How to Choose Polyimide Tape
Choosing polyimide tape starts with the adhesive, the job the tape must do, and the film backing thickness. Check the complete process, including the surface, exposure time, and removal requirements, before selecting a tape.
1. Choose the adhesive for your temperature requirement
| Tape | Listed maximum recommended operating temperature | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Standard silicone adhesive | 500°F / 260°C | Silicone tape |
| Standard acrylic adhesive | 300°F / 150°C | Acrylic tape |
| Anti-static silicone adhesive | 500°F / 260°C | anti-static silicone tape |
| Anti-static acrylic adhesive | 310°F / 155°C | anti-static acrylic tape |
These are the listed limits for the adhesive-backed products, not a promise that every substrate or process will work at the limit. The 400°C figure associated with Kapton® Type HN describes an application of the film alone; it is not the recommended operating temperature of this adhesive-backed tape. Our Kapton® Tape listing uses silicone adhesive.
2. Choose the tape style
- Standard amber: select silicone or acrylic based on your process requirements.
- Anti-static: consider anti-static polyimide tape when static charge is a concern; verify its specifications against the requirements of your work.
- Black: black polyimide tape is an option where opacity or lower reflectivity than amber is useful.
- Double sided: double sided polyimide tape has adhesive on both sides for bonding or holding applications.
3. Choose backing thickness and width
The 1, 2, 5, and 10 mil labels on standard tape describe polyimide film backing thickness, not total tape thickness. Roll length also varies: standard 1, 2, and 5 mil tape is 36 yards; standard 10 mil tape is 15 yards. See the thickness and width guide for a comparison, then select a width on the product page.
Need a nonstandard size or help matching a specification? Request a custom tape quote or contact us.