Double-sided tape is becoming a common tool in crafting, household and industrial setups. It has replaced bolts, screws and glues in many applications.
The right double-sided tape can hold a sign in a windy environment, seal cracks in pipes or stick a frame to the wall. But it can be frustrating if the tape doesn’t work properly.
1. Know the Type of Adhesive
Double sided tapes can help you secure objects on almost any surface, from smooth surfaces like walls to fabrics and carpets. They are super simple to use, just cut a piece in a desirable length, remove the paper liner and press onto your substrate.
However, these super-sticky tapes aren’t all created equal. The type of adhesive, carrier, and release liner can impact the performance characteristics of a tape. Choosing the right one for your application is key to successful bonding.
Before purchasing your next roll of tape, consider these factors to avoid wasting your money:
2. Know the Type of Substrate
Double-sided tape is a powerful adhesive that can be used for a number of industrial applications, including bonding substrates together, creating lightweight designs and providing spacers. It can also be used as an alternative to bulky fasteners and liquid adhesives, resulting in cleaner aesthetics with virtually imperceivable industrial strength bonds.
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To choose the best double-sided tape for your application, consider what materials you are using and the environmental conditions you will be working under. For instance, if the substrates will be exposed to solvents or heat cycling, then you will need a tape that is resistant to these chemicals.
Some types of substrates may be difficult to bond due to their low surface energy, which requires a special type of tape. This is where differentials come into play, a type of double-coated tape that is designed with different adhesives on each side to adhere to two substrates that have different surface energy. This can be used for dissimilar materials bonding and is especially helpful when adhering to low-surface-energy plastics.
3. Know the Type of Environment
If the tape will be exposed to extreme temperatures, it is best to find a heat-resistant double sided adhesive tape. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also cause a tape to lose its adhesive properties.
Thicker tapes are often needed for rough and uneven surfaces. These types of double sided tapes are able to withstand more load and friction while still offering effective adhesion.
In addition, some double-sided tapes feature a fabric carrier or foam layer which helps reduce vibrations and noise from moving machinery. This is especially important for applications that require a high level of precision.
Another thing to consider is how easy the tape will be to remove. Quality double sided tapes should leave no sticky residue when removed, so be sure to test this before buying. A tape with a silicone liner will make the process much easier. A heavier-duty tape will use a harder silicone, which is good for heavy duty applications.
4. Know the Type of Application
For many industrial and manufacturing applications, double sided adhesive tape is an essential tool. It’s great for bonding materials firmly and permanently to each other, or for attaching them temporarily while still allowing you to reposition the objects. But selecting the right double sided tape for your application isn’t always easy. There are many factors to consider, including the type of surface you need to bond to, the environment in which you work and any specifications or requirements that need to be met.
When it comes to choosing a quality double sided tape, it’s important to look at how well the tape sticks, and how flawlessly it peels off. Good double sided tapes won’t leave behind any nasty residue, and they can usually be removed without the need for a tool or heat source. They also stay strong and durable, even when exposed to harsh conditions. This is unlike other bonding technologies such as welding, screws and nails, which create single-joint stress points that are more susceptible to material damage and corrosion.
