Finding the Best Tape for Your Application

1. What surface does the tape need to stick to?

High Surface Energy (HSE) or Low Surface Energy matters (LSE). A general rule of thumb is Textured Surfaces would require HSE adhesive, Smooth Surfaces would require LSE adhesive.

2. Is the initial stick of your tape important?

Wet Out, often referred to as Quick Stick, is described as a measure of how quickly an adhesive bond is formed when two surfaces are brought together with light pressure. Quick Stick is important in manufacturing, construction and splicing applications when the speed to form an immediate adhesive bond is important.

3. Is shear strength needed from your tape?

Good shear properties are especially important for applications like splicing or hanging items on a wall where the tape is used for holding two substrates together, with force being applied in opposite directions.

4. Does your tape need to have high or low temp resistance?

Recommended application temperatures for Rubber, Acrylic and Silicone adhesive is 60F-95F at 50% humidity. Operating temperatures span based on adhesive type and formulation. Rubber adhesives range 50F up to 150°F. Acrylic adhesives are effective at temperatures –40F up to 400°F, and Silicone adhesives 120F up to 500°F. You can choose the best tape for your temperature requirements.

5. Will the tape be used in a temporary or permanent application?

In temporary applications, instant adhesion is often important but removal without residue can be just as important. In permanent applications, what is most important is the durability of the bond.

6. Does the tape come into either indirect or direct food contact?

Hot melt rubber and Water based acrylics are the preferred adhesive systems for direct & indirect food contact applications. Water based adhesive tapes tend to be the most economical.

7. Will the tape be used outdoors? If so, for how long?

Both UV & Weathering will affect adhesives differently. Acrylic adhesive tapes are best for use in outdoor applications that require UV resistance. They won’t become brittle or dry out with outdoor exposure.

8. How long will the tape need to adhere to the surface?

To determine the best tape for the longevity of your application, start by defining your substrates and what type of environment they will have to endure. This will allow you to choose the best product for your desired timeframe.

9. Will storage and transportation be involved in your application?

Your crew may withstand extreme climates better than your materials! Consider their transport to the job site as well as the material’s subsequent storage so it doesn’t compromise effectiveness. Keep tapes stored at ambient temps 68 – 72° F / 20 – 22° C and 50-70% relative humidity.

10. Is there a size requirement or other special requirements for your tape?

Elite Tape can help design a solution that meets your specific application needs. Custom slitting, rewind slitting, die-cutting, printing, laminating, spooling, perforating/serrating are all tape solutions Elite Tape provides.