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| During the 80's both Ampex and 3M produced a back
coated recording tape that has proved to have a problem over time.
The back coating absorbs moisture and the back coating becomes
gooey and stickey creating a squeal as the tape is played. Eventually it can become
sticky enough that the tape will cease to move through the recorder.
The problem can be fixed, at least short term, by drying the tape or tape baking. There are a number of methods that have been used. The main points are a slow gradual drying at a temperature of 110 to 120 degrees, usually for a period of 8 to 10 hours. After baking the tape should be allowed to completely cool. The tape should then be copied onto new tape, as the dry condition is not all ways permanent. The usual method of "baking" is a conVECtion oven. This device has an internal fan that keeps the air circulating, and contains a thermostat that will adjust to the low temperature requirements. Other devices have been reported such as just leaving the oven light on in a regular oven (do not use the heating element) to building a box with a light bulb in it. I personally have baked many tapes in the convection oven at 115 degrees. Most are fine after an 8 hour bake. A few have required a second baking. When baking more than one reel, the reels should be seperated so the air can flow around. At these low temperature, plastic reels are not in danger. When the bake is complete, the tape may be very loosly packed on the reel and should carefully be wound to restore proper tension. Here are links to other sources of information:
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