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SIM_Film-Converting_Splicing-003

How to choose the right tape for splicing

Trends

Splicing tapes are responsible for creating some of the most common household items. From disposable coffee cups and corrugated carrying sleeves to reusable grocery bags, the applications of splicing tape products go on and on.

Those in the printing press or package manufacturing industries rely on this adhesive technology to attach one piece of substrate to another, forming one continuous role. This can save teams hours of troubleshooting, since there is no need to rethread materials through a machine. Combine two rolls of film or paper in seconds to create something entirely new during production.

Types of splices

Depending on the facility, manufacturers call for different splicing techniques to create products in specific shapes. The type of substrate you use, adhesive requirements and the conversion process will influence which splicing method is appropriate for the task at hand. Here are some splicing procedures performed when working with paper rolls:

  • Butt splice: Two substrate ends are fastened together without overlapping. Butt splicing calls for manufacturers to place tape on one side of a connection.
  • Overlapping splice: A double-sided procedure in which two substrates cross over each other, and the tape bonds the surfaces together.
  • Flying splice: Equipment operators fasten double-coated splicing tape to one end of a paper roll. Using a fine blade, a release liner is pulled away leaving an adhesive surface for a second roll to attach.
  • W and V splice: A trusted method for producing newspapers without pages tearing. The splice takes on the pattern of a "W" or "V" increasing the strength of the bond.

Choosing the right tape for splicing

It can take a great deal of trial and error before finding the right product for your needs. Aside from the types of splices you'll perform, there are several key factors to consider when streamlining your manufacturing efforts. Consider the following before selecting splicing tapes.

Single-coated vs. double-coated splicing tapes

All splicing tapes can be categorized as single-coated or double-coated.

Single-coated tapes are recommended for butt splicing. This is a relatively simple bond that only takes place on one side of a substrate, which means less adhesive strength is necessary to keep materials together.

Double-coated splicing tapes are a better option for products that will be manipulated during the manufacturing process. Industries that use laminating machines and coating treatments will have better luck with double-coated tapes.

Consider the substrate

All manufacturing practices are different. Working with an experienced professional during the splicing tape selection process is necessary for desirable results.

Products that are challenging to splice like coated papers and cardboard call for high-strength tapes with exceptional tack. Anything you manufacture with a laminated surface or fire-resistant coating must have tape suitable for hot environments.

Manual and high-speed splicing machines

How fast do your manufacturing machines operate? Manual equipment leaves more time for adhesives to bond because rolls are stationary or move slowly. High-speed splicing machines are capable of bonding over 1,000 units per minute, so you'll need splicing tapes with additional tack.

Temperature and humidity conditions

Analyze your manufacturing stages before choosing a splicing tape product. If rolls of substrate travel through heat chambers, be sure to opt for adhesive solutions rated with a high-temperature resistance. This keeps bonds intact for minimal product waste.

Moisture and humidity can change the consistency of splicing tapes. Plants that utilize water such as paper production should use repulpable varieties for their machines. Repulpable splicing tapes are 100% biodegradable, and the adhesive solutions dissolve in water for fewer accidents on the production floor.

Contact tesa for help finding the right splicing tape

The experts at tesa specialize in creating pressure-sensitive adhesives for automotive, electronic, print applications and beyond. Our team has over 125 years of experience developing coating and tape technology for businesses worldwide. 

Reach out to us for more information on choosing the right splicing tape!