By 3M 365
3M RP16, RP25, RP32, RP45, and RP62 VHB tapes are double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes for bonding a variety of substrates including many metal, plastic, and painted materials. All tapes are available with a paper or with a polyethylene film liner. For example, RP45 has a paper liner, and RP45(F) has a film liner. As an expansion of Digi-Key's value-add program, Digi-Key also provides these products in various cut sizes and lengths.
The RP family of 3M VHB tapes utilizes modified acrylic adhesive on both sides of a very conformable, adhesive foam core. The combination of strength, conformability, and adhesion makes this family one of the most capable and well-rounded 3M VHB tapes. It is specifically designed for good adhesion to high, medium, and low surface energy such as plastics, paints, metals, and glass. Applications for this tape include bonding and sealing polycarbonate lenses over LCD signage and windows to post-painted control panels.
The viscoelastic properties provide an extraordinarily strong double-sided foam tape that adheres to a broad range of substrates, including aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel, composites, plastics, acrylic, polycarbonate, ABS, and painted or sealed wood and concrete. 3M's bonding tapes provide excellent shear strength, conformability, surface adhesion, and temperature resistance. They are commonly used in applications across a variety of markets including transportation, appliance, electronics, construction, sign and display, and general industrial. VHB tabe reliably bonds a variety of materials with strength and speed for permanent applications.
For maximum bond strength, the surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned with a 50:50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol (consult manufacturer's directions for use in precautions) and water. Ideal tape application is accomplished when the temperature is between +70°F and +100°F (+21°C and +38°C), and the bond is allowed to dwell 72 hours. Initial tape application to surfaces at temperatures below +50°F (+10°C) is not recommended.