40 gauge tips

[Ecnalskoorb]

Hey guys! Finally became a member and I have some questions. I just bought a lot of 40 gauge kanthal a1 to Clapton around 24 gauge nichrome 80, but I'm running into an issue with the 40g. I can't get the wire to stay pressed together to give it that "solid wire" look. Does anyone have a way to address this? Thanks in advance.

 

[93gc40]

More tension on the 40 when wrapping. Maybe straighten and anneal the wire prior to wrapping.

 

[KentA]

More tension on the 40 when wrapping. Maybe straighten and anneal the wire prior to wrapping.

With a pair of pliers at each end of the wire, stretch it with a snap to straighten it.

 

[Mrez]

Hey guys! Finally became a member and I have some questions. I just bought a lot of 40 gauge kanthal a1 to Clapton around 24 gauge nichrome 80, but I'm running into an issue with the 40g. I can't get the wire to stay pressed together to give it that "solid wire" look. Does anyone have a way to address this? Thanks in advance.

It's pretty springy stuff, double or triple wrap at the starting point and again when you finish up. If you are doing it free hand, keep tension on the 40 guage while supporting the 24 gauge with a finger from the same hand to prevent it from whipping around, and use shorter lengths until you get a feel for it. I'd also look into the fishing jig method. Once you get the hang of it, wrapping claptons is a breeze.

 

[SLIPPY_EEL]

maybe try some n80 next time!? but twisting it with your main wire before securing in the drill or drill clamp before starting will help stop it moving and help get it tighter, also clapton the whole length of wire until the thinner clap wire twists off on its own at the end will help secure it at the other end

 

[novaracer69]

Over lap at the beginning and the end