Elite #Gum Tape is a three-way fiberglass reinforced natural kraft carton sealing tape manufactured with water-activated adhesive.

Gum Packaging Tape (5.5 Mil. Brown)

ELITE TAPE IS YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR PACKAGING TAPES

• Carton sealing boxes and packages light duty to heavy duty
• Label protection and lamination with our Elite Tape Crystal Clear #226ESC
• Color coding and identification applications with our Elite Tape #220C
• Strapping and bundling with our Elite Tape #199
• Produce bag sealing tape with our Elite Tape UPVC #222C and #224C
• Printer’s Roll with our Elite Tape UPVC #222C and #224C
• Splicing, sealing, bundling, wrapping and packaging

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WATER ACTIVATED SEALING TAPES

What is Gum Tape or Water Activated Tape?

Gum or Water-Activated Tape is a type of packaging tape that requires water to activate its adhesive properties. Unlike pressure-sensitive tapes, which are sticky and adhere on contact, water-activated tape needs to be moistened before application. Gum Tape has a carrier made of Kraft Paper with Reinforced Fibers and Water Activated Adhesive.

Here’s how it typically works:

Adhesive Activation: The tape has a dry adhesive on one side, usually made from starch or other water-soluble materials. This adhesive is not sticky until it comes into contact with water.

Moistening: To activate the adhesive, the tape is moistened with water. This can be done using a sponge, a dispenser that wets the tape as it is dispensed.

Application: Once moistened, the tape is applied to the surface. The adhesive bonds effectively with the material, creating a strong seal.

Gum or water-activated tape is commonly used in packaging and carton sealing applications. It provides a secure and tamper-evident seal, making it a popular choice for shipping and transporting goods. Additionally, this type of tape is known for its environmentally friendly nature, as the adhesive is often made from renewable resources.

This type of tape is also referred to as “gummed tape” because the adhesive was traditionally made from gum arabic. However, modern water-activated tapes may use synthetic adhesives that achieve similar results.

Is Gum Tape strong?

Yes, Gum Tape or Water Activated Tape is known for its strength and durability. Gum Tape has a carrier made of Kraft Paper with Reinforced Fibers.  When properly applied and activated with water, the adhesive on the tape forms a strong bond with the surface, creating a secure seal.

The strength of gum tape is influenced by several factors:

• Adhesive Quality: The adhesive used in gum tape is designed to create a strong bond when activated by water. The quality of the adhesive can vary, and higher-quality tapes often provide better adhesion and strength.
• Fiber Reinforcement: Some gum tapes are reinforced with fiberglass or other fibers to enhance their strength. These reinforcements contribute to the tape’s ability to resist tearing and provide additional durability.
• Proper Activation: The tape must be properly activated with the right amount of water for optimal bonding. If the tape is not adequately moistened, the adhesive may not activate fully, leading to a weaker bond.
• Application Surface: The type of surface to which the tape is applied can also impact its strength. Gum tape tends to adhere well to corrugated cardboard and other porous surfaces commonly used in packaging.

Overall, Gum Tape is considered a strong and reliable sealing option, and its use is widespread in various industries where secure packaging is crucial.

What is Gum sealing tape used for?

Gum Tape, also known as gummed tape, is used for sealing and securing packages. It is commonly employed in various industries and applications where a strong, secure, and tamper-evident seal is required.

• Packaging and Carton Sealing: Gum tape is extensively used for sealing cardboard boxes and cartons. It provides a reliable and robust seal, ensuring that the contents of the package are protected during transit and handling. The strong bond created by the activated adhesive helps prevent the box from accidentally opening.
• Shipping and Logistics: In the shipping and logistics industry, where packages undergo various handling and transportation stages, gum tape is favored for its durability. It helps secure packages during shipping and provides a clear indication if a package has been tampered with, thanks to its tamper-evident properties.
• E-commerce and Fulfillment Centers: With the rise of e-commerce, gum tape has become a popular choice for sealing packages in fulfillment centers. It enhances the efficiency of the packaging process and ensures that products reach customers in good condition.
• Secure and Tamper-Evident Seals: The water activated adhesive in gum tape forms a strong bond with the surface, making it difficult to tamper with without leaving visible signs of disruption. This makes gum tape a preferred choice for applications where security and integrity of the contents are crucial.
• Environmentally Friendly Packaging: Gum Tape is often considered environmentally friendly because it is made from renewable resources, and the water-activated adhesive is water-soluble. This makes it a sustainable option for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact.
• Custom Printing: Some gum tapes can be customized with company logos, messages, or branding. This allows businesses to use the tape not only for sealing purposes but also as a branding tool, helping to enhance the professional appearance of their packages.

What’s the difference between Gum Tape and plastic film carton sealing tape?

Gum Tape (water-activated tape or gummed tape) and plastic film sealing tape (typically referred to as pressure-sensitive tape, often made of plastic materials like polypropylene or PVC) serve similar purposes—sealing and securing packages—but they differ in their composition, application method, and characteristics.

Adhesive Activation

Gum Tape: Requires water activation to make the adhesive sticky. The tape is applied after moistening it with water, which activates the adhesive properties.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: Has pressure-sensitive adhesive that is inherently sticky. It adheres to surfaces upon contact without the need for additional activation.

Adhesive Composition

Gum Tape: The adhesive in gum tape is often derived from natural materials like starch or is a water-soluble synthetic adhesive.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: The adhesive in plastic tape is typically a pressure-sensitive adhesive, which may be made from various synthetic materials like polypropylene, PVC, or acrylic.

Strength and Durability

Gum Tape: Gum Tape has a carrier made of Kraft Paper with Reinforced Fibers and water-activated adhesive. Known for its strength and durability, especially when properly activated. It forms a strong bond with the surface, providing a secure seal.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: Can also offer strength and durability, but the specific characteristics depend on the type of plastic tape used. Some may be more suitable for light-duty applications, while others are designed for heavy-duty sealing.

Tamper-Evident Properties

Gum Tape: Often provides tamper-evident features because attempting to open the package usually leaves visible signs of disruption on the tape.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: While some plastic tapes may have tamper-evident features, they are generally not as pronounced as those of gum tape.

Environmental Considerations

Gum Tape: Tends to be more environmentally friendly as it is often made from renewable resources, and the adhesive is water-soluble.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: Depending on the material used, plastic tape may have environmental considerations, and some variants may be recyclable.

Application Method

Gum Tape: Requires a water source for activation, which is typically done using a sponge or a dispenser with a water brush.

Plastic Film Sealing Tape: Applies directly to surfaces without the need for additional steps. It is convenient and easy to use.

Both types of tape have their advantages, and the choice between Gum Tape and plastic film sealing tape often depends on factors such as the specific application, desired level of security, environmental considerations, and ease of use.