Choosing the Right Tape for Splicing High-Slip Films in Flexo
Efficient and secure splicing is essential for maintaining productivity and minimizing waste—especially when working with high-slip films such as LDPE and BOPP. While these films are engineered for smooth processing, their surface characteristics present a challenge for standard adhesive tapes. Slip agents added to reduce friction often migrate to the surface, lowering surface energy and making bonding more difficult.
This reduction in surface energy can interfere with tape performance during high-speed flying splice operations, increasing the risk of splice failure and unplanned downtime. To keep production lines running smoothly, it’s crucial to use splicing tapes specifically developed to bond reliably with these types of substrates.
Challenges of Splicing High-Slip Films
High-slip films are widely used for their excellent runnability and are common in flexible packaging applications. However, the migration of slip agents—such as waxes or fatty acid amides—to the surface creates a thin, often invisible layer that disrupts adhesive bonding. This increases the risk of splice failure, particularly during fast-paced flying splice operations where quick and secure adhesion is critical.
Best Practices for Splicing High-Slip Films
- Choose high-tack adhesive tapes: These tapes are formulated to adhere effectively to low-energy surfaces, compensating for the presence of slip agents.
- Test before full-scale production: Always evaluate tape performance on the actual film in use to confirm bonding strength under your specific conditions.
- Maintain clean film surfaces: Surface cleanliness supports optimal adhesive contact, reducing the risk of splice failure.
Recommended Solution
tesa® 51948
For high-slip film splicing, tesa® 51948 is a highly effective choice. Designed to bond securely to low-energy surfaces, this high-performance splicing tape ensures durability and efficiency in demanding flexographic printing applications. It provides excellent tack, strong adhesion, and resistance to slip agents, reducing the risk of splice failures and increasing production reliability.
Get Expert Advice
Choosing the right plate mounting tape is key to protecting your flexographic plates and ensuring print consistency. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the best solution for your specific needs. Contact us today for personalized guidance and product recommendations.
