Product guide: masking tape, paper tape and sealing strips

Tape is an important component of packaging and different types of tape have different uses. In today’s blog post we zoom in on different types of tape.

What is masking tape?

Masking tape, also known as painter’s tape, is a lightly adhered special paper tape that is easy to tear off and can be applied and removed without leaving marks or damage. The main use of masking tape is in 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, for labelling small products.

Because the tape adheres to most surfaces, from metal to plastic, and can be removed without damaging the substrate, it is suitable for labelling in offices and warehouses. The tape is also water and heat resistant, making it ideal for labelling products transported abroad. RAJA offers masking tape in different sizes and with different qualities, from standard masking tape to industrial masking tape that can withstand heat up to +80°C.

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 be used for sealing boxes and cartons. For that, you need packing tape. Paper or plastic packing tape ensures that boxes are sealed properly as it has a much stronger adhesive than masking tape and is water-resistant and works well in damp conditions. The stronger adhesive also means that, unlike masking tape, packing tape leaves a mark 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 packing tape in its range and one of the most popular variants is paper tape and sealing strips. The clear advantage of different types of paper tape over plastic tape is the environmental aspect as paper tape is recyclable. Paper tape also adheres better than plastic tape to recycled boxes as these boxes often contain a certain amount of plastic which can make it difficult for plastic tape to adhere effectively. In fact, in many cases, paper tape is more cost-effective than plastic tape. Paper tape is strong and sticks instantly which leads to reduced consumption of tape compared to plastic tape which most people tend to overuse in multiple layers.

What is the difference between paper tape and sealing strips?

Regular paper tape is self-adhesive and can be applied quickly and neatly directly to the box using a tape dispenser. For an even more secure and long-lasting seal, sealing strips made of pure kraft paper with a water-activated adhesive are the ideal solution. The tape is applied using a special device that moistens and trims the tape as it is applied to the carton. Sealing strips are recyclable and do not even need to be separated from the carton during recycling.

Need help choosing tape?

RAJA are specialists in packing tape, packaging and wrapping. On our website, you’ll find everything you need in packaging, from boxes and cartons to fillers and protectors, and more. You can also design your own packing tape directly in our online tool. Feel free to contact us and speak to our packaging specialists. The number is 010 – 33 08 200 and we are open weekdays from 07:30-17:00.

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