Strapping Tape Concepts Demystified

Strapping Tape, also called filament tape, is a kind of adhesive that is used primarily for packaging functions such as sealing cardboard boxes and general-purpose bundling. There are appropriate types and grades for every given task and the terminology can be confusing. Hence, this article will discuss the more esoteric but nonetheless important concepts encountered when searching for the most suitable tape for a job.

Elasticity or Elongation is the material's resistance to necking or permanent deformation caused by immense strain. This is critical for packages containing loose contents like small machine parts or non-solid components. Frequent movement exerts strain on the container so that the supporting tape is stretched repeatedly. A necked tape compromises the integrity of the packaging, as it may cause the contents to spill out.

Tensile strength is the rate of resistance to distortion. Typically, higher ratings mean a better ability to withstand higher levels of pressure without disintegrating. This is imperative for heavy-duty jobs such as packaging for international shipment as sea currents may destroy packages in freight containers. Unfortunately, tensile strength is inversely proportional to elasticity – more of one means less of the other. Thus, it is important to strike a balance between the two for optimum efficiency.

Backing material, on the other hand, refers to the material that constitutes the bulk of the tape. This is distinct from the substance that makes the tape adhere to surfaces. There are a number of options for backing material - the primary types being paper, plastic (polypropylene), and fiberglass. The backing material component affects the suitability of the tape for a particular use. Paper is preferred for its wide availability, electrostatic resilience and biodegradability. Plastic is chosen for its elasticity, moisture resistance and relative economy. Fiberglass is good for necking resistance, durability, and heat resistance. When choosing the right kind of tape, the type of backing material is just as important as the first two.

These three characteristics may sound too technical for the average person, but they are indispensable in ascertaining that the desired results for any packaging process can be attained. As the old cliché goes, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.