Packaging, at any level, involves sealing. Various options, such as glue, gum, tape, and fasteners, are available on the market. However, the degree of attachment and adhesiveness varies in each product. From repairing and sealing to packaging, several processes need sealant. However, only some processes give promising results. That is where adhesive tape plays an important role. It is always preferred over glue and gum by consumers.
However, gummed tape is a recent invention. Earlier, this work was done using liquid glue. So, what has made consumers switch from the traditional way to the new sealing way? The answer is the fact that adhesive tape is better than glue. But how? Let’s check.
The History
Early humans, or, as per record, Ancient Egyptians, invented the way to seal and repair anything. For that, they used primitive ways like using trees and plant saps and resin as glue. That invention was adequate for its time. Later on, people kept on inventing glues from other sources, like animal hides and milk. However, the process of producing such glues took time. So, during the Industrial Revolution era, synthetic sealant and adhesive was invented.
Earlier in the 20th century, the invention of masking tape brought a revolution to the packaging and repair processes. Later on, the world learned about Duct tape as well during the World War. That is how adhesive tape got its current form.
Adhesive Tape vs. Glue and Gum
In the modern age, consumers prefer tape over liquid glue. For this choice, there are many reasons. Let’s analyze both types of adhesives.
Ease of Application
First, glue, being liquid in nature, is messy to use. Even a gumstick can leave gum on the finger during the application. However, packaging tape offers mess-free and stress-free applications.
Second, applying only the required quantity of glue and gum is important. Otherwise, it can ruin the process. However, if you cut off smaller or bigger sizes of tape, that is fine. You can always reuse the extra part.
Last, gum and glue need some time after application to seal the package correctly. However, with tape, the process is easy. Just tape your package, and voila! It’s packed.
Speed of Application
Tape helps you increase packaging speed. You must stretch the required size, apply it to the surface, and cut. However, you must be extra careful with the amount you use with glue and gum. Otherwise, it can increase your application and drying time.
Also, most tapes are compatible with dispensers and machines. Hence, it makes the process a breeze. While you can dispense glue from machines, those machines are comparatively more costly than tape dispensers. Also, those machines need electricity to work, increasing the overall cost.
Versatility and Flexibility
Adhesive tape has a wide range of applications that make it versatile. For example, masking tape is mainly used for masking any surface. It can also be used as a label. Duct tape, aluminium tape, and cross-filament tape are mostly moisture-resistant, hence increasing their application span. Double-sided tape helps in mounting and affixing structures to surfaces.
Lastly, packaging tape can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and pressures. However, glue and gum have limited application. Not every glue or gum can handle pressure and temperature. Also, due to their liquid nature, they cannot resist moisture. Hence, their application is limited.
Ease of Residue Removal
We have been through this several times. It happens often when you wrongly place adhesive tape somewhere else or pack the wrong item. You can easily peel off the tape to correct your mistake without leaving residue. Also, while carefully opening taped products, you can avoid any damage to the material and avoid tape residue.
Conversely, this is not the case with glue and gum. If you have applied glue and gum mistakenly anywhere, you need to apply all your effort to remove it. However, there is a 99% chance that you will fail. Even during application, if glue drops anywhere, it causes you to waste time removing it. Even after all efforts, there is always a residue of glue or gum.
Cost Effective
Adhesive tape is way cheaper than liquid glue and gum. Also, as adhesive tape takes less time for application, it helps in decreasing packaging time. In turn, it decreases logistics and fulfilment costs, increasing overall profit. Third, there is less waste involved in adhesive tape. There is less waste; hence, lower wastage cost.
On the other hand, glue and gum can increase packing time, increasing fulfilment costs and lowering profit.
Lowered Wastage
Glue and gum produce more waste than gummed tape. Glue can be wasted if applied in more than the required quantity on the surface. It becomes difficult to wipe it or reuse it. Also, it causes waste of the parcel in case of messy application.
Adhesive tape produces less waste and is adjustable if cut incorrectly. Also, you can remove and reuse the tape strip if wrongly applied. Hence, there are fewer chances of waste with tape.
Longitivity and Storage
You can store gummed tape in a dry area at room temperature and without direct sunlight. It is recommended that adhesive tape be used within a year. However, it can last longer than a year.
However, glue and gum need the right temperature for storage. In most cases, it freezes in the container, causing waste of material and money. Hence, glue and gum cannot last longer than adhesive tape.
Our Verdict
Adhesive tape is better than glue and gum in many ways:
- It costs less.
- It needs less care.
- It can be stored longer.
- It is flexible and offers clean applications.
- It is easy to remove.
However, this is not the case with glue and gum.
AAB Industries LLC specializes in a wide range of self adhesive tapes for packaging to speciality and repair. Contact us now to place the order.
