Choosing the best adhesive tape can be a challenge with the wide range of materials and performance requirements to consider. Factors such as thickness, adhesive type, temperature resistance, and adhesive strength all need to align with your application.
Before selecting a double-sided adhesive tape, it helps to understand some of the main types available—transfer, double-coat, and foam core—and how they’re used. In this article, we’ll explore the properties of each adhesive so you can find the best tape for any application.
Even with the vast array of adhesives available, you can’t always find an off-the-shelf solution that perfectly fits your needs. American Flexible Products is your partner for custom converting adhesives to fit your exact needs. Contact us to learn more about custom-fabricated adhesives that take all the guesswork out of finding the right product.
Types of Tape for Mounting and Bonding
Transfer, double-coat, and very high bond (VHB) tapes serve a similar function in joining two materials together with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. However, their performance and physical properties vary significantly.
- Transfer tape is an ultra-thin layer of adhesive with no carrier or core material. It is applied to a release liner that aids in application. Once applied, it creates a direct adhesive bond between surfaces. With its lightweight structure, it is best for graphics, labels, and splicing where minimal thickness is required.
- Double-coated tape has a thin film carrier coated with adhesive on both sides. With its thin structure, double-coated tape provides strength and stability while still being flexible. Double-coated bonding tape provides moderate load-bearing capacity and is suitable for mounting as well as bonding.
- Foam core VHB tape is made from a thick foam carrier and is excellent for filling gaps and bonding heavy loads. With its superior strength and adhesion, VHB tape is often used for structural bonding in automotive, architectural, or industrial applications.
While the terms bonding and mounting are often used interchangeably, these tapes serve different purposes and have different tolerances.
Bonding Tape Selection Criteria: What to Consider
Now that you understand the key differences between double-sided adhesive tapes, you can start narrowing down your options. When choosing tape for your application, consider the following:
Criteria |
VHB Tape |
Double-Coated Tape |
Transfer Tape |
| Substrate Surface | Smooth, rough, or uneven surfaces | Smooth or slightly rough surfaces | Smooth surfaces |
| Strength Capabilities | Heavy loads with weight-bearing applications or materials under mechanical stress | Medium to lightweight loads | Typically lightweight loads |
| Thickness | Medium to high thickness | Moderate thickness | Very thin |
| Removability | Typically permanent | Semi-permanent or removable | Typically permanent |
| Environmental Resistance | Typically a heat-resistant adhesive tape able to withstand high and low temperatures | Moderate temperature resistance; degradation may occur at extremely high or low temperatures | Often made with high-performance adhesives capable of withstanding moderate to high temperatures |
| Application | Structural bonding, often between two different types of substrates | Mounting signage, trim, or displays | Electronics, circuitboards, graphics, labels, and splicing |
Need guidance choosing an adhesive for your application? American Flexible Products is here to help. As a 100% employee-owned company, you’ll speak to an owner every time you contact us.
How to Use Transfer Tape and Bonding Tape
The specific instructions for applying double-sided adhesive tape can vary depending on the type of tape you’re using and the substrates you’re bonding. You’ll need to consider the following before applying your adhesive:
- Environmental Factors: Ensure the ambient temperature is within the tape’s performance range.
- Dwell Time: Make sure you understand how long the tape needs to reach full bond strength after application.
- Surface Energy: Check that the adhesive is suitable to bond to your substrate.
Regardless of the type of tape you’re using, be sure to start with surface preparation. The surfaces you’re bonding should be free from dust, oil, and moisture. You may need to prepare the surface with a cleaning agent before application. Refer to the cleaning instructions for your substrate to choose an appropriate solution.
After cleaning, follow these steps:
- Apply the exposed adhesive to the first substrate with even pressure.
- If applicable, remove the release liner to expose the other side of the adhesive.
- Carefully align the second substrate with the adhesive.
- Apply even pressure to ensure full contact.
- Allow the adhesive to reach its full dwell time before use.
Keep in mind that many bonding tapes cannot be repositioned after they make contact with a substrate. Having custom-cut adhesives is one of the best ways to avoid application mistakes and ensure optimal adhesion. Contact AFP to learn how we can create the perfect adhesive for any application.
Custom Converting Solutions with American Flexible Products
Transfer tapes and mounting tapes are used for everything from crafts and hanging pictures to aerospace and defense applications. Off-the-shelf adhesives work great for some purposes, but demanding manufacturing environments, precision electronics, and commercial systems can benefit from custom solutions.
American Flexible Products is your partner for custom converting. We have 30 years of experience in custom slitting, die cutting, lamination, and other converting solutions that deliver products matching your exact specifications.
Contact us today to speak with our engineers and learn how our processes can streamline your production, boost your efficiency, and enhance your product performance.
