Exhaust Wrap

Brief History

The concept of header wraps has been around since the industrial revolution. For example, it was often used as an insulation material for steam pipes and hot water pipes in ships and buildings. In the 1930s / 1940s it was used for aircraft exhaust pipes and around that time it was also used on Hot Rods and by racers who wanted to be a step ahead of their opponents. Over time, the concept has been continuously improved and further developed, for example by using other materials.

What is Exhaust Wrap?

Exhaust wrap is a special coated fiberglass tape / tape that is resistant to extremely high temperatures. The header wrap is mainly used in the automotive world and in motorsport. Also, it is often used to prevent burns from touching the hot exhaust pipes.

Header Wrap reduces temperature under the hood, increases power and fuel efficiency by retaining heat in the headers / exhausts. This creates a better exhaust gas flow because the fiberglass band ensures that spent gases are removed more easily, allowing more air flow to the engine.

How do you apply Exhaust Wrap?

Wrapping an Exhaust Pipe takes time and concentration. Work slowly, take your time, and be patient. The tighter the exhaust tire, the better the grip and the less chance of a loose or irregular fit. When wrapping the exhaust wrap, it is recommended to wear safety glasses, gloves and a dust mask. Wearing a shirt with long sleeves is also recommended to prevent itching or irritation.

To make installation easier and reduce irritation from fiberglass dust, soak the header tape in a bucket of water. Wetting the band makes the material more flexible and aids in a much tighter wrap. Make sure you have enough wrap length before you start. The necessary materials to secure the exhaust wrap are stainless steel zip ties, iron wire or hose clamps.

Applying Exhaust Wrap: The Steps

Start with the first wrap around the primary tube at the exhaust port (closest to the engine) and secure with a stainless steel band, wire or hose clamp. Continue wrapping, using 1/4 "overlap with each wrap; keep tension on the outlet wrap and use your hands to tighten header tape every two to three wraps. Remember that more tape isn't always better when it comes to exhaust wrap, so when overlapping is 1/4 "perfect, this ensures that just enough heat is released for optimum performance without damaging the exhaust.

If the primary tubes are too close together or it is too tight to wrap them separately, wrap both tubes in one piece, keeping the same 1/4 "overlap. Continue to wrap the collector. the ends with stainless steel bands / stainless steel tight wraps or hose clamps. Please note that after applying the wrap the exhaust pipes may start to smoke and this will eventually stop. This is a normal part of the curing process and will not cause damage the exhaust or the intricate HeaderWrap, but make sure the motorcycle is outside or in a well-ventilated area.

Is an exhaust wrap dangerous and what should you watch out for?

If the wrap is not properly applied, it can come loose and get caught in the chain or rear wheel of the motorcycle. That is why you always have to make sure that the wrap remains well and tightly wrapped. Even if it does not begin to unravel, but is extremely loose, it will no longer be as effective as a thermal barrier.

Another factor that can negatively affect the header wrap is engine fluids and oils. Header wraps can last for years, but they are affected by friction or chemicals that can damage the wrap. These chemicals consist of typical oils and other liquids such as engine cleaners and degreasers.

In addition, we also regularly see that the color is slowly lost when the curves get too hot. In addition to the advice to adjust your motorcycle properly (perhaps too much air, because that leads to too much heat), you can also spray the wrapped curves black again with Motip or VHT spray paint, as long as it is heat-resistant paint!

What types of exhaust wraps do you have?

Header wraps come in a variety of materials, including woven ceramic, fiberglass with a special coat, and titanium. Fiberglass exhaust wrap is mainly made of Basalt or fiberglass material that has been treated with a special coating. This combination helps to increase the thermal resistance of the wraps. Fiberglass and ceramic header wrap are rated for up to 1200 degrees. Titanium wrap is good for up to 1800 degrees, but it is also more expensive and is not to be confused with Titanium colored exhaust wrap.

Not only do the header wraps come in different materials, but also different colors such as black, sand color, anthracite, titanium color, white and red.

Facts

1. Header wraps are designed to keep the heat in the header for an improved process of replacing the exhaust gases in a cylinder with a mixture of fresh air and fuel (or fresh air, in the case of direct injection engines).
2. By keeping the heat in the curve, the exhaust speed can also remain high, which ensures better performance.
3. It reduces the temperature in the engine compartment.
4. It offers a protected role for your legs against the often extremely hot exhaust bends.