3M PTFE Tape: Film and Glass Cloth

The backing differs. 3M 5490 and 5480 use PTFE film, whereas 3M 5451 has a PTFE-coated glass cloth backing. The glass cloth is described for applications involving mechanical stress; the PTFE surface provides the sliding and release function. The contact surface, load and adhesive of the individual tape still determine its suitability. The material name alone does not establish how the complete adhesive bond will perform.

An extruded PTFE backing, as used in 3M 5490, is described for a smooth sliding surface. 3M 5480 uses skived PTFE film and is mentioned for rollers and other sliding surfaces. The better option depends on geometry, mechanical load and processing. Check the specific product and the contact surface together before choosing a tape for your process.

The adhesive is a separate part of the tape construction and must suit the substrate and application. A silicone adhesive is specified for 3M 5490, 5480 and 5451; the product data for 3M 5498 specify rubber-resin. A property of the PTFE surface therefore does not automatically describe adhesive performance. Tell us about the substrate and processing method so the complete product can be assessed.

Describe the surface to be covered, its contour, the desired sliding or release function and the mechanical load during use. Include the required width or shape and how you intend to apply the tape. Krückemeyer GmbH can cut suitable tapes to size and produce die-cut parts. We assess whether a specific 3M PTFE tape can be processed into the requested format and perform as intended in your application.