Tapes / Specialist Tapes / Double Sided

Tapes / Specialist Tapes / Double Sided

Strong double sided tape for a variety of applications.
Available in easy tear tissue or tough polypropylene.
Ideal for bonding plastic, metal, paper, wood or glass.
Fingerlift has no adhesive on the edges making it very easy to remove the backing tape.

Strong double sided tape for a variety of applications.Available in easy tear tissue or tough polypropylene.Ideal for bonding plastic, metal, paper, wood or glass.Fingerlift has no adhesive on the edges making it very easy to remove the backing tape.

 

Tapes / Specialist Tapes / Double Sided

 

Order Code Size W x L Type Pack Quantity
13DS9P 9mm x 50m PP 132
13DS12P 12mm x 50m PP 96
13DS19P 19mm x 50m PP 60
13DS25P 25mm x 50m PP 48
13DS50P 50mm x 50m PP 24
13DS9G 9mm x 50m Tissue 132
13DS12T 12mm x 50m Tissue 96
13DS19T 19mm x 50m Tissue 60
13DS24T 25mm x 50m Tissue 48
13DS50G 50mm x 50m Tissue 24
13FL6T 6/12mm x 50m Tissue finger lift 60
13FL12T 12/18mm x 50m Tissue finger lift 40
13FL18T 18/24mm x 50m Tissue finger lift 30


Double Sided Tape for Packaging, Assembly & Finishing

Double sided tape is a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape coated on both sides, designed to bond two surfaces together without visible fixings. In packaging and light assembly work it is commonly used for mounting, splicing, sealing, point-of-sale display build, print finishing, and general fabrication where a clean, flush bond is preferred. The products in this collection include double sided tapes supplied on 50m rolls in a range of widths, with options such as tissue carrier and polypropylene (PP) carrier constructions, plus easy-release liners and fingerlift features for faster application.

Because double sided tapes are selected by construction (carrier), adhesive type, liner, and thickness, choosing the right tape is mainly about matching the surfaces being bonded (paper/card, plastics, metals, glass, wood), the stresses involved (shear vs peel), and the environment (temperature, humidity, UV exposure). The guide below explains the main tape types in this category and how to select and apply them for consistent results.

Double Sided Tape — Helpful Guide

1) Polypropylene (PP) double sided tape

PP double sided tape uses a polypropylene film carrier. Film carriers are typically chosen when you want a tougher, more dimensionally stable tape that resists tearing and can be easier to handle during application. PP constructions are often used for general bonding and mounting tasks where a clean, consistent thickness helps with alignment and where the tape may be exposed to light handling during assembly.

  • 13DS9P (9mm x 50m, PP): Narrow width for light bonding, splicing, and small components where minimal tape visibility is preferred.
  • 13DS12P (12mm x 50m, PP): A versatile width for general packaging and assembly tasks, balancing coverage and neatness.
  • 13DS19P (19mm x 50m, PP): Useful for mounting and joining where a wider bond line improves stability and reduces edge lift.
  • 13DS25P (25mm x 50m, PP): Wider format for larger panels, display build, and bonding where higher contact area is needed.
  • 13DS50P (50mm x 50m, PP): Broad coverage for laminating, mounting sheets, and applications where fast laydown is important.

When bonding plastics with PP-based double sided tapes, surface energy matters. Many common plastics (such as polypropylene and polyethylene) are low surface energy and can be challenging for standard adhesives. If you are bonding low surface energy plastics, test first and consider whether a specialist adhesive system is required. For higher surface energy plastics (such as acrylic, polycarbonate, ABS, PVC), adhesion is typically more straightforward when surfaces are clean and dry.

2) Tissue double sided tape

Tissue double sided tape uses a thin tissue carrier. Tissue carriers are often selected for neat, conformable bonds, especially on paper, card, and other slightly textured surfaces. They can be helpful in print finishing and packaging work where you want the tape to follow minor surface irregularities and keep the bond line discreet.

  • 13DS9G (9mm x 50m, Tissue): Fine width for lightweight bonding, envelope and carton work, and small-format finishing tasks.
  • 13DS12G (12mm x 50m, Tissue): General-purpose width for paper/card bonding and light assembly where a thin, conformable tape is preferred.
  • 13DS19G (19mm x 50m, Tissue): Wider bond line for mounting and joining paperboard, foamboard facings, and display components.
  • 13DS25G (25mm x 50m, Tissue): Useful for larger panels and laminating tasks where even contact and a smooth finish matter.
  • 13DS50G (50mm x 50m, Tissue): Broad format for fast coverage in laminating and mounting applications.

Tissue tapes are commonly used where a thin bond line is important. They can also be easier to tear by hand in some constructions, which can speed up repetitive tasks. However, because they are thin, they may not bridge gaps well; if your surfaces are uneven or you need to compensate for tolerances, a thicker foam tape may be more suitable (outside the scope of this collection).

3) Fingerlift / easy-release liner options

Some double sided tapes are supplied with a liner designed to be removed quickly. A fingerlift liner typically has a non-adhesive edge or an extended liner that creates a tab, making it easier to start peeling the liner without picking at the adhesive. This is particularly helpful for narrow widths, high-throughput packing benches, and applications where operators wear gloves.

Fingerlift features can reduce handling time and help keep the adhesive clean by minimising direct contact. If you are applying tape to dusty materials (such as some papers, boards, or unfinished wood), the ability to remove the liner cleanly and quickly can also reduce contamination during assembly.

Typical Uses & Practical Examples

Packaging and carton assembly

Double sided tape is often used to close cartons, attach inserts, fix corner protectors, or assemble presentation packaging where a clean exterior is required. Tissue constructions are commonly chosen for paper and board components, while PP constructions can be useful where a tougher carrier improves handling during assembly.

Print finishing and display build

In print finishing, double sided tape can be used for mounting prints, creating folds, attaching pockets, and building point-of-sale displays. Narrow widths help with discreet bonds, while wider widths can improve stability on larger panels. For best results, apply tape with firm pressure and allow time for the adhesive to wet out on the substrate.

General bonding to plastic, metal, glass, and wood

For smooth, non-porous surfaces such as metal and glass, surface preparation is critical. Remove oils and residues, ensure the surface is dry, and apply firm pressure. For wood, consider whether the surface is sealed or porous; porous or dusty surfaces can reduce adhesion and may require sealing, priming, or a different bonding method depending on the load and environment.

Case Study: Improving Assembly Speed with Fingerlift Liners

A small packing operation assembling presentation packs needed a faster way to mount printed card components onto a backing board. Operators were spending time trying to lift the liner edge on narrow double sided tape, and occasional fingernail contact contaminated the adhesive, leading to rework.

By switching to a double sided tape option with an easy-start liner (fingerlift style), the team reduced liner-removal time per unit and improved consistency. The key process changes were simple: pre-cut tape lengths, apply to the first substrate with firm pressure, peel the liner using the non-adhesive edge, then bond the second substrate using a roller to ensure full contact. The result was fewer rejects and more predictable bond performance.

How to Choose the Correct Double Sided Tape

Step 1: Identify the substrates

  • Paper and card: Tissue tapes are often a good starting point due to conformability and a neat bond line.
  • Plastics: Determine whether the plastic is low surface energy (harder to bond) or higher surface energy (easier). Test on the exact material and finish.
  • Metal and glass: Cleanliness is crucial; remove oils and fingerprints before bonding.
  • Wood: Sealed wood bonds more reliably than dusty or porous surfaces; consider surface preparation.

Step 2: Decide what matters most (thin bond line vs handling strength)

  • Thin, discreet bond: Tissue carrier tapes are commonly used where appearance and low profile matter.
  • Tougher handling: PP carrier tapes can be easier to handle and may resist tearing during application.

Step 3: Choose width and coverage

Wider tape increases contact area, which can improve resistance to peel and reduce edge lift. Narrow tape can be ideal for small parts and neat finishing. As a practical rule, choose the widest tape that fits the bond area without creating visible edges or interfering with folds and creases.

Step 4: Consider the environment

Temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight can affect adhesive performance. If the bonded item will be stored in a hot warehouse, shipped in cold conditions, or used outdoors, test under realistic conditions. Many pressure-sensitive adhesives build strength over time; allow adequate dwell time before applying load.

Step 5: Plan the application method

  • Manual application: Fingerlift liners can speed up liner removal and reduce contamination.
  • Repetitive work: Consider jigs, pre-cut lengths, or a roller to standardise pressure.
  • Alignment: Use light tack positioning where possible, then apply full pressure once aligned.

Application Tips for Reliable Bonds

  • Clean first: Dust, oil, and release agents are common causes of bond failure. Clean and dry surfaces before applying tape.
  • Use firm pressure: Pressure-sensitive adhesives need pressure to wet out. A hand roller can improve consistency.
  • Avoid touching the adhesive: Skin oils reduce adhesion. Handle by the liner and edges.
  • Allow dwell time: Bond strength often increases over several hours. If possible, avoid heavy loads immediately after bonding.
  • Test on real materials: Coatings, inks, and surface textures vary. A quick peel test on production materials can prevent issues later.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Edge lift

Edge lift can occur if the tape is too narrow, the surface is contaminated, or the substrate is under tension. Try increasing tape width, improving cleaning, and applying more pressure. On textured surfaces, a more conformable construction may help.

Poor adhesion to plastics

Some plastics are difficult to bond due to low surface energy. If adhesion is inconsistent, confirm the plastic type and test alternative adhesive systems. Light abrasion or priming may help in some cases, but always test to avoid damaging the surface.

Bond failure in cold or heat

Adhesives can become less tacky at low temperatures and soften at high temperatures. Apply tape within the recommended temperature range where possible, and test finished assemblies under expected storage and transport conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tissue and polypropylene (PP) double sided tape?

Tissue tapes use a thin, conformable carrier that suits paper, card, and light finishing where a discreet bond line is needed. PP tapes use a film carrier that is tougher to handle and can be more dimensionally stable during application and assembly.

What does “fingerlift” mean on double sided tape?

Fingerlift refers to a liner design that is easier to start peeling, often by providing a non-adhesive edge or a small tab. It helps operators remove the liner quickly, reduces fumbling on narrow widths, and can minimise adhesive contamination from handling.

How do I choose the right tape width for my application?

Select a width that provides enough contact area to resist peeling and edge lift without interfering with folds, cut lines, or visible edges. Narrow widths suit small parts and neat finishing, while wider widths improve stability on larger panels and mounts.

Will double sided tape bond to plastic, metal, glass, and wood?

It can, but results depend on surface condition and material type. Clean, dry metal and glass usually bond well. Plastics vary widely; low surface energy plastics can be difficult. Wood may be porous or dusty, so sealing or preparation may be needed.

Why does my bond feel weak right after applying the tape?

Pressure-sensitive adhesives often build strength over time as they wet out and conform to the surface. Apply firm pressure during assembly and allow dwell time before applying load. Temperature also matters; very cold conditions can reduce initial tack and bonding.