Precision die cutting is a versatile converting service that can improve your manufacturing process efficiency. At TPC Converting, we offer precision die-cutting services for adhesive tapes so that your production line runs smoothly and cost-effectively. The following are some of the main benefits of adhesive tape converting in the manufacturing industry.
Improve Efficiency
Adhesive tape converters like TPC Converting simplify manufacturing production processes by consolidating multiple steps into a single, convenient operation. Without efficient converting operations, companies traditionally would have to cut out each adhesive part, send it to another facility for lamination, transfer it to packaging, and then send it out to the final customer.
The right converter can instead design a solution that completes all of these steps in one facility with consistent efficiency. The converter can provide die-cut tapes in the exact dimensions you need, reducing waste and streamlining your assembly processes. These savings translate to minimized labor costs and enhanced productivity.
Converters can further customize die-cut adhesives upon request with:
- Pull Tabs: Ideal for smaller shapes, these non-adhesive protrusions allow users to easily pull apart the adhesive.
- Extended Liners: These are non-adhesive backings larger in width than the adhesive part. These features make it easier to grab and remove the liner as necessary.
Certain industries that require greater fastening efficiency benefit more from these customizations, including the appliance, automotive, and specialty vehicle industries.
Replace Mechanical Fasteners and Glue
Another advantage of using die-cut adhesives is the ability to eliminate the hassle of mechanical fasteners. For certain applications, very-high bond (VHB) tapes are more efficient, affordable, and consistent than mechanical fasteners. These die-cut adhesives typically form much stronger bonds than mechanical fasteners. The main reason for this is that die-cut adhesives evenly distribute stress loads along the entire bonded surface, whereas mechanical fasteners focus adhesion in one location through a rivet or bolt.
Another benefit is avoiding the mess that can come with liquid glue adhesives while increasing the accuracy and precision of application. Die-cut adhesive tapes are easy to install and produce a cleaner look, which translates into a good-looking end product.
Customize Solutions
A reputable adhesive tape converter will work closely with you to determine what you need for your application, considering any unique assembly challenges. The converter can recommend or customize adhesives of the right shape, size, and other specifications. Your converter should also provide you with plenty of samples to help you select the right choice based on the results they yield, which helps the converter continually optimize each solution.
Reduce Drilling and Welding
Die-cut adhesives also eliminate time-consuming and costly processes like welding and drilling. By doing away with these manual processes, your assembly line becomes quieter and safer, with no hazardous metal fragments or broken drill bits.
Automate the Application of Die-Cut Materials
Skilled adhesive tape converters like TPC Converting can also help with assembly automation. Benefits of automated die-cut adhesive application include:
- Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes provide a specific coat weight and an instant strong bond.
- The tight tolerances of die-cutting maximize repeatability.
- Automation can apply adhesives, lubricants, and sealants of all types with high accuracy.
- Automated adhesive application minimizes material waste.
Contact TPC Converting for Die-Cut Adhesive Tapes
If you want to experience the benefits of tape converting for your manufacturing process, the experts at TPC Converting are ready to help. We can develop custom adhesive tapes to your specifications, helping you automate and increase the overall efficiency of your operations. Contact us today to learn more about what our solutions can do for you.
Tape and glue are two common bonding methods that are used throughout numerous industries. While there are many suitable uses for liquid adhesives like glue, advancements in converting, laminating, and printing techniques have made tape highly versatile and effective. Also referred to as pressure-sensitive adhesive, PSA tape, or self-stick tape, these products are made by adding an adhesive material to a backing, such as plastic, paper, metal foil, or cloth.
When it comes to tape vs. glue, in many applications tapes deliver more durable performance than glue, among other benefits. From quick bonding times to environmental sustainability and more, learn all the ways in which tapes are better than glue.
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1. Tapes Are More Versatile
Tapes are extremely versatile and come in a variety of sizes, strengths, and colors. There is a tape product tailored to the needs of virtually any type of project, with examples such as:
- Double-sided tape
- Custom packaging tape
- Fabric tape
- Silicone tape
- Waterproof tape
Tape’s versatility is not only due to the wide array of material options but also because of its easily customizable manufacturing process. Using die-cutting equipment, tape can be cut into any geometry or size. It’s also possible to laminate multiple materials together to create custom double-sided, multi-material tapes. These techniques can create a vast array of adhesive tapes. For example, pressure-sensitive adhesive can be added to the back of a material like foam or light-gauge aluminum.
In addition, while many glues are created for general bonding purposes, tapes can be better customized to specific needs. Certain characteristics, like UV resistance or substrate compatibility, are more easily achieved using tape.
2. Tapes Last Longer
No matter what purpose you need an adhesive for, your solution must be able to withstand storage time and environmental conditions. Unfortunately, this presents a problem for many liquid adhesives. Glue tends to lose its effectiveness much more quickly than tape and breaks down during storage more easily. UV light or air exposure quickly dries out glue as the liquid solvents evaporate.
Tape, on the other hand, is easily stacked and stored for long periods. It doesn’t require special storage conditions like airtight lockers or flammability cabinets. As long as they’re kept away from moisture, optimal performance is guaranteed for a long time.
3. Tapes Bond Faster
While liquid adhesives require a variety of extended curing times, tape bonds immediately. The physical interaction between tape’s adhesive layer and the substrate creates an immediate and durable bond: Simply peel, stick, and press. With glue products, the solvent needs to evaporate before a lasting bond can form. In some cases, an oven is required to accelerate this process and achieve the required bond strength. Hours or even days must pass before some types of glue reach their final cured state.
4. Tapes Create Less Mess and Waste
Since tapes have a uniform thickness, can be die cut according to exact specifications, and remain in optimal condition for long periods of time, they create much less waste than glue. With tape, after using a small amount, the remaining roll will still be usable for the next project. In contrast, glue can dry out, expire, become contaminated, or leak. If storage conditions are not highly controlled, glue is easily wasted.
5. Tapes Are More Eco-Friendly
Many glues use volatile organic solvents (VOCs) that harm the environment and people’s health as they evaporate. According to the EPA, VOCs from glues and adhesives can cause anything from allergic skin reactions to organ damage, cancer, and more—in addition to harming the environment. Tapes, on the other hand, are solvent-free, making them a more sustainable choice. In addition, since die-cut tapes are cut to fit each application’s requirements and remain usable even after storage, they create much less landfill waste than glue.
6. Tapes Save Space
Using tapes does not require additional equipment, so facilities can save square footage for other purposes. Tapes also do not require designated floor space for cure time, since tapes cure instantly.
Explore Tape Options at TPC Converting
If you’re considering tape or glue for an upcoming project, TPC Converting can help you find the right solution. While glue is necessary for certain applications, there is a vast number of projects where tape is the more suitable option. For reliable and easy-to-use bonding, custom tapes offer the ideal solution.
At TPC Converting, we help customers obtain effective, attractive, and cost-effective tape products, developed to meet their specific application requirements. To get started, contact us or request a quote today.
