On Wed, Mar 8, 2023 at 2:16 PM Chuck Guzis via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
> On 3/8/23 13:53, Sellam Abraham via cctalk wrote: > > On Wed, Mar 8, 2023 at 1:39 PM Chuck Guzis via cctalk < > cctalk@classiccmp.org> > > wrote: > > > >> On the subject of 1/2" open-reel tape, I note that the tapes initially > >> used with the IBM 726 drive (1952) used a cellulose acetate base. In > >> 1956, a switch was made to Mylar. That's unfortunate, since early > >> existing 726 tapes have almost certainly rotted away due to vinegar > >> syndrome. > >> > > > > I have what appears to be a stainless steel UNIVAC tape. It isn't > > crumbling away into dust anytime soon. > > > Heavy bugger,no? > Nickel-plated Vicalloy (a type of phosphor-bronze). > 1.76 pounds on the (aluminum?) reel. That doesn't seem like much, but it's on a 6" reel, and it definitely feels dense when held. Phosphor-bronze makes more sense. Thanks for the clarification. Sellam
