Common Converting Applications in the Appliance Industry

Adhesives, films, tapes, and gaskets are widely used in the appliance industry for applications ranging from assembly to protective panels to sound and vibration dampening and more. Converting operations like die and laser cutting, laminating, sheeting, and slitting make it efficient and cost-effective to manufacture these custom materials.

Here we’ll look at the most common applications for conversion products in the appliance industry.

Appliance Assembly

Some appliance assembly tasks are well-suited to adhesives or tapes. Die cutting is used to make adhesive strips, polyester film panels, and gaskets in custom shapes and sizes. Using adhesives for home appliance assembly can boost productivity since these materials can often be applied using automated assembly systems such as dispensers or rollers.

Common applications of converted materials in appliance assembly include:

• Permanently adhering components, like nameplates or handles
• Temporarily holding components or subassemblies in place between assembly steps, such as tacking panels or screens in place
• Very high bond (VHB) adhesive materials used as alternatives to clips or fasteners
• Bonding membranes between switch layers
• Neoprene rubber appliance gaskets for dampening vibrations and noise
• Gaskets or tapes for sealing internal connections

Improved Visual Appeal

In addition to performance, aesthetic appeal is a primary goal in appliance design. That can come from purely decorative elements as well as the pleasing appearance of a shiny, flawless finish. Decals, labels, and plastic film strips or sheets protect exterior panels during storage, transportation, and installation. They also provide opportunities for eye-catching branding, simple directions, or highlighting product features and functionalities.

Converting operations like die-cutting, lamination, and sheeting are used in cutting film to size, applying protective layers to labels, and cutting complex shapes to fit components precisely.

Some examples include:

• Thin plastic sheeting applied to panels and surfaces to protect exterior finishes
• Laminated safety or warning labels on cords or access panels
• Temporary film covers that protect touch screens from scratches
• Decorative decals and labels with branding, images, or instructions
• Adhesive film covers on smooth glass cooktops or polished handles to preserve “like new” finishes

Enhanced Product Protection

Laminating involves applying a thin polymer or other coating layer to paper or another substrate to make it water-resistant, more durable, or textured. In addition to adding visual elements to an appliance, such as a decal, laminated materials provide protection from liquid ingress, corrosion, dirt, scratches, and even minor dings or dents.

Other ways to improve product protection with converted materials include:

• Custom-cut protective films
• Foam gaskets to keep internal components and doors from moving and damaging each other
• Rubber or plastic adhesive “feet” on the underside of cabinets or enclosures
• Tapes for securing protective packaging, like cardboard or paper, between appliance doors, inside drawers, or to hold racks and cords in place during transportation
• Plastic or laminated materials can strengthen delicate components and provide protection from moisture and dirt

Acoustic and Vibration Dampening

Appliances can create considerable noise and vibration during regular operation. Because they are often located near primary living spaces in a home, it’s important to minimize these as much as possible. Continued vibrations within an appliance can also damage it or shorten its service life. Custom die-cut gaskets, pads, and coverings made from foams of different densities are useful in dampening noise and movement in appliances.

Sample applications for foam gaskets include:

• Die-cut insulating mats and blankets in and around dishwashers to minimize vibration and noise
• Foam gaskets applied to component mating surfaces to minimize rubbing
• Gaskets and pipe or hose covers to limit rattling and squeaking in HVAC equipment
• Padding and linings inside motor, pump, or fan enclosures

Thermal Management

Thermal insulation reduces heat transfer between components within appliances to ensure optimal performance. It also blocks excessive appliance heat from reaching neighboring furniture, cupboards, or fixtures.

Die-cut gaskets and padding help regulate thermal energy and in doing so, they promote energy efficiency. Foils and other non-combustible, non-porous materials can reduce the risk of fire, control condensation, and maintain consistent operating temperatures.

Some examples of thermal management applications include:

• Gaskets and hose coverings in A/C and furnace units
• Die-cut insulating pads wrapped around dishwasher tubs and slide-in ranges
• Temperature-regulating foam strips in electronic devices

Contact TPC Converting for Appliance Industry Tapes, Films, and More

TPC Converting’s converting capabilities include custom laser and die cutting, lamination, slitting and rewinding, sheeting, stacking, and prototyping. We focus on efficient and cost-effective production for every project through established supplier relationships, value-added services, and time studies. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, we are committed to providing quality products and services time and again.

Contact us to speak with a specialist about custom converting services for your appliance industry applications.