Kapton® film and Kapton® tape share a polyimide film component, but they are sold for different jobs. Film is non-adhesive; tape combines a film backing with pressure-sensitive adhesive. That difference changes how you install it, its total thickness and how you evaluate heat exposure.
| Question | Kapton® film | Kapton® tape |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesive? | No adhesive in our cut-to-length product | Silicone adhesive in our branded tape |
| Listed sizes | 1, 2 or 5 mil; 12, 24 or 36 in width; linear feet | 1, 2 or 5 mil film backing; select roll width |
| Thickness measure | Film thickness | Film backing plus adhesive equals total tape thickness |
| Typical selection reason | Cutting, forming or incorporating film into an assembly | Masking, wrapping or attaching with adhesive |
Do their temperature limits match?
No. DuPont's film bulletin discusses Type HN film use in applications as high as 400°C; our silicone-adhesive Kapton® tape lists a 260°C maximum recommended operating temperature. A film-only use figure should never be applied to the finished adhesive tape. See our temperature explanation.
How do I order?
Shop cut-to-length Kapton® film by width, thickness and linear feet; the current minimum is 25 continuous feet. Shop Kapton® tape by backing thickness and roll width. Start with the film guide or tape guide for selection details, or ask about a custom format. Kapton® is a registered trademark of DuPont or its affiliates.
Two examples
Temporary masking on a component: when you need the material to attach directly to a surface, tape is the natural starting point. Check the silicone adhesive's 260°C maximum recommended operating temperature, total tape thickness, surface compatibility and removal process.
Custom electrical insulation piece: when you plan to cut and incorporate a non-adhesive layer into another assembly, film is the natural starting point. Review the 1, 2 and 5 mil film options, choose a width that minimizes waste, and qualify any added adhesive or lamination separately.
What about a die-cut shape?
A standard piece is available through our Kapton® dots, rectangles and squares listing. For a custom shape, communicate the dimensions, quantity, whether adhesive is required, and the end-use conditions. A die-cut tape and a die-cut bare film may look alike but serve different purposes.
Which measurement should I compare?
For film, 1 mil describes the film itself. For tape, 1 mil usually describes the film backing; the adhesive adds thickness. Our 1 mil Kapton® tape lists 2.5 mil total. Comparing a 1 mil film price directly with a 1 mil tape price therefore compares different constructions and sales units. See the dedicated tape and film guides before specifying a material.