Gummed Tape
Gummed tape is tape that has been “gummed” or made especially sticky on the back. It is a popular tape used for art projects, decorating, and for shipping needs. Most gummed tape is very easy to use – simply cut the tape, moisten the back, and apply it where it is needed. Gummed tape comes in a wide assortment of colors and sizes. The most common roll size is 1 ˝” wide x 250 ft. long, though a variety of sizes are available. Commercial needs for gum tape usually require larger rolls.Gummed tape may be used either in rolls or with a gummed tape dispenser. These dispensers work in a way that's very similar to your average desktop tape dispensers. Some of these dispensers simply dispense the tape, and require you to wet the backs of the tape. More advanced models wet the back of the tape as it is dispensed. This allows for easy and convenient tape application. The use of gummed tape in commercial applications requires the use of large tape dispensers.
Gummed Linen Hanging Tape
Some gummed tape is referred to as “gummed linen hanging tape.” This type of gummed tape is very durable and is perfect for heavy-duty art projects, for many types of repair work and even for book binding. This type of tape usually has a neutral pH so that it does not harm the products it is being used with.
Gummed Book Repair Tape
This type of gummed tape is designed specifically for book binding. It is normally acid-free so that it does not harm the books it is used with, and is made of a very sturdy linen material.
Benefits of Gummed Tape for Shippers
The use of gummed tape for shipping matter offers many advantages over standard shipping or packing tape. Some of these advantages are:
Permanent bonding – unlike the pressure-sensitive tapes which are often used in packaging, gummed tape is actually reactivated by the liquid in the tape dispenser. This causes the glue on the tape to permanently sink into the corrugated parts of a carton. Gummed tape actually becomes apart of the carton, and it sticks to almost any surface. In short, gummed tape provides a very strong, permanent closure.
Product Protection - gummed tape can be used to seal all the outside seams of a carton. This virtually eliminates the chance of any dust or dirt entering the package, so the package's contents are safe.
Tamper Evident – gummed tape prevents pilferage because the tape makes it very obvious if someone tries to get inside the package. The carton simply cannot be resealed without clear signs that tampering has taken place.
Easily Printed On – gummed tape is very easily printed on and marked during the packaging process. Codes and package instructions and be easily relayed onto the tape.
Provides Superior Stackability – gummed tape provides excellent stackability for two reasons. First, because the gummed tape sits flat on a carton, it allows the carton to sit flat on top of another carton or cart, etc. Secondly, gummed tape allows that carton to shift ever so slightly so that it settles and becomes flush with whatever is sitting on.
Environmentally Responsible – gummed tape is entirely recyclable, biodegradable and a renewable resource. It allows the carton to be re-used.