Adhesive Tapes | Types, Benefits, and Industrial Applications
If you run an automotive, aerospace, or industrial business, you are no stranger to the power of adhesive tape. Various adhesive tapes offer distinct benefits and purposes, so you need the right adhesive tape to do each job properly. Keep reading to learn everything about adhesive tapes, applications and tape adhesion strength.
What Is Adhesive Tape
In basic terms, adhesive tape is a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) applied to a backing material such as paper, film, or foil.
The tape features a rear carrier usually made of cloth, paper, or film. The adhesive is then laminated to the backing to create the adhesive tape.
The two main types of adhesive used in industrial tapes include water-based and solvent-based. Water-based adhesives come from acrylics, natural rubber, or other synthetic materials. In contrast, solvent-based adhesives come from rubber, vinyl, or other synthetic materials that dissolve in solvents such as alcohols, ketones, and esters.
Types of Adhesive Tape
There are various types of adhesive tape, each with unique benefits and applications.
Single-Coated Adhesive Tape
As the name suggests, the single-coated adhesive tape features a backing with adhesive on one side. This type of adhesive tape is ideal for general-purpose applications such as packaging, holding, and bundling. Single-coated adhesive tapes may feature various materials, including paper, cloth, film, and adhesive foil tape.
Double-Coated Adhesive Tape
The double-coated adhesive tape features an adhesive on both sides of the backing. This feature is perfect for applications where adhesive applies to both surfaces, for example in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Transfer Adhesive Tape
Transfer adhesive tape is a double-coated tape with a release liner on one side. The release liner gets removed before the adhesive tape is applied, making it ideal for applications where only one adhesive surface is needed. Transfer adhesive tapes are often used in the electronics industry.
What Is Adhesive Tape Used For?
Adhesive tape has various uses, both in the home and in businesses. This guide focuses on the industrial applications of adhesive tapes.
Construction Industry
Adhesive tape plays a vital role in the construction industry, from masking off areas during painting and decorating to holding pipes and cables in place. In addition, adhesive tapes seal joints and seams and protect surfaces from moisture and dirt.
Adhesive tapes are a critical component during building, bonding, and designing. For example, adhesive tapes attach metal panels and other materials without welding or riveting. As a result, it creates a stronger, more durable bond.
Packaging Industry
The packaging industry uses adhesive tape for various applications, from sealing boxes and packages to labeling products. Adhesive tapes also secure straps and handles and provide reinforcement.
Adhesive film tape plays a crucial role in the packaging industry by providing a physical barrier between the contents of a package and the environment. As a result, they protect products from damage during transit.
Automotive Sector
Adhesive tape is handy in the automotive sector, from holding parts together during assembly to protecting surfaces during painting and coating. In addition, adhesive tapes come in handy during hole drilling, grasping screws, and other small parts.
Adhesive tapes also help during the painting and coating processes by providing a physical barrier between the substrate and the environment. As a result, it prevents contamination and ensures a consistent finish.
Electronics Industry
Adhesive tape is necessary in various electronics industry applications, from holding parts together during assembly to protecting surfaces from moisture and dirt. In addition, adhesive tapes protect surfaces from contamination.
Adhesive tapes play a crucial role in the electronics industry by providing a physical barrier between electronic components and the environment. As a result, they prevent damage and ensure a consistent finish.
Household Appliances
The home goods industry relies heavily on adhesive tape to hold parts together during assembly. For example, traditional adhesive tapes help integrate the inner tub with the adhesive in washing machines. This step ensures a watertight seal and prevents leaks.
Waterproof adhesive tape is excellent for manufacturing other household appliances such as dishwashers, dryers, and refrigerators. Adhesive tapes have an acrylic adhesive density that helps hold parts together during assembly and prevent leaks.
What Are the Benefits of Adhesive Tape?
Adhesive tape offers several benefits, from its versatility to ease of use. In addition, adhesive tape is a cost-effective solution for various applications and different surfaces.
Adhesive tape is also a convenient way to temporarily hold parts together during assembly or repair. Adhesive tape can be easily removed when no longer needed and leaves no residue. Other pros of adhesive tapes are:
- They seal out moisture.
- Tapes withstand extreme temperatures.
- Eliminates the need for surface refinishing.
- There is no need for visible fasteners.
- Tapes can replace bolts and rivets.
- Tape is aesthetically pleasing.
- Tape is extremely lightweight.
What Tape Is the Strongest?
There are various adhesive tapes on the market, each with unique properties. The strength of an adhesive tape depends on its adhesive properties, the type of backing material, and the thickness of the adhesive layer.
The strongest adhesive tapes are industrial adhesives. Industrial adhesive and extreme force adhesive tape typically have high adhesion and strong backing material. As a result, industrial tapes and adhesives come in handy in heavy-duty applications, such as industrial and construction applications.
What Does Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Mean?
Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) is a type of adhesive that becomes activated upon the application of pressure. This type of adhesive is highly effective in tape, because it allows the adhesive to bond to various surfaces.
PSA tapes are available in various strengths, from low-tack to high-tack. Low-tack adhesive tapes are typically used for temporary applications, while high-tack adhesive tapes are for permanent bonding.
Final Thoughts
Adhesive tapes serve multiple purposes across industries, from holding parts together during assembly to protecting surfaces from moisture and dirt. In addition, many adhesive tape types are available in various strengths and configurations, making them suitable for multiple applications.
When selecting an adhesive tape, it is vital to consider the desired outcome and the type of surface that will be adhered to. There are various adhesive tapes on the market, each with unique properties. The strength of an adhesive tape depends on its adhesive properties, the type of backing material, and the thickness of the adhesive layer.
With numerous options in the market, you may have difficulty selecting the best adhesive tape manufacturer. That’s why we encourage you to connect with the experts at Lamart. Check out our products for various tapes, or contact us for guidance.
