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Aluminium foil tape has become an indispensable tool for construction, HVAC, electronics, automotive, and a range of industries. Depending on the application, it is also available in different thicknesses, sizes, and grades. As a result, it’s an adhesive that can be used for a wide range of purposes.
Whether you’re new to aluminium foil tape or thinking about using it for an upcoming project, this blog will be your ultimate guide to the features, how to use it, and why it is invaluable for a variety of applications.
Composition and Properties of Aluminium Foil Tape
Are you new to the applications of aluminium foil tape? In terms of its construction, this tape is made from a thin aluminium foil, which is then coated in an acrylic adhesive and backed with a release paper. Let's look at some of its many key characteristics:
- Durable. With a strong adhesive backing, the sturdy foil material creates a long-lasting bond.
- Resistant to heat. Aluminium foil tape can handle high temperatures and is resistant to flames and UV radiation.
- Resistant to moisture. Aluminium foil tape repels water and humidity, so it is perfect for damp environments.
- Electromagnetic shielding. Able to block electromagnetic interference (EMI), aluminium foil tape supports sensitive electronic applications.
Types of Aluminium Foil Tape
Standard is the most common type of foil. It can be used for stove waterproofing, sealing pipes, or HVAC duct repair.
Flame retardant aluminium foil tape. The base is aluminium foil with silicone release paper and is used in insulation and to block heat sources.
With lining paper for electromagnetic shielding, such as for radios, mobile phones, or computers.
Glass fibre cloth is made of aluminium foil tape reinforced with a fibreglass backing. Its high tensile strength and reflective surface protect cables and other sensitive components against radiant heat.
Reinforced 2-way Foil Tape
The Reinforced 2-way Foil Tape is laminated with a 2-way polyethylene mesh. Protected by an easy-peel release liner, it is coated with a high-strength solvent-based aggressive acrylic adhesive.
Features include superior initial tack and permanent bonding, high performance in hot or cold weather, ageing resistance, excellent peel adhesions, and is useful for sealing insulation joints and seams against moisture and vapour.
Reinforced 3-way 60 Foil Tape
The Reinforced 3-way 60 Foil Tape is a 60gsm aluminium foil laminated with a 3-way polyethylene mesh and is highly flexible. It applies easily and is hand-tearable, has great peel adhesion, conforms well to irregular surfaces, and performs well in heat or cold.
VTACK Premium Rubber Reinforced Aluminium Foil Tape
The main difference with the VTACK Premium Rubber Reinforced tape is being designed for a permanent vapour seal for reinforced aluminium faced fibreglass, mineral wool thermal insulation, fibrous and sheet metal ducts, and FSK systems.
This Foil-PE Mesh backing offers an excellent reflection of heat and sunlight!
General Types of Tape
- Aluminium foil tape. With excellent light reflection and heat resistance properties, aluminium foil tape is the most commonly used for HVAC ductwork, insulation, and sealing seams in metal buildings.
- Copper foil tape. Offering electrical conductivity and EMI shielding, this is a popular choice for electronics and electrical applications.
- Lead foil tape. Often used for radiation shielding, lead foil tape is high in density and can block X-rays and gamma rays.
Aluminium Foil Tape: Range of Applications
HVAC Project Insulation
Quickly and easily sealing leaks in heating and cooling system ducts (materials like fibreglass or foam board) it maintains the insulation barrier (thermal conductivity) reducing the chance of heat transfer and energy consumption.
Professional HVAC installers and DIY'ers use foil tape to seal ducts due to seams being a weak point in duct systems. Taping them makes them less likely to fall apart and degrade.
Preventing cooled or heated air from escaping, this foil makes many systems work better and saves you money. Fix damaged insulation cables by wrapping them in foil tape, as it stops moisture from getting in the way of insulation.
If applying aluminium foil tape to HVAC systems, make sure all surfaces are clean and dry for adhesion.
Pipe Wrapping
Employed to wrap and seal pipes, aluminium foil tape offers protection against corrosion, moisture resistance, and fluctuations in temperature.
From industrial piping to plumbing systems, this specialised tape prevents leaks and extends the lifespan of pipes for both residential and commercial properties.
Packaging
Aluminium tape is so durable, it has been used for over 50 years to keep packages secure. Protecting shipped items from temperature changes, moisture, vermin, and precipitation, this tape is ideal for packages shipped long distances.
Retaining its adhesive seal for long periods, aluminium is recommended for items sensitive to moisture or heat.
Electrical Applications
Working with electricity is always risky! Electrical cables that are poorly installed can cause fires and shock you if you touch them. Coating electric cables s safer as the rape is covered with polymer. Temperature-resistant foil tape doesn't turn brittle in the cold or bend in extreme heat, and it is completely flame-resistant.
Crucial in electrical applications, aluminium aluminium tapes play a role in shielding and grounding, protecting electromagnetic components from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). You can expect electrical systems to perform without disruptions.
Construction Projects
Aluminium tape adheres to fibreglass, plastics, mineral thermal wood insulation, and other materials used in the field of construction.
Creating this secure, protective seal, even when applied to uneven surfaces, means that it is completely safe to use to repair roofing, guttering, or anything regularly exposed to rainfall.
Aluminium Foil Tapes for Refrigeration Systems
How can aluminium improve the manufacturing process and increase the thermal insulation in refrigerators?
According to this report, there are two condensers used for small to medium domestic refrigerators. The first type has condenser tubes with welded wire located outside of the cabinet (external condenser), whereas the second type has condenser tubes attached to the inner surface of the outer wall, also called a "skin condenser".
Aluminium tapes have been used to attach tubes, replace the welded clamps, optimise the thermal transfer, and cover 100% of the tube, avoiding PU and entering between the tube and refrigerator wall.
In refrigeration, metal foil tapes are used to attach channels, tubes, or coils, expanding the area of thermal exchange. When coils are applied, the thermal efficiency is increased because the system works as a secondary evaporator.
How To Use Aluminium Foil Tapes?
You may already have experience using aluminium foil tape, but it's always a good idea to refresh what you know with some effective tips. Let's take a look.
Prepare the surface
Before applying any aluminium tape, the surface must be prepared. Make sure to clean the surface (dirt, dust, or grease), as this can prevent adhesion. Also ensure the surface is dry enough to stop moisture from affecting the tape's performance.
Proper application
Measure and cut the length of the tape needed and cut with a sharp utility knife. Smoothly and evenly apply aluminium foil tape by peeling off a small section of the protective backing and carefully aligning the tape with the surface. Press the tape slowly onto the surface to create a secure seal.
Overlapping seams
It is recommended to overlap the tape slightly when sealing seams or joints with aluminium foil tape. A tight and leak-proof seal prevents air or moisture from entering the seam. It's a good idea to apply pressure along the overlapped area for a stronger bond.
- Press firmly. Once applying your aluminium foil tape, press it firmly onto the surface to improve adhesion. Removing any air bubbles makes the seal long-lasting.
- Trim excess. After the aluminium foil tape has been applied, trim any excess with scissors. Your project will look a lot more professional, and also prevent the tape from peeling or becoming damaged.
A versatile, valuable tool for sealing ducts, insulating pipes, and repairing HVAC systems, you can enhance your repair or DIY projects and achieve a quality result.
So, why should you choose tape made from aluminium as opposed to other adhesives? Not all materials will work well with your projects.
Aluminium holds up over time, unlike other pressure-sensitive tapes with a rubber adhesive. Foil tapes have more cohesion thermal stability, and handle UV light exposure. It also isn't as chaotic as plastic. Aluminium foil doesn't need a lot of equipment to seal holes in a furnace or AC without shrinking or failing like duct tape.
Aluminium adhesive is acrylic (many tapes use rubber adhesive) which can break down under extreme temperatures, vulnerable to UV light, flame-resistant, and overall responds better to the weather. Foil tapes can be rated for temperatures -30 to 120 depending on what you need them for!
Repelling harsh chemicals and moisture, aluminium foil tape is resistant where it is corrosive to other types of tape. Aluminium is appropriate for the marine industries and applications in wet, humid environments.
Finally, aluminium tape requires a lot less energy to produce and is an eco-friendly adhesive.
Whether you're needing automotive repairs, need supplies in the construction industry, or something specific to your project, MSTOR supports industrial applications, marine, construction, common applications and a range of surfaces and quality tape.
Aluminium Foil Tape in Australia: Contact MSTOR!
With years of experience, MSTOR has evolved into a leading Australian supplier known for its commitment to quality, personalised service, and reliable products.
Do you need support with tape slitting, foam cutting, or laminating? MSTOR supplies and provides services to insulation, automotive, construction, packaging, medical, and many more industries. We have a range of quality materials and products available, including foam, tapes, and plastic.
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