There are many different kinds of foam tapes that you can purchase for various projects. Each type has unique properties that make it better suited for one job than another, and each also comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The following is a list of different types of foam tapes available for purchase, along with an explanation detailing their differences.
1) BUBBLE CUSHIONING TAPE:
This type of foam tape is often used as packing material, but it also has other important uses. It is manufactured with small bubbles inside to give it extra elasticity and shock absorption qualities. Combined with the low profile design, these properties Makemake this product perfect for protecting products during shipment or storage.
2) EXPANDED POLYETHYLENE (EPE) FOAM TAPE:
This type of foam tape is the most common and also usually the least expensive. It features a smooth outer surface that does not have any adhesive but rather only on the back. The bubbles inside are smaller than other types, but they retain their elasticity for longer periods.
3) INSUL-KNIFE INSULATION FOAM TAPE:
This type of foam tape is very similar to expanded polyethylene in terms of design. One major difference is that it has an aluminum foil or scrim facing instead of bubble material. This provides extra strength while maintaining its flexibility. However, because there are no air bubbles involved, it will not absorb water or dissipate heat and other types.
4) POLYETHYLENE CLOSED-CELL FOAM TAPE:
This type of foam tape is made from a solid polymer block and has no bubbles at all, either in the material or between the layers (closed-cell design). It features a thick adhesive that is excellent for high-temperature applications and can be purchased with an acrylic adhesive backing that works well with plastics and other hard surfaces.
5) ACRYLIC FOAM TAPE:
This type of foam tape is similar to polyethylene because it does not have any air bubbles and is highly durable and elastic. However, unlike polyethylene, it will not absorb water or dissipate heat as readily. It also features flexible properties so it can withstand uneven surfaces without losing its shape. It is made from a solid polymer block and can be purchased with an acrylic adhesive backing that works well on tough surfaces.
6) CHECKMATE DOUBLE-SIDED FOAM TAPE:
This form of foam tape is very similar to the first type mentioned, bubble cushioning tape. As its name suggests, it has a layer of bubbles between a thin film of release liner on each side. The difference is that one of these layers also features a strong pressure-sensitive adhesive, so you have more options for where you stick it. It is usually used as packing material or as a sealing strip around windows or doors during shipment to prevent any dust or dirt from getting inside them.
7) VINYL FOAM DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE:
This type of double-sided foam tape uses bubbles that are slightly larger than most similar products. It is designed to have a strong adhesive that is not as likely to cause the edges of the tape to lift over time, and it also has a stiff backing so it can be used on uneven surfaces without tearing or curling up.
CONCLUSION:
As you can see, there are many different types of foam tape available for purchase, and each one is good for a particular job. To pick the best type, you should consider what your application may be and choose accordingly. Hopefully, this has been helpful to anyone looking to get some foam tape.