Act Now! The Most Common Reasons for Tape Failure

One of the most common reasons for tape failure is selecting the wrong tape for the specific application or substrate. With a variety of rubber and acrylic adhesive options on the market, each with different properties, it’s crucial to choose the right material.

Make sure you can answer the following questions before selecting a tape:

• What substrates need to be bonded?
• What is the surface texture – smooth or rough?
• What is the surface energy of the substrates? Do they need to be pre-treated?

The contour and design of the moulded part play a crucial role. If the die-cut part is not optimally suited for the application, the bond may fail.

Consider the following aspects when designing the die-cut part:

• Does the contour need to be roughly or precisely adapted to the shape of the component?
• What material thickness is required?
• Do positioning aids need to be integrated to place the die-cut part correctly?
• Does the design match the assembly process?

Careful planning and design of the moulded part can optimize the bond and improve durability.

Insufficient information about the external influences the bond will be exposed to can lead to unexpected problems.

Gather as much information as possible on the following aspects:

• What movements will affect the bond?
• Does the bond need to withstand extreme temperatures or weather conditions?
• How long does the bond need to last?
• Is the bond exposed to dust, water, or other substances?
• What forces (shear, peel, cleavage, etc.) will act on the bond?

With this data, an informed decision can be made to ensure the longevity and reliability of the bond.

Even the most promising tape can fail if not tested under realistic conditions.

Solution: Conduct comprehensive tests under real conditions. Pay particular attention to:

• Using original parts
• Adhering to real environmental conditions (temperature, time frame, assembly process)
• Don’t rely solely on datasheets

Individual tests tailored to the specific requirements of your application are essential to ensure the tape truly performs optimally.