FAQ

When it comes to selecting a self-adhesive tape for use in an airtight building construction, it's important to choose a tape that is specifically designed for this purpose. So, we’re sorry, but there is no easy answer. As experts, we can help you make this decision and guide you through the engineering process. Here are a few types of tape that are commonly used for airtight building construction:

1. Rubber-based tapes: Rubber-based tapes are known for their ability to conform to irregular surfaces. They are often used for sealing joints, seams, and penetrations in airtight constructions. Multifoil can deliver up to 3,5mm solvent free tapes for building and construction conform the certificates EMICODE and EC1 PLUS.
2. Butyl-based tapes: Butyl-based tapes are known for their flexibility and durability. They are used for sealing around penetrations and for creating airtight connections between different materials. They are mostly used on the outside of the building shell. We can deliver butyl tapes in different sizes and lengths.
3. Foam-based tapes: Foam-based tapes are used for sealing gaps and cracks in building envelopes. They can be compressed to fill gaps and provide excellent air-sealing properties. We can deliver foam tapes with different density, adhesive, colors and thicknesses.
4. Acrylic-based tapes: commonly used for air tight sealing in outside and UV exposed applications. Weather resistance: Acrylic tapes are resistant to weathering and UV degradation, which means they can maintain their adhesion and sealing properties over time, even when exposed to sunlight, rain, or temperature changes. We manufacture acrylic solvent free and low VOC emissions tapes up to 130my.

When selecting a tape for airtight building construction, it's important to choose a tape that is appropriate for the specific application. It's also important to ensure that the tape is compatible with other building materials and that it meets relevant building codes and standards like EMICODE or A+.

The correct tape improves airtightness and is a real asset in your construction. Your building envelope is as strong as your weakest link within the construction. The wrong tape can cause unwanted leakage and airflow. When properly applied, a tape can seal gaps and joints in building components, preventing the infiltration of air and moisture.  

Different substrates and membranes can ask for a different tape. Bonding these materials together can be a challenge. Please make sure to test all tapes on all your material before applying it into a critical application such as airtight building. Any questions? Just ask one of our experts.

Although self-adhesive products are usually and easy and clean method of installing, making a product self-adhesive in-line can be difficult. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. The difficulty depends on the characteristics of the substrate. Some materials are inherently challenging to bond with adhesives, such as certain plastics or low-surface-energy materials like polypropylene. When in doubt, contact one of our experts. www.multifoil.com/en/contact
2. Adhesive Selection: choosing the right adhesive is crucial for achieving a strong and durable bond. The adhesive must be compatible with the materials involved and should offer appropriate adhesion properties, such as peel strength, shear strength, and temperature resistance. Finding the right adhesive formulation can require testing and experimentation.
3. Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is essential to ensure good adhesion. Surfaces must be clean, free from contaminants, and sometimes roughened or treated to enhance adhesive bonding. Incorporating surface preparation steps into the production line may require additional machinery or modifications.

Overall, making a product self-adhesive (in-line) can range from being relatively straightforward to more complex, depending on the factors mentioned above. Engaging with adhesive experts or process engineers can be helpful in assessing the feasibility and determining the best approach for your specific product and production line. Contact us on info@multifoil.nl if you need any guidance.

Even the most experienced craftsman sometimes don’t have enough knowledge on working with tape. When it comes to installing with self-adhesive tapes, here are the top three tips to ensure a successful application:

1. Preparing the surface: properly preparing the surface is crucial for a strong bond. Ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and free from any dust, dirt, or oil. Clean the surface using a mild detergent and make sure it is completely dry before applying the tape.
2. Application: pay attention to the application technique to achieve optimal results. Start by measuring and cutting the tape to the desired length and shape. Remove a small section of the backing liner and carefully align the tape with the intended surface, ensuring a straight and even application. Gradually remove the backing liner while pressing the tape firmly onto the surface, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go along. Apply consistent pressure for a secure bond.
3. Temperature considerations: temperature can significantly affect the performance of self-adhesive tapes. Ensure that the installation temperature and storing temperature fall within the recommended range provided. Generally, most tapes adhere well to room temperature. However, when working in extreme heat, cold and/or moist conditions, it might be wise to engage with one of our experts at info@multifoil.nl

Yes, it can be important. When the tape is being applied to a surface, the start speed refers to how quickly the tape starts to make contact with the surface. If the start speed is too fast, the tape may not have enough time to properly adhere to the surface, leading to a weaker bond. Time is one of the most important factors in creating a strong bond.

Secondly, if the stop or re-start speed is too fast, some types of tape or liners may rupture, leading to machine stoppage and requiring repeated cleaning to remove any tape residue.

Firstly, it ensures a more secure and stable bond between the tape and the flooring. When the tape precisely matches the profile of the flooring, it creates a stronger, more even bond that helps prevent the tape from peeling away or becoming dislodged. No bleeding onto the substrate.

Secondly, it can help to create a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing finish. A tape that matches the flooring profile will blend seamlessly into the surface, creating a uniform and professional-looking finish.

Thirdly, it can help to improve safety by reducing the risk of trips and falls. A tape that sits flush with the flooring is less likely to create a tripping hazard than a tape that is raised or uneven. A tape that is unstable in its bond will loosen over time and the profile will detach itself from the substrate.

Overall, designing a self-adhesive tape that precisely matches the flooring profile can provide a more secure, aesthetically pleasing, and safe solution for a range of flooring applications.

Especially in the DIY market, it can be very handy and easy to just peel away a liner and adhere the profile straight to the floor.

A specially designed tape can provide instant adhesion without drying times compared to for example wet adhesives. Tapes also provide a great alternative to mechanical fasteners like nails and screws because they form an invisible bond leaving the surface of the profile clean and smooth. Not allowing dirt and dust to collect. Our tape solutions offer a high quality and immediate ready-to-use solution for your customer.

Condensation occurs naturally in multi-wall sheets due to the relative humidity in the atmosphere. When water vapor encounters cooler surfaces, it transforms into droplets, which then merge to create liquid within the multi-wall flutes or cells. The Multifoil AntiDUST® tape filter utilizes a unique surface treatment that facilitates the swift evacuation of accumulated condensation, while still maintaining the size of the micromesh barrier that prevents other contaminants from entering the cells. Algae and fungus both require water to survive, making condensation their lifeblood. It is essential to remove condensation as quickly as possible to prevent their growth. However, many competitor products fail to drain adequately, creating an environment that is ideal for algae reproduction.

Extensive research has uncovered a number of unusual phenomena related to condensation in multi-wall panels. To address this issue, a suggestion was put forward to seal both ends of the panels. However, practical tests have shown that this approach is not effective, as condensation still accumulates within the flutes. Further analysis has revealed that even if the multi-wall sheets were sealed under near-vacuum conditions, condensate would still form.

The reason for this is that the surface of the multi-wall panels behaves like a semi-permeable membrane, allowing water vapor to penetrate the panels. As a result, continuous drain-ability is necessary to provide an outlet for condensate. This can be achieved through the use of AntiDUST® tape.

Our network of distributors spans across the globe, ensuring that AntiDUST® tape is readily accessible in your local area. To connect with your nearest distributor, kindly get in touch with us on info@antidusttape.com.

If you're interested in becoming a distributor for AntiDUST® Tape, we welcome you to reach out to us on info@antidusttape.com so that we can explore various options together.

Proper surface preparation is crucial to ensure optimal adhesion and performance when applying self-adhesive tape. Here are some general steps to prepare the surface before applying self-adhesive tape:

1. Clean the surface: Remove any dirt, debris, loose particles, or contaminants from the area where the tape will be applied. It's important to have a clean surface for the tape to adhere properly.
2. Ensure dryness: Ensure that the surface is completely dry before applying the self-adhesive tape. Moisture or dampness can hinder the adhesive's effectiveness. If needed, allow the surface to dry naturally or use a dryer or heat gun to accelerate the drying process. Be cautious when using heat to avoid damaging other materials.
3. Check temperature requirements: Check the temperature range as specified for applying the self-adhesive tape. Most of our tapes require specific temperature conditions for optimal adhesion. Ensure the surface and ambient temperatures fall within the recommended range.

It's like walking through an open door, but ensuring both the quality and making the right fitted choice are absolutely crucial. Unfortunately, history has repeatedly shown us that opting for a suboptimal option or following misguided advice often leads to disastrous outcomes.

However, it's important to note that the actual lifespan of the tape can be influenced by factors such as exposure to extreme temperatures, and UV radiation for instance through leakage, moisture, chemicals, and the overall maintenance of the roof. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure that the complete structure remains intact and functioning properly. All these factors determine our advice, but also our dedication to manufacturing quality tapes for the building industry.

Self-adhesive tapes have various applications in roof construction. Some common uses of self-adhesive tapes include:

1. Seam sealing: Self-adhesive tapes are used to seal seams and joints in roofing materials, such as overlapping sections of membrane roofs, foils, or joining sections. They provide an additional layer of waterproofing and help prevent water penetration.
2. Roof underlayment: Certain self-adhesive tapes are designed to be used as an additional layer of moisture barrier and protection beneath the primary roofing materials.
3. Flashing repairs: Roof flashing is used to seal and protect vulnerable areas where the roof meets other elements like walls, chimneys, vents, or skylights. Self-adhesive tapes can be used to repair or reinforce flashing, ensuring a watertight seal and preventing leaks.
4. Leak repairs: Self-adhesive tapes are often used as a temporary or emergency solution to repair leaks in the roof. They can provide immediate protection until a permanent repair can be carried out.
5. Temporary repairs: In situations where a more extensive roof repair or replacement is required, self-adhesive tapes can serve as a temporary measure to prevent further damage or water intrusion.

Yes, tape can be an effective alternative to traditional mechanical fasteners in certain automotive applications. While mechanical fasteners like screws, bolts, and rivets have been traditionally used for joining and securing automotive components, tape offers several advantages that make it a viable alternative:

1. Weight reduction: Tape is typically lighter than mechanical fasteners, making it advantageous in industries where weight reduction is a priority, such as the automotive industry. This can contribute to improved fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.
2. Enhanced aesthetics: Tape can provide a cleaner and more streamlined appearance compared to visible mechanical fasteners. It allows for smooth surfaces without the need for drilled holes or protruding fastener heads, which can improve the vehicle's overall design and aesthetics.
3. Vibration damping and noise reduction: Tape has the ability to absorb and dampen vibrations, reducing noise and enhancing the overall comfort of the vehicle. This can be particularly useful in areas where vibration and noise need to be minimized, such as attaching interior trims or insulating panels.
4. Sealant properties: Certain tapes are designed to provide sealing capabilities, effectively preventing the ingress of water, dust, or other contaminants. This can be beneficial in automotive applications where maintaining a watertight or dustproof seal is important, such as in weatherstripping or sealing electrical connections.
5. Improved manufacturing efficiency: Tape can simplify the assembly process by reducing the number of required components and the associated labor. It can be applied quickly and easily, reducing assembly time and improving manufacturing efficiency.

However, it's important to note that tape may not be suitable for all automotive applications. Factors such as load-bearing requirements, extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, and long-term durability need to be carefully considered when Determining whether tape is a suitable alternative to mechanical fasteners in a specific automotive application.

When selecting tape for specific automotive applications, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Bonding Surface: Understand the characteristics of the surfaces that need to be bonded. Consider factors such as the material (plastic, metal, glass, etc.), surface texture, cleanliness, and any surface treatments or coatings present. Different tapes may be better suited for bonding to specific surface types.
2. Application Environment: Assess the environmental conditions the tape will be exposed to, including temperature variations, humidity, UV exposure, chemicals, oils, and vibrations. Choose a tape that can withstand specific environmental conditions without losing its adhesive strength or physical properties.
3. Load Requirements: Determine the load-bearing requirements of the application. Consider factors such as the weight of the components being joined, the forces acting upon them (vibration, impact, etc.), and the expected service life. Select a tape with sufficient strength and durability to handle the anticipated loads.
4. Compatibility: Ensure compatibility between the tape and other materials or substrates it will come into contact with. Consider any potential chemical reactions or incompatibilities that may affect the tape's performance or the integrity of the bonded surfaces.
5. Application Method: Consider the application process and equipment available. Some tapes require specific application techniques, such as heat activation or pressure-sensitive application. Ensure that the chosen tape can be easily applied using the available resources.
6. Regulatory Compliance: In the automotive industry, it's essential to consider any relevant regulations or industry standards that apply to the specific application. Ensure that the selected tape meets the necessary requirements for safety, flame resistance, emissions, or other relevant standards.
7. Longevity and Service Life: Evaluate the expected lifespan of the application and choose a tape that can provide the required durability and longevity. Consider factors such as aging resistance, resistance to environmental factors, and long-term adhesion properties.
8. Aesthetics: Depending on the application, aesthetics may be a consideration. Determine if the tape needs to be visible or hidden, and select a tape that meets the desired visual requirements, such as color, transparency, or texture.
9. Testing and Validation: We value thorough application testing and validation of the suggested tape in the specific application conditions before full-scale implementation. This can help ensure that the tape performs as expected and meets the necessary performance requirements.

Tamper packaging is important in the supply chain of spare parts for the automotive industry for several reasons:

1. Product Integrity: Tamper packaging helps ensure the integrity of spare parts throughout the supply chain. It provides a physical barrier that protects the parts from unauthorized access, tampering, or contamination. This is crucial for maintaining the quality and functionality of automotive spare parts, as any tampering or contamination can compromise their performance and safety.
2. Counterfeit Prevention: The automotive industry is susceptible to counterfeit spare parts, which can pose serious safety risks and cause significant damage to vehicles. Tamper packaging includes features such as holograms, seals, or unique identifiers that can help verify the authenticity of the parts. By incorporating these anti-counterfeiting measures, tamper packaging helps prevent the distribution of counterfeit parts, ensuring that only genuine, reliable products reach the end customers.
3. Traceability and Chain of Custody: Tamper packaging can include tracking mechanisms such as barcodes, RFID tags, or serial numbers. These features enable efficient tracking and monitoring of spare parts throughout the supply chain. By maintaining a clear chain of custody, tamper packaging helps c the origin, location, and movement of parts, which is essential for quality control, warranty claims, and product recalls if necessary.
4. Regulatory Compliance: The automotive industry is subject to various regulations and standards regarding product safety, quality, and traceability. Tamper packaging can help companies comply with these regulations by providing s of product integrity and adherence to required procedures. It demonstrates a commitment to quality control and ensures that the spare parts meet the necessary standards.
5. Customer Confidence: Tamper packaging plays a crucial role in building customer confidence and trust. By visibly demonstrating that a company takes the security and quality of its spare parts seriously, it reassures customers that they are purchasing genuine and reliable products. This can enhance brand reputation, customer satisfaction, and loyalty.

The use of suitable double-sided tape can make the difference when closing your bubble bag, PE, or cardboard box in ensuring its valuable content.

Often we get a call for box sealing tape, a packaging tape. As a Dutch manufacturer, we are not able to compete with these types of tapes. What we can do, and do well, is manufacturing packaging tapes that need a bit extra! So how do you know if your application is better off with more quality?

Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

1. Application: Determine the specific purpose for which you need packaging tape. Are you sealing boxes for shipping, packaging products for storage, or bundling items together? Different applications may require different types of tape.
2. Weight and size of the package: Consider the weight and size of the packages you will be sealing. Heavier or larger packages may require stronger and wither tape to ensure secure sealing and prevent package failure during transit.
3. Adhesive type: Packaging tapes come with different adhesive formulations, such as acrylic, hot melt, or natural rubber. Each type offers different characteristics in terms of adhesion strength, temperature resistance, and application surface compatibility. Consider the conditions in which the package will be handled and transported to select an adhesive that suits your needs.
4. Tape strength: Some packaging tapes are reinforced with materials like fiberglass or polyester to provide extra strength and durability. If you are shipping heavy items or need added security, consider tapes with reinforced strength for optimal performance.
5. Surface compatibility: Consider the surfaces you will be applying the tape to. Different tapes may adhere better to specific surfaces, such as cardboard, plastic, or metal. Ensure that the tape you choose is compatible with the surface materials to achieve strong adhesion.
6. Environmental factors: If your packages will be exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or UV radiation, look for tapes that offer resistance to these environmental conditions. Certain tapes are designed to withstand harsh environments and maintain their adhesion properties.
7. Dispensing method: Consider the type of tape dispenser or applicator you will be using. Some tapes are specifically designed for manual application, while others are optimized for use with tape dispensers. Ensure compatibility between the tape and your preferred dispensing method.
8. Budget: Evaluate your budget and consider the cost-effectiveness of the tape. While it’s important to select a tape that meets your requirements, be mindful of cost considerations as well.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down the options and choose a packaging tape that best fits your specific needs. If in doubt, consult with our experts!

Determining the quality of packaging tape involves assessing several key factors. Here are some indicators to help you determine if the tape you’re using is of high quality:

1. Adhesive strength: High-quality packaging tape should have a strong adhesive that provides excellent bonding to various surfaces. It should adhere securely and maintain its adhesion over time, even in different environmental conditions.
2. Durability: The tape should be resistant to tearing, splitting, or stretching when applied and during handling or transportation. It should maintain its integrity and not easily break or fray.
3. Thickness and tensile strength: Check the thickness and tensile strength specifications of the tape. Thicker tapes generally offer higher strength and durability, providing better resistance to punctures or damage.
4. Compatibility with surfaces: The tape should adhere well to a variety of surfaces commonly used for packaging, such as cardboard, plastic, or metal. It should not easily peel off or lose adhesion when applied to these surfaces.
5. Temperature resistance: Consider the temperature range the tape can withstand. High-quality tapes are designed to maintain their adhesive properties and structural integrity even in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.
6. Moisture resistance: Packaging tapes may need to withstand moisture or humidity during storage or transportation. Look for tapes that are specifically designed to resist moisture and maintain their adhesive strength in such conditions.
7. Certifications and standards: Check if the packaging tape meets industry standards or certifications for quality and performance, such as those provided by recognized organizations or regulatory bodies.

By assessing these factors, you can make a more informed judgment about the quality of the packaging tape you’re using. It’s always recommended to do intensive testing before deciding.

Applying pressure to a tape is done to ensure proper adhesion and bonding between the tape and the surface it is being applied to. The pressure helps to create a strong and secure bond, improving the tape's effectiveness in various applications. Here are a few reasons why pressure is applied to tape:

1. Adhesive activation: Many tapes have a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) that requires the application of pressure to activate and enhance its bonding properties. The pressure helps the adhesive flow into the microscopic irregularities of the surface, creating better contact and increasing the adhesive's grip.
2. Improved contact: Pressure helps ensure that the entire adhesive surface of the tape comes into contact with the surface it is being applied to. This eliminates gaps and enhances the bond strength. Without sufficient pressure, there may be areas of poor adhesion or weak bonds, reducing the tape's effectiveness.
3. Conformity to irregular surfaces: Some surfaces may have irregularities, such as bumps, curves, or textures, which can hinder proper tape adhesion. Applying pressure helps the tape conform to these irregular surfaces, allowing it to make better contact and bond securely.

It's important to note that different types of tapes may require varying levels of pressure for optimal adhesion.

Cohesion is the property that allows the tape to maintain its adhesive strength over time. It is the force that holds the adhesive layer together, allowing the tape to remain intact and functional. Cohesion helps the tape resist shear forces, which are perpendicular forces that can cause the tape to slide or peel off. A strong cohesion ensures that the tape remains firmly bonded, even when subjected to shear stress. Without strong adhesion, the tape is at risk of sliding down the substrate or deterioration. But be careful adhesion and cohesion need to be in balance!

Adhesion and cohesion play important roles in the manufacturing of tape. Adhesion refers to the bonding or sticking of the tape to a surface, while cohesion refers to the internal bonding between the molecules of the tape itself. Achieving the perfect balance between adhesion and cohesion is crucial for tape manufacturing for the following reasons:

1. Bonding strength: Adhesion is essential to ensure that the tape securely sticks to a surface and does not detach easily. It determines the strength of the bond between the tape and the substrate. If the adhesion is too weak, the tape may not stick effectively, leading to inadequate performance. On the other hand, excessive adhesion can make the tape difficult to remove or cause damage to the surface when removed.
2. Tape integrity: Cohesion is important to maintain the structural integrity of the tape itself. Cohesion ensures that the tape remains intact and does not fall apart during application or use. If the cohesion is too weak, the tape may break or delaminate, rendering it useless. Conversely, excessive cohesion can make the tape excessively sticky or result in a gummy residue when removed.
3. Versatility: Different applications may require different levels of adhesion and cohesion. For instance, a strong adhesive may be needed for heavy-duty applications, while a less aggressive adhesive might be suitable for temporary applications. By balancing adhesion and cohesion, we create tapes with a range of properties to meet your application requirements.

To achieve the desired balance, we consider factors such as adhesive formulation, coating techniques, backing materials, and surface treatments. Extensive (lab) testing, application testing, and quality control processes are employed to ensure that the tape meets the required specifications for adhesion and cohesion before it is made available for use.

One of the most important components of foam tape is the density of the foam. The higher the density, the stronger the foam. In some (critical) applications low density can create a serious hazard. Obviously, the higher the density, the higher the price. Important to compare apples with apples. The density of foam is typically expressed in kg/m3 to indicate the mass of foam material per unit volume.

For example, if foam has a density of 30 kg/m3, it means that within every cubic meter of foam, there is a mass of 30 kilograms of foam material. Lower-density foams are typically lighter and more buoyant, while higher-density foams are heavier and more compact.

Higher density in foam can be important for various reasons depending on the application. Here are a few reasons why higher-density foam may be desirable:

1. Increased durability: Higher-density foam tends to be more durable and resilient. It can withstand more repeated use and compression without losing its shape or structural integrity. For instance, double-sided foam tapes used in facades of buildings.
2. Enhanced support: Foam with higher density often provides better support and firmness. It can offer more significant resistance against pressure and distribute weight more evenly, resulting in improved comfort and stability.
3. Improved insulation: Foam with higher density has better thermal and sound insulation properties. The denser structure of the foam helps to minimize the transfer of heat and sound waves, making it useful in applications like insulation for buildings, acoustic panels, or packaging materials, but also automotive applications where noise reduction is the goal.