Gaskets create a secure seal between two surfaces. You might be familiar with rubber or foam gaskets, but gasket tape is another option for industrial applications. While standard gaskets are flat and cut to a specific shape, this tape comes on a roll and can be applied in nearly any shape.
Also known as sealant tape or joint seal tape, gasket tape is ideal for parts with unusual flange shapes. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of gasket seal tape so you can choose the best material for any industrial application.
At American Flexible Products, we carry a wide selection of sealant tapes, and our converting services allow us to create adhesives that meet your exact specifications. Contact our engineers to learn more or get a quote.
What is Gasket Tape and Why is it Essential?
Gasket tape is a flexible sealing material used for industrial applications requiring airtight, watertight, and temperature-resistant solutions. It is ideal for:
- Preventing air and fluid leaks between components.
- Reducing vibrations and noise caused by equipment or environmental factors.
- Withstanding extremely high and low temperatures and other demanding environmental conditions.
While traditional gaskets can serve the same purpose, tape is a more flexible solution. You can apply it to joints, corners, and irregular surfaces to create a seal where traditional seals might not work.
Types of Sealant Tape and Their Applications
Sealant tape is available in a variety of materials that suit specific applications. Common materials include rubber, foam, and ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM).
Rubber Gasket Tape – Versatile and Durable for Industrial Sealing
Rubber tape is commonly made from ethylene propylene or silicone rubber. This tape is designed to stretch, allowing you to create airtight seals. For this reason, it’s often used for HVAC duct sealing and insulation.
Rubber tape is ideal for outdoor use, where it may be exposed to harsh weather, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial machinery and heavy-duty equipment.
The benefits of rubber gasket tape include:
- Excellent resistance to weather, UV exposure, and chemicals.
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
- Provides a strong seal in industrial and automotive applications.
Foam Gasket Tape – Ideal for Cushioning and Vibration Dampening
Foam tape is essentially a strip of foam with a pressure-sensitive adhesive that allows it to adhere to a wide range of surfaces, including metal, plastic, glass, and even wood.
This type of gasket tape is ideal for soundproofing in various applications, from HVAC systems to the automotive industry. It’s available in both closed-cell and open-cell structures, making it highly versatile. Open-cell foam tape is suitable for filtration and cushioning, while closed-cell foam is ideal for creating a moisture-proof and water-resistant barrier.
Foam gasket tape is best for:
- Soundproofing in HVAC and automotive applications.
- Sealing gaps in industrial enclosures.
- Cushioning between panels in electronic devices.
EPDM Gasket Tape – High-Performance Weatherproof Sealing
EPDM material has exceptional resistance to ozone, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. For this reason, it’s common to find commercial buildings with an EPCM roof. In these roofing systems, EPDM gasket tape creates a waterproof seal between joints. No matter the application, its long lifespan makes it a cost-effective sealing solution.
In addition to roofing, EPDM gaskets are suitable for:
- Window sealing in construction.
- Industrial and automotive sealing applications.
- Outdoor electrical enclosures and HVAC systems.
Comparing Different Gasket Tape Materials
With numerous options available, it can be challenging to determine which material is best suited for your application. Compare the benefits of rubber, foam, EPDM, and silicone gasket tape in the table below:
| Material | Durability | Temperature Range | Best Uses |
| Rubber Gasket Tape | High | -40°F to 250°F (-40°C to 121°C) | HVAC, industrial machinery, and outdoor sealing |
| Foam Gasket Tape | Medium | -40°F to 200°F (-40°C to 93°C) | Cushioning, soundproofing, and enclosure sealing |
| EPDM Gasket Tape | Very High | -40°F to 200°F (-40°C to 93°C) | Roofing, automotive, and industrial weatherproofing |
| Silicone Gasket Tape | High | -75°F to 500°F (-60°C to 260°C) | Electrical, automotive, marine, HVAC, and aerospace |
Why Choose Custom Gasket Tape from American Flexible Products?
At AFP, we carry a huge selection of adhesives from the top manufacturers. We specialize in custom converting, so you never have to settle for an off-the-shelf solution.
Benefits of partnering with American Flexible Products include:
- Custom Fabrication Options: We provide die-cut, slit-to-width, and precision-cut gasket tapes tailored to industry-specific applications.
- Industry-Leading Materials: As a 3M™ Preferred Converter and Rogers Preferred Converter, we source only the highest-quality materials.
- Expert Guidance on Selection: We’re here to assist in choosing the right material based on temperature, environment, and durability needs.
- Fast Turnaround and Bulk Ordering: High-quality production with quick delivery for industrial applications.
Selecting the Right Gasket Tape for Your Needs
Choosing the right gasket tape depends on material strength, temperature resistance, and environmental exposure. Rubber, foam, and EPDM gasket tapes each offer unique advantages for industrial sealing and cushioning applications. With our expert knowledge of EPDM, neoprene, and silicone gasket tapes, we’re here to help you choose the best gasketing material.
Contact us today for more information or to get a custom quote. As a 100% employee-owned company, you’ll speak with an owner every time you reach out.
