Foam Tapes
Foam tapes are versatile adhesive tapes that feature a foam core sandwiched between two layers of adhesive. This construction gives them unique properties that make them ideal for a wide range of applications. Foam Tapes are available as single-sided foam tape or double-sided foam tape. They are used for a wide range of applications including bonding, sealing, thermal insulation, gaskets, and a variety of bonding and sealing tasks.
What is Foam Tape?
Foam tapes, also known as padded tape, promise superior results due to their exceptional qualities as they are made from either polyethylene, polyurethane, or polyvinyl material and are adhesive-backed.
High performing adhesive foam tapes have a variety of applications including shock absorption, vibration, and sound dampening, and are supplied in various thickness sizes.
This tape is commonly used instead of mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, and rivets due to its strong vibration resistance, durability, and ability to seal against heat, cold, gas, and liquid. You even don't have to worry about dust, air, or wind-driven snow when you use foam seal tape.
Foam Tape Types
Foam tapes are broadly categorised into two main types based on the application of adhesive: single-sided and double-sided. Each type offers unique advantages and is suited for specific applications.
Single-Sided Foam Tapes
With only one side of the tape having adhesive, this tape works great for gaskets and protective packaging. It works on uneven surfaces and will expand or reduce in size to ensure the gap is filled.
Double-Sided Foam Tapes
The adhesive is applied on both sides of the foam. Mainly used for mounting applications also thermal insulation, fastening and gap filling. You can also make use of a foam seal in absence of double-sided foam tapes as they are great alternatives to consider when packing up breakables.
Materials for Foam or Padded Tape
Acrylic Foam
Acrylic foam tapes, often referred to by the trademarked name VHB (Very High Bond), are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They offer excellent adhesion to a wide variety of surfaces, even in challenging conditions like high temperatures or exposure to UV light. This makes them ideal for demanding applications in automotive, construction, and industrial settings.
Silicone Foam
**Silicone **foam tapes are prized for their high temperature resistance and flexibility. They can withstand extreme temperatures, making them suitable for applications in electronics, aerospace, and other industries where heat resistance is critical. Silicone foam tapes also offer good chemical resistance and are often used as foam seal tape in demanding environments.
EPDM Foam
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) foam tapes are known for their excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV radiation. They also offer good cushioning and sealing properties, making them suitable for outdoor applications, automotive weatherstripping, and gaskets.
PVC Foam
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) foam tapes are a cost-effective option that offers good resistance to moisture and chemicals. They are often used for general purpose bonding and sealing applications, such as mounting signs, displays, and exhibits. PVC foam is also commonly used for foam insulation tape due to its closed-cell structure.
Polyethylene Foam (PE Foam)
PE foam is a lightweight and flexible material that offers good cushioning and shock absorption. It is often used for protective packaging, as well as for gasketing and sealing applications where a soft, conformable material is needed. PE foam tapes are also commonly used for adhesive foam strips in applications where a combination of cushioning and adhesion is desired.
Foam Tape Properties
A variety of foam tapes are available in the market based on factors such as their density, structure, and adhesion properties. Each variety serves a different purpose, and each one fulfills a different need. Their flexibility makes them ideal for fixing uneven surfaces with ease.
It is even possible to use them in the presence of moisture, high temperatures, and other solvents outdoors. Different foam tapes have different adhesive levels and it greatly depends on how they are used. Some of the unique properties are as follows:
- Temperatures between -40°F and 300°F are normal for foam tape.
- UV radiation from the sun, moisture, and solvents have no effect on it.
- It is capable of compensating for varying thermal expansions due to its high bonding strength.
However, you should always consider the specific properties of foam tapes prior to making your choice. It's because choosing the right foam tape for your application is crucial to the success of your finished product.
Key Features of Foam Tapes
Foam tapes offer a unique combination of properties that make them valuable in a wide range of applications. Here are some of their key features:
Strong Adhesion
Foam tapes provide strong adhesion to various surfaces, including metal, plastic, glass, and wood. Adhesive foam tapes are available with different types of adhesives, such as acrylic, rubber, and silicone, to suit specific bonding needs.
Cushioning and Shock Absorption
The foam core of foam tapes provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, making them ideal for protecting delicate items during shipping or for reducing vibration in electronic devices. Padded tape is a term often used to describe foam tapes with these cushioning properties.
Gap Filling
Foam tapes can effectively fill gaps and irregularities between surfaces, creating a secure seal and preventing air or moisture leakage. This is particularly useful for weatherstripping, gasketing, and insulation applications. Foam seal tape is specifically designed for this purpose.
Thermal Insulation
Some foam tapes or strips, particularly those made with closed-cell foam like PVC or PE, offer good thermal insulation properties. Foam insulation tape can help to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency in buildings and appliances.
Conformability
Foam tapes are highly conformable, meaning they can easily adapt to irregular surfaces and contours. This makes them ideal for bonding and sealing applications where a flexible and adaptable material is needed.
Ease of Use
Foam tapes are easy to apply and require no special tools or equipment. Self adhesive foam tapes and self adhesive foam strips are particularly convenient, as they can be simply peeled and stuck to the desired surface.
How to Use an Adhesive Foam Tape Correctly
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Ensure the surfaces to be bonded are clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or other contaminants. This will ensure proper adhesion and prevent the foam tape from peeling off.
Step 2: Ensure the Right Temperature
Apply the foam tape at the recommended temperature range specified by the manufacturer. Extreme temperatures can affect the adhesive's performance, potentially weakening the bond or hindering its ability to stick properly. If you are using foam tape in a high-temperature environment, such as an engine compartment or near a heat source, be sure to choose heat resistant foam tape designed for those conditions.
**Step 3: Apply Pressure **
Apply firm and even pressure to the foam tape after application to ensure proper contact with both surfaces. This will help to activate the adhesive and create a strong bond.
Step 4: Leave it to Cure
Allow sufficient cure time for the adhesive to reach its full strength. This time can vary depending on the type of adhesive and the environmental conditions.
Industrial Applications of Foam Tapes and Foam Strips
Foam tapes and foam strips are widely used in various industries for a multitude of applications. Here are some examples:
Automotive Industry
Foam tapes are used to attach trim and emblems, seal gaps around windows and doors, reduce noise and vibration, and mount electronic components. Foam seal tape is particularly important for creating a weathertight seal and preventing water leaks.
Electronics Industry
Foam tapes are used for mounting displays and touchscreens, cushioning delicate components, providing thermal insulation, and sealing electronic enclosures. Adhesive foam strips are often used for securing components and providing vibration dampening.
Construction Industry
Foam tapes are essential for sealing joints and gaps in building envelopes, installing windows and doors, and mounting insulation materials. Foam insulation tape helps improve energy efficiency and reduce drafts.
Aerospace Industry
Foam tapes are used for sealing aircraft components, reducing vibration and noise, providing thermal insulation, and mounting lightweight panels. Their lightweight and high-performance characteristics make them ideal for aerospace applications.
Medical Industry
Foam tapes are used for securing medical devices and equipment, cushioning and protecting sensitive components, and creating airtight seals in medical packaging. They contribute to the safety and effectiveness of medical devices and products.
How to Choose the Right Foam Tape
Selecting the appropriate foam tape for your application is crucial for achieving the desired results. Consider these factors:
Application Requirements
Determine the specific needs of your application, such as bonding strength, cushioning, gap filling, or insulation. This will help you narrow down the choices and select the right type of foam tape.
Foam Type
Consider the type of foam material, such as acrylic, silicone, EPDM, PVC, or PE, based on the required properties like temperature resistance, flexibility, and chemical resistance.
Adhesive Type
Choose the appropriate adhesive type, such as acrylic, rubber, or silicone, based on the surfaces to be bonded and the required bonding strength.
Thickness and Density
Select the appropriate thickness and density of the foam tape based on the application requirements. Thicker and denser foam tapes generally provide more cushioning and gap-filling capabilities.
Environmental Conditions
Consider the environmental conditions the foam tape will be exposed to, such as temperature, humidity, and UV radiation. Choose a foam tape that can withstand these conditions.
Size and Format
Foam tapes are available in various sizes and formats, including rolls, sheets, and die-cut shapes. Choose the format that best suits your application needs.
Trusted Foam Tapes and Foam Strips Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia
Need foam tapes? RS is your go-to supplier in Australia, offering a wide range of high-quality adhesive foam tapes for various applications. We stock foam tapes in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and densities to meet your specific needs.
Whether you're looking for foam insulation tape to improve energy efficiency, foam seal tape to create a watertight seal, or adhesive foam strips for mounting and bonding, you'll find it all at RS.
Shop our selection of foam tapes and foam strips online today from brands like 3M, Tesa, Hi-Bond, and more. For more details on our delivery services and fees, please visit our Delivery Page.