How often do you use tape? When we seal packages, decorate surfaces or fix torn papers, we need the right adhesive for the job — but that's not all it can do. From using painter's tape to get professional, crisp lines to making duct tape wallets, we can use this versatile material for just about anything.

 

We know that most people don't think about how they use tape as often as we do. That's why we're here to share four common uses of tape that you didn't know existed!

 

 

1) Manufacturing Cell Phones

 

What do you think is inside your phone? Most people might say a battery, a SIM card and some wires, but that's where the average user's knowledge stops. Would you guess that your cell phone contains tape?

During the manufacturing process, companies use tape to:

 

- Mount components: Your phone's lenses, battery, back cover and other components may be mounted with tape. As a sealing and cushioning material, tape also plays a large role in your phone's structure. 

 

- Provide functional protection: Conductive adhesives shield and ground electrical components, and other varieties of tape protect parts from dust and light. Multiple types of adhesives are used to keep the most sensitive parts of your phone safe from harm. 

- Create a clear display: OLED tape mounts barrier films and glass. Optically clear adhesives (OCAs) can laminate touch panels and displays without affecting clarity or reacting to UV light. Tape is an essential part of a clear display and functional touch panels. 

 

2) Protection and Repairs for Buildings

 

Have you ever noticed bold paint colors fading in the sun or plastic siding cracking in freezing temperatures? Sunlight, harsh weather conditions, and results of wear and tear can affect a building's surfaces. When a building needs protection against these issues, professional masking tapes can cover cracks and prevent further damage. Some features of these adhesives include their:

 

- High strength of adhesion.
- Waterproofing or water resistance.
- UV resistance.
- Light absorbency.
- Weatherproofing or weather resistance.
- Tolerance for a wide temperature range.

 

3) Plate Mounting

 

One form of printing, called flexographic printing, is similar to the old-fashioned letterpress. Manufacturers use flexography to print on materials like paper, plastic, cellophane and metallic films. To print on those materials, the press uses a flexible relief plate. Plate mounting tapes have backings that meet flexo printing needs. Common backings for plate mounting tapes include cloth, film and foam.

 

Cushioning foams even make it possible to use flexo printing on corrugated materials. 

 

4) Affix Carpets and Place Floor Covers

 

Whether you're updating your home with brand-new carpets or protecting your floor from paint, dust and other renovation-related hazards, double-sided flooring tape is the perfect addition to your project. Permanent and temporary adhesive tapes are available. 

 

Double-sided flooring tape also comes in handy when your carpet peels up along the edges. Just use the adhesive to keep problem areas stuck firmly to the floor, and voila! No more tripping over that loose corner in your living room.

 

Find a tesa® Tape for Any Application

 

Tape is an excellent tool for all kinds of projects. How will you use it next? 

 

At tesa, we carry tape for industrial, consumer and professional use. Browse our adhesive tape selection by industry or application to find what you need, and if you still have questions, you can get in touch with us online or request a sample.