Why Has My Adhesive Tape Failed?
Ever wondered why your adhesive tape isn't sticking as well as you'd expect? You're not alone! We often hear from customers puzzled by why their tape isn’t living up to the spec sheet promises.
Usually, it comes down to two main culprits: the wrong tape for the substrate or improper application.
1. Cleaning
To ensure optimal adhesive strength, it's crucial to clean the surface thoroughly. Remove dust and grease using a 70% solution of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) on a soft, lint-free cloth. Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry, with no streaks, grease, or dust remaining. For convenience, we offer individually packed, dust-free Stokvis IPA wipes. Contact us if you're interested.
2. Priming (Optional)
Bonding products with low surface energy, like PE or PP, can be challenging. In such cases, using a special tape or primer can be beneficial. Please reach out to Stokvis for tailored advice.
3. Applying
After cleaning and priming agents have dried, lightly and evenly apply the tape. Press it down using your hands, a pressure roller, or a press with a force of 1-1.5 kg/cm².
Important Considerations:
Ensure the surface quality is adequate. Poorly painted metal or wooden surfaces can compromise your work.
Apply adhesive tapes in a temperature range of 15°C to 35°C. Ensure all materials and tapes are at the same temperature by storing them in the same room at optimal temperature for at least 24 hours before application.
Avoid stretching the tape and ensure no air is trapped between the tape and the surface to prevent bond failure.
Apply appropriate pressure. Too much pressure can squeeze out the adhesive. Distribute the load evenly over the bond, and use more pressure on rough surfaces compared to smooth ones.
4. Adhesion Strength
Full adhesion strength is typically achieved within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the surface properties and tape type. For information on service temperature after achieving the final adhesive bond, please refer to the datasheet of the specific self-adhesive tape used.
Pro Tips:
Handle the adhesive side with clean hands or gloves to avoid transferring grease and dirt.
Use a roller to apply even pressure and push out any air bubbles.
By following these steps, you'll ensure your adhesive tape performs at its best. Happy sticking!
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