The 3M™ VHB™ Tape LSE Series

 

There is a new breakthrough in tape bonding. The 3M VHB Tape LSE Series of tapes expands options for manufacturers and assemblers who need solutions for low surface energy materials.

For permanent plastic assembly, the typical process has involved mechanical fasteners or joining methods like ultrasonic welding or traditional adhesives. Instead, consider this top-performing product, which has significant advantages over other methods of assembly.

First, let’s talk about what materials, exactly, the LSE series is right for. The 3M VHB Tape LSE Series is designed to be a long-lasting, lightweight, high-strength bonding solution for composites and LSE plastics – and mostly without primer. This includes LSE substrates such as polypropylene, thermoplastic olefins, and thermoplastic elastomers, plus composite materials like glass-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced plastic.

When it comes to creating designs and manufacturing products, no matter what the industry, a balance between aesthetics and functionality is crucial. Plastics and smooth surfaces are rising trends, and they need a new kind of bonding. That’s where the 3M VHB Tape LSE Series comes in. With a wide variety of application methods and an easy process that eliminates complicated and expensive steps, these lightweight but high bond strength adhesives provide durability and flexibility to make any design stand out and stand up.

Liquid adhesives are a popular choice for plastic assembly, but they have some drawbacks, such as needing time to set, visible bond lines, and waste from containers that are opened but not fully used. 3M VHB Tape LSE Series, on the other hand, provides immediate handling strength and the ability to pre-tape parts, which allows for faster assembly, consistent delivery quantities, and less waste from discarded, partially used containers. Plus, there are no interruptions with messy bond lines or cracking of substrates, giving you the smooth design look you’re aiming for.

3M VHB Tape LSE Series also have several advantages over mechanical fasteners. Whether you want to bond delicate substrates or dissimilar materials, these tapes can handle any materials. The application is simple, quick, and safe, while also reducing the bulk of the final assembly, sealing out water, and leaving you with a sleek, clean aesthetic.

Permanent plastic assembly is often handled with ultrasonic welding, which can be effective but expensive and highly specialized. The solution? 3M VHB Tape LSE Series. Bond non-compatible materials or substrates, even with challenging geometric designs, without worry and with a safe application. Use of these tapes avoids the significant investments in welding equipment, jigs and fixtures, and a highly trained labor force, while also removing the extra time spent on post-welding finishing and tooling.

3M VHB Tape LSE Series products are available in three thicknesses: 0.6mm, 1.1mm, and 1.6mm, all made from 100% closed cell acrylic foam for stress distribution and an easy application on both indoor and outdoor materials.

The long and short of it is – the 3M VHB Tape LSE Series can be a superior option to solve any and all concerns you may have with other methods of assembly.  Talk to the Thomco team today to determine how they can work for you.