Gary S. wrote:
On Sun, 04 Apr 2004 00:50:41 -0800, Roy Lewallen
wrote:


Bob gave a very good explanation. I'll add that the term "enameled" is a
carryover also. I doubt that real enamel is used any more, and that
"enameled" wire is actually coated with plastic these days. But we still
use the term to describe wire, usually solid, with a very thin, usually
transparent, coating. And because it's by far the most commonly used
wire type for winding coils, "enameled wire" and "magnet wire" are often
used interchangeably.


Actual enamel is more easily chipped off, and a blade will scrape it
away from where you wish to solder.

The newer plastic coating is nearly indestructible, resisting scraping
with a blade, soldering iron heat, and most solvents. There is a
special solvent (rather nasty one, IIRC) which softens it up enough to
remove. Otherwise, power tools, flamethrower, or something really
serious is needed to remove it.

The simplest way is to get the special solvent, but go generous on the
ventilation.

Happy trails,
Gary (net.yogi.bear)
------------------------------------------------
at the 51st percentile of ursine intelligence

Gary D. Schwartz, Needham, MA, USA
Please reply to: garyDOTschwartzATpoboxDOTcom
I have found that putting the wire in a flame and then sanding it works.
But, you are right it's very hard to get off. I wish I cound buy
enamelled wire some place

Bill, N5NOB