Plastic vs Paper Packaging Tape: Which to use?
There are a variety of different types of packaging tape with the most common being plastic and paper. Despite these two tapes being quite similar in purpose in sealing, wrapping and bundling items for storage and shipment, they can vary quite differently in their applications. This is because each tape contains different properties giving one an advantage and disadvantage over the other in desired attributes such as strength, costs, ease of use and more.
For you to maximize your packaging results in security, cost and overall efficiency, it is imperative that you learn the differences between the two tapes. By reading this blog you will learn the fundamentals of plastic and paper packaging tape to help you make more informed decisions on handling your products and packages.
What is Plastic Packaging Tape?
Plastic packaging tape, also known as clear tape, is a pressure sensitive tape that is used to package lightweight and inexpensive items. This tape is durable, dust and dirt resistant, cost efficient, quick and easy to use, which makes it the most common choice for a variety of packaging applications.
The Different Types of Plastic Packaging Tape
Plastic tape has a pressure sensitive adhesive. This requires compression between the adhesive and the package in order to form a bond.
The two most common forms of plastic tape are polypropylene (BOPP) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
BOPP is a pressure sensitive tape that is inexpensive and customizable. This tape is commonly used for lighter applications. PVC is a temperature sensitive tape that is strong, thick, adjustable and makes less noise when applied. This tape is recommended for heavier applications. PVC is much stronger and thicker than BOPP, however it does waste more material, which is why it cost much more to manufacture.
Adhesives used for plastic tape include acrylic, hot melt and rubber.
Acrylic glue is applied through heavy pressure and can withstand high and low temperatures. Typically, this type of glue is used for applications such as long-term storage, outdoor, chemical, inclement weather conditions, lightweight and carton sealing.
Hot melt is applied to a material through a liquid or molten state. This type of glue forms a tensile strength bond. This makes it ideal for applications such as shipping and storage of boxes. Although more aggressive at first, it comes off quicker in high and low temperatures.
Rubber adhesive tapes are made with natural or synthetic rubbers that are combined with oils, resins, and antioxidants. This makes it best for all conditions, but it is far more expensive.
BOPP Tape
PVC Tape
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic Packaging Tape
Plastic tape benefits:
- Readily available
- Can be applied with inexpensive dispenser
- Pressure sensitive, easy to use
- Portable and quicker
Plastic tape disadvantages:
- Less secure than paper tape
- Might have to double tape
- Take longer to break down and are less recyclable than paper
When Should I Use Plastic Tape
Plastic tape is best used for lightweight packaging applications. These tapes are highly customizable which makes them ideal solutions for branding and product identification. Plastic tapes are the most common used tapes due to desired properties, recyclability, features and low costs.
What is Paper Tape?
Paper tape, often referred to as Kraft tape, is made up of paper material with a starch-based adhesive applied on the backside. This tape is popular due to its superior strength and durability, which makes it ideal for heavy and bulk packaging applications. It also is tampered proof, which makes it an ideal choice for security and anti-theft applications.
The Different Types of Paper Tape
Paper tape can vary from one another based on how it is manufactured, typically by the type of paper and the adhesive used. The two most common types of paper tape are water activated and flat back.
Water activated tape (WAT), also known as gummed tape, is a type of tape that forms a bond with material when the adhesive meets water. The bond formed is highly strong and durable which makes it capable of holding its bonds through the most rigorous supply chains. WAT is popular among, food, beverage, electronic, industrial and medical packaging applications. Usually, this tape is applied through a dispenser.
WAT can come reinforced and non-reinforced. Reinforced has fiberglass reinforcements for strength and durability. There is a variety of grades designed for light to heavy weight boxes. Non reinforced does not have fiberglass reinforcements, which makes this best for lighter duty shipping.
Flatback tape is a pressure sensitive paper tape that is designed to be used for heavy and bulk packaging that undergoes inclement weather conditions. Flatback tape can be manufactured in a variety of colors. Usually, this tape is applied by hand or a dispenser.
Water Activated Tape
Flatback Tape
Advantages and Disadvantages of Paper Tape
Benefits of Paper Tape:
- Strong
- Secure and Safe
- Dispenser can cut out exact size pieces
- Usually use less tape
- Recyclable
Disadvantages of Paper Tape:
- Need a dispenser
- Not as practical
- Must use tape in a designated area where dispenser is
When Should I Use Paper Tape
Paper tape should be used when needing a secure seal because it is tampered proof. It is also useful in extreme temperatures and for heavier weighted packaging applications. It is commonly used among a variety of industries including food, health care, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, electronics, jewelry, and security industries.
Where can I purchase plastic or paper tape:
We recommend that you pick a tape that closely aligns with your packaging application. Despite the similarities between plastic and paper packaging tape, they are used in different packaging applications. It is important for you to consider the weight, dimensions, stability, security, strength of box, and shipping methods of your package when selecting a tape.
If you are interested in packaging tape whether that be plastic tape or paper tape for your business, then contact Brown Packaging today.
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