Product guide: Masking tape and different types of paper tape
3min read
09/03/2021
Tape is an important part of packaging, and there are different types of tape for different uses. In this blog post we take a look at some different types of tape.
What is masking tape?
Masking tape, also called painting tape, is a lightly glued specialty paper tape that is easy to tear off and can be applied and removed without leaving marks or damage. The main area of use for masking tape is during painting, where the tape is used to cover areas that are not to be painted. It is also common to use masking tape as labels to mark small products.
Since the tape adheres to most surfaces, from metal to plastic, and can be removed without damaging the substrate, it is suitable for marking in offices and warehouses. The tape is also water and heat resistant, making it suitable for marking products that are transported abroad. RAJA offers masking tape in different sizes and with different qualities, from ordinary masking tape to industrial masking tape that can withstand heat up to +80°C.
Masking tape can for example be used to make labels (image: Chiara Torre, Flikr)
What is the difference between masking tape and paper tape?
Masking tape can be used for a variety of tasks, but it is often not strong enough to seal boxes and cartons. For that, you need regular packing tape. Packing tape made of paper or plastic ensures that cartons are properly sealed, as it has much stronger adhesive than masking tape, is non-stick and works well in humid conditions. Since the adhesive is stronger, it also means that packing tape, unlike masking tape, leaves marks when removed. Therefore, this tape can be used as a security seal to show that cartons have not been tampered with or opened during transport.
Paper tape – environmentally friendly and cost-effective
RAJA has a number of different types of packaging tape in its range, and paper tape is among the most popular. The clear advantage of paper tape over plastic tape is the environmental aspect, since paper tape can be recycled. Paper tape also adheres better than plastic tape to recycled sheets, because these sheets often contain a certain amount of plastic. This can make it difficult for plastic tape to adhere. In fact, paper tape is also more cost-effective than plastic tape in many cases. Paper tape is strong and adheres immediately, which leads to reduced consumption of tape compared to plastic tape, which is often overused in several layers.
What is the difference between regular and rubberised paper tape?
Plain paper tape is self-adhesive and can be applied quickly and cleanly directly to the carton using a tape dispenser. For an even more secure and long-lasting seal, gummed paper tape is an ideal solution. This tape made from pure kraft paper has an effective, odourless adhesive that adheres extra well to corrugated board, paper and cardboard. The tape is applied using a special dispenser that moistens and cuts the tape into strips. Attempts to remove the tape will result in obvious damage to the carton. This discourages wastage during transport. Gummed paper tape is resistant to moisture and temperature variations and is well suited for export. The tape is recyclable and does not need to be removed from the carton during source separation.
Electronic tape dispenser that moistens and cuts the tape to strips.
Need help choosing tape?
In RAJA’s online shop you can find the whole range of packaging tape, and you can also design your own packaging tape with our online tool. If you need help, please contact our packaging specialists on 22 51 40 00 (8-16) or post@rajapack.no.
