Manufacturers that work with automotive components, electronics and industrial equipment need ways to attach two different substrates together. In some cases, the use of bonding tapes and glues have replaced the need for traditional fasteners that require professionals to puncture holes in structural materials.

 

Equipment operators and decision-makers often wonder, "Which is stronger, glue or tape?" The answer depends on several factors, but there is no question that adhesive tapes provide numerous advantages compared to liquid glues.

 

 

1) Adhesive Tape is Less Money 

 

Liquid adhesives can be difficult to apply on the production floor. Even when spreading liquid glues by hand, dripping and spills leave room for concern. All it takes is one minor accident to leave surfaces, substrates and tools coated with a sticky mess.

 

Adhesive tapes can be cut in seconds to meet the guidelines of a project. Manufacturing companies can be precise with product placement, and tape can help minimize waste in your facility.

 

2) Adhesive Tapes Bond Immediately

 

Manufacturers can maximize productivity with adhesive tapes, since they do not have to cure. Workers can measure the exact amount of product they need, cut strips and apply instantly. Most liquid glues on the market take hours if not days to completely dry before products can enter the next stage of the assembly process.

 

3) Adhesive Tapes are Uniform 

 

All manufacturing operations strive for consistency. Adhesive tapes provide a valuable advantage over liquid glues in terms of coverage. It is nearly impossible to place the same amount of glue on each piece of substrate throughout production. In contrast, tapes can be cut to size for a uniform appearance and thickness.

 

4) Adhesive Tape is Easier to Automate

 

Taking a side in the adhesive tape vs. liquid glue discussion is simple when looking at production timelines. There is a reason why businesses transition from adhesive glues to bonding tapes, as strips can be die-cut for quicker turnarounds. Quality control becomes less of an issue when using adhesive tapes because no special tools are necessary. Workers can tear tape by hand or with scissors, while glues involve the use of heavy buckets, brushes and drop mats.

 

5) Adhesive Tape Bond to More Surfaces

 

Trying to decide whether glue or tape is appropriate for your applications? Adhesive tapes are versatile for a wide variety of substrates. Your company can purchase tapes in double-sided configurations and different thicknesses for increased tack.

 

Bonding tapes are excellent for attaching metals, molded silicones, wood and plastics such as polystyrene and polyethylene. Manufacturers in automotive and aerospace industries benefit from tape solutions for their ability to absorb vibrations and reduce rattling, which liquid sealants can't do.

 

So Which Is Stronger: Glue or Tape?

 

Ultimately, the performance of adhesive tapes and liquid glues will be influenced by your applications and environment. There is no definitive answer as to which solution is stronger. Make an educated decision for your operations by considering the type of substrates you work with, the temperature of your facility and production deadlines.

 

Manufacturing professionals must look at their procedures before deciding on the most practical bonding method for their industry. Adhesive tapes may be the logical choice if products are exposed to zero-gravity conditions or if you plan to reuse bonding materials.