Powder coating is a widely used type of finishing process. Powder coating involves the application of dry, free-flowing, thermoplastic or thermoset powder material to a part or component surface. The powder is then melted and hardened into an even coating.
Powder coating is ideal for many materials, such as metals, plastics, and glass. It creates surface coatings that are both functional and decorative, and is available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures.
Polyester Tapes for Powder Coating Masking
In many applications, designs require that certain component sections remain uncoated. These areas need to be masked before the powder coating process. Polyester tapes provide an ideal solution for this need.
Polyester tapes are made with a polyester carrier and a silicone adhesive. Silicone is well suited for high heat applications like powder coating due to its resilience to extreme temperatures. Silicone also has a lower initial tack compared to acrylic and rubber adhesives, allowing for clean removal after high heat processes. Polyester tapes can withstand powder coating curing processes up to 425°F putting them in the category of high temperature masking tapes.
Types of Powdering Coating Polyester Tape
Green polyester tape is the preferred industry standard for powder coating masking tape. It is the most economical and widely used of the powder coating tapes.
- Temperature Rating : 400 F / 204 C
- Thickness : 3.5 mils
Blue polyester tape has a thinner carrier than green polyester tape and works well with uneven or curved surfaces. It is a good choice for masking of materials subjected to high temperatures.
- Temperature Rating : 400 F/ 204 C
- Thickness : 2.5 mils
Rusty red polyester tape works well where the high heat properties of polyimide or glass cloth are unnecessary. It is a cost-effective choice for temperature resistance requirements greater than can be met with green polyester tape.
- Temperature Rating : 425 F/ 218 C
- Thickness : 3.8 mils
Glass cloth tape consists of a woven fiberglass backing coated with silicone adhesive, making it flame retardant and well-suited for thicker coat and high heat applications.
- Temperature Rating : 500 F/ 260 C
- Thickness : 7.2 mils
Polyimide tapes are most often used for extended high temperature paint cures and high heat ovens. It removes cleanly and does not leave adhesive residue.
- Temperature Rating : 500 F/ 260 C
- Thickness : 2.5 mils, 3 mils
Can-Do tape offers a variety of polyester tapes for powder coat masking with the added benefit of die cutting conversion. Die cut tapes reduce manufacturing costs by providing precise, pre-cut pieces that eliminate hand-trimming. Contact us to discuss your powder coat masking needs.