Double Coated Tapes

An Overview: Double Coated Tapes

Double coated tapes are pressure sensitive adhesives that are generally fabricated in several types of materials, including paper, foam and cloth. They are utilized for bonding and sealing a variety of similar and disparate materials and substrates. These adhesive products are also used for sound dampening purposes. They are manufactured in a range of tensile strengths, and may be applied to low and high surface energy materials. Variants of these tapes are effective for their UV and age resistance. Additionally, manufacturers provide the option of die-cutting depending on the application requirement.

Standard Applications and Industries:

Industries that utilize double coated tapes include the medical, appliance, automotive, and electronic sectors and standard applications include:

Mounting substrates (e.g., plates, hooks and mouldings) Sound dampening Bonding (e.g., display, frames and signs) Splicing (e.g., fabric webs, paper, films, etc.) Insulation against light, dust and noise

Tape Types and Compositions

Double coated tapes feature an adhesive coating comprised of a rubber or synthetic rubber adhesive. These tapes are compatible with a range of surface materials including papers, fabrics and films. Various double coated tape products are designed for high shear and high temperature performance. Double-coated tape materials fall into the following subcategories:

Foam Tapes: These tapes are composed of open or closed cells and are typically coated with an acrylic adhesive on both sides. Common variations of this type of tape include polyethylene, urethane and vinyl materials. Foam tapes are suitable for mounting purposes and gasket applications and for sound dampening purposes. These tapes are resistant to a wide range of temperature applications.

Cotton (Cloth) Tapes: Generally, cloth tapes feature a flexibleback, and often the adhesive commonly will have a heavy coating, which is ideal for irregular and dissimilar surface applications. Standard uses for this type of tape include mounting for printing industry applications and sealing, such as carpet installation. These tapes are efficient for their easy unwind capability.

Paper Tapes: Typically hand tearable, these tapes arecoated on both sides with a rubber adhesive and are often used for general purpose bonding applications and where temporary holds are required. These tapes are also efficient for bonding irregular surfaces. Tape liners are available in different colors. Variations of this type of tape may be resistant to certain chemicals. Additionally, paper tapes may be applied manually or with an applicator. Other types of paper tapes include crepe tapes and flat back tapes.

Additional Considerations

Prior to application, it is essential to check the substrate surface area to ensure that the space is oil-free and clear of contaminants that might affect the adhesive. Manufacturers advise checking the temperature application range, as colder temperatures may not be suitable for optimal adhesive strength. Application tools are available, although various adhesives may be applied manually.