Adhesive Applications

Versatility and Durability: Exploring the World of Polyester Film Tape

Introduction
In the realm of adhesives and tapes, versatility and durability are key factors when choosing the right solution for various applications. Polyester film tape, often referred to as PET tape, is a powerful tool known for its adaptability, strength, and resistance to a multitude of environmental factors. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of polyester film tape, examining its properties, applications, and why it has become a staple in a wide range of industries.

The Strength and Versatility of Polyester Film Tape
Polyester film tape is made from a thin, flexible, and exceptionally strong material called polyethylene terephthalate (PET or polyester for short). This material is widely recognized for its outstanding mechanical and electrical properties, as well as its excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and temperature extremes. When combined with a high performance pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) a wide range of single and double coated tapes can be produced.  These qualities make polyester film tape a versatile and dependable choice for various applications.

Applications of Polyester Film Tape

  • Electronics Industry: Polyester film tape is a go-to solution for insulating and securing electrical components. It’s often used to wrap and protect delicate wires, cables, and connectors due to its excellent dielectric strength. It can also be used as a masking tape in printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing, where it helps protect circuits from harsh chemicals, as well as moisture and dust.
    • Adhesive Applications has a variety of silicone based adhesive tapes designed for high temperature applications.  The S8512-2 is the 2mil PET single-coated tape version and the S9511-2 is the 1mil PET single-coated tape version.
  • Protective films:  When combined with removable, aging resistant adhesives PET is an extremely effective backing for protective tapes.  Especially useful as a durable protective media for smooth surfaces such as metals and plastics.  It also works well as a carrier / cutting surface during die-cutting and other converting processes of flimsier materials that need support during processing
    • The A5000 and A5002 single-coated low tack adhesive tapes are popular in surface protection applications.  The durability of the PET and residue free removal characteristics of these tapes ensure a quality deliverable product.  
  • Aerospace and Automotive Industries: In these high-performance environments, PET tape is valued for its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and environmental conditions. It can be used to secure wires, cables, and hoses in engine compartments and aerospace components. PET is also a common carrier in many high performance double coated bonding and mounting tapes.
  • Medical Devices: Polyester film tape is a valuable component in the assembly of medical devices. Its biocompatibility and resistance to sterilization processes make it suitable for applications in healthcare settings.
    • The S7105 single-coated low tack silicone adhesive tape is 100% biocompatible.  The PET carrier and silicone adhesive pass cytotoxicity standards that allow for skin contact.
  • Packaging and Labeling: The tape’s strong adhesive properties make it ideal for sealing boxes, cartons, and packages. It ensures that packages remain secure and tamper-evident during transit. Additionally, polyester film tape can serve as a label facestock and/or a label protector, safeguarding critical information from wear and tear.

Advantages of Polyester Film Tape

  • High Tensile Strength: PET tape is known for its exceptional tensile strength, which allows it to withstand mechanical stress and maintain its structural integrity.
  • Chemical Resistance: The tape is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, making it ideal for applications where exposure to solvents or corrosive substances is a concern.
  • Temperature Resistance: Polyester film tape can endure a broad temperature range, from extremely low to high temperatures, without compromising its performance.
  • Moisture Resistance: Its resistance to moisture and humidity makes it suitable for outdoor applications or in environments with varying levels of humidity.
  • Clarity and Transparency: For applications requiring transparency, PET tape is available in clear and colorless variations, maintaining visual clarity while providing adhesion.

Conclusion
Polyester film tape, with its remarkable strength, versatility, and resilience, has cemented its place in various industries, from electronics and automotive to packaging and beyond. Its ability to withstand challenging environmental conditions, chemicals, and temperature extremes makes it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative uses and formulations for polyester film tape, further expanding its role in modern manufacturing and everyday life.