electric fence tape can be connected together using a keyring. This method is useful when the tape breaks and you need to reconnect it to maintain the circuit and power of the fence.
Firstly, open the tape out flat and knot it around a keyring. You can purchase keyrings in bulk online, and they come in a variety of materials, such as zinc or nickel-plated. It is important to note that this method may add visibility to the fence at night due to the shine of the keyring.
Then, take the other piece of tape and knot it to the same keyring. This will create a secure connection between the two pieces of tape. This method is especially useful if you are looking for a quick, temporary solution to repair a broken electric fence.
It is important to note that this method may not be as secure as using electric fence connection bolts, joiners, or clamps. These alternative methods are designed for electric fence break repairs and provide a cleaner and more secure join that reduces arcing and sparking. However, keyrings can be a cost-effective and efficient solution for temporarily connecting broken electric fence tape.
In addition to keyrings, there are other temporary solutions to connect electric fence tape. For instance, you can tie the two ends of the tape together securely, leaving about 4 centimetres of excess tape on both sides. Then, you can melt the plastic fibres with a lighter to expose the thin metal wires and twist them together to create a solid strand. This method can also help prevent arcing and sparking at the connection point.
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Burning away plastic yarn to expose wire
Electric fence tape can be joined by burning away the plastic yarn to expose the wire. This method can be used for quick, short-term connections. First, take both ends of the break in the electric fence tape and tie them together securely, leaving just over an inch or about 4 centimetres of excess tape on both sides. Then, using a lighter or small flame, melt the plastic fibres to expose the thin metal wires. Be careful not to overheat the wires, as they will melt if kept in the flame for too long. If you are unable to melt the plastic, you can separate the metal wires and plastic strands by hand, gently pulling them apart a little at a time. Once the wires are exposed, group them together and twist them tightly into one secure strand. This will prevent arcing and sparking, which can lead to power loss and reduce the effectiveness of the fence. Finally, fold the wire group over on itself to prevent any sharp ends from catching on anything.
Burning away the plastic yarn to expose the wire is a simple and effective method for joining electric fence tape. However, for a cleaner and more secure long-term solution, it is recommended to use electric fence connection bolts, joiners, crimps, or clamps designed for electric fence joins and break repairs. These options provide better surface contact and reduce arcing and sparking, increasing the power and effectiveness of the fence.
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Using wire connectors for thin, broken tape
If the electric fence tape is thin and broken, you can use small wire connectors to repair it. This method is ideal for ensuring the conductors touch the metal and maintaining an uninterrupted flow of electricity through the fence.
To begin, take both ends of the break and tie them together securely, leaving just over an inch (approximately 4 centimetres) of excess tape on both sides. Next, use a lighter or small flame to melt the polymer or plastic fibres and expose the thin metal wires within. Be careful not to overheat the wires, as they will melt if they become too hot. Alternatively, you can separate the metal wires and plastic strands by hand, gently pulling them apart a little at a time.
Once the wires are exposed, group them together and twist them tightly into a single, solid strand. This step is crucial for preventing arcing and sparking, which can lead to power loss and reduced effectiveness of the electric fence. After twisting the wires, you can use wire connectors to securely join the two ends of the tape.
For the best results, choose wire connectors specifically designed for electric fence repairs. These connectors are typically made of stainless steel, ensuring they do not rust and provide a long-lasting connection. They are also designed to facilitate the unimpeded flow of electricity through the fence. By using these connectors, you can be confident that your electric fence will function effectively, deterring intruders or containing livestock safely.
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Cleaning tape coated in algae or debris
If your electric fence tape is coated in algae or debris, it's important to clean it thoroughly to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some detailed steps to help you clean your electric fence tape:
- Prepare a cleaning solution: For a gentle approach, mix one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water in a spray bottle. Alternatively, if you're dealing with stubborn algae or debris, you can use a bleach solution. Mix one cup of bleach with a gallon of water, being cautious not to use bleach if your fence is not white, as it can destroy the colour.
- Apply the solution: Coat the affected areas of the fence tape generously with the chosen cleaning solution. Allow the vinegar solution to soak for at least 15 minutes. If using bleach, ensure the ground below is wet first and make sure there are no pets or children nearby.
- Scrub the tape: Using a microfiber towel or a soft-bristled brush, scrub at the stains, dirt, algae, or debris on the fence tape. For hard-to-reach areas, use a toothbrush to ensure a thorough cleaning.
- Rinse the tape: Once the tape is free of debris, rinse it thoroughly with water. Use a garden hose to spray down the fence, ensuring that no cleaning solution residue remains on the tape. If you used bleach, it's crucial to remove all traces to prevent cracking or discolouration.
- Dry the tape: After rinsing, allow the fence tape to air dry completely before reconnecting it or turning on the power.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your electric fence tape coated in algae or debris, ensuring its optimal performance and extending its lifespan.
To connect electric fence tape, follow these steps:
- Securely tie the ends: Take the ends of the tape and tie them together securely, leaving about 4 centimetres of excess tape on both sides.
- Expose the metal wires: Use a lighter or small flame to carefully melt the polymer/plastic fibres and expose the thin metal wires. Be cautious not to overheat the wires, as they can melt. Alternatively, separate the metal wires and plastic strands by hand, gently pulling them apart.
- Twist the metal wires: Gather all the exposed metal wires and twist them tightly into one secure strand. This will ensure a solid connection and prevent arcing and sparking.
- Fold the wire: Fold the twisted metal wire group over itself to prevent any sharp ends from catching on anything.
- Long-term solution: For a more permanent solution, use electric fence connection bolts, joiners, or clamps designed for electric fence joins. These will provide a cleaner and more secure connection, reducing arcing and sparking.
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Joining with bolts, clamps, or crimps
Connecting electric fence tape with bolts, clamps, or crimps is a straightforward process that ensures a secure and effective electric fence. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:
Joining with Bolts
Electric fence connection bolts are designed for securely joining poly tapes and wires. To use them, first, ensure that the wires or tapes to be joined are prepared appropriately. Clean any excess polymer fibres or sharp edges with side cutters, heavy scissors, or a knife. Then, carefully fold the metal wire group over on itself to prevent any sharp ends from causing potential issues. Once the wires or tapes are ready, you can use the connection bolts to create a secure join. Ensure that the bolts are specifically designed for electric fence connections, as these will have a larger surface area that ensures better contact and conduction.
Joining with Clamps
Line clamps, such as the Nemtek line clamps, are another effective way to join electric fence tapes. These clamps are designed to maintain a good electrical connection between the joints, ensuring the fence functions correctly. When using clamps, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation. Ensure the clamps are designed for electric fencing, as these will help prevent arcing and reduce voltage loss. Thunderbird Electric Fence offers heavy-duty claw-type wire joint clamps that are suitable for connecting fence wires and making general connections.
Joining with Crimps
Crimps are specifically designed to connect two pieces of tape or wire together. They feature two metal jaws that clamp onto the tape or wire and a screw that tightens the connection, creating a secure and conductive join. When using crimps, it is important to ensure that the positive and negative wires are matched correctly. Additionally, crimps are excellent for long-term connections as they provide great surface contact. For poly wire or poly tape, you can burn away the plastic yarn with a cigarette lighter to expose the stainless steel wire, then twist and join the wires before using the crimp.
Whether you choose to join your electric fence tape with bolts, clamps, or crimps, always ensure that the connectors are specifically designed for electric fencing. This will help maintain the effectiveness of your fence while also ensuring its longevity and performance.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to connect electric fence tape together. You can use a keyring, a wire connector, or a tape connector. Alternatively, you can tie the tape together, but this may result in sparks that can cause burns and power loss.
Open the tape out flat and knot it around a keyring. Do the same with the other piece of tape, knotting it to the other end of the keyring.
Expose the thin metal wires in the tape by melting the polymer/plastic fibres with a lighter or small flame. Group the metal strands together and twist them into one secure strand.
Tape connectors are available for purchase from fence makers. Simply follow the instructions that come with the connector.
Tying the tape together can create sparks, which can cause burns and power loss. Over time, the tape may also develop broken conductors, which can short and burn the plastic tape.
