Premium Electrical Tapes for Insulation and Protection

For low-voltage installations (up to 1000 V) tape should be wound so that it is stretched by 50-75% of its original length. Another layer of PVC tape then forms the outer layer which provides important functions: electrical insulation, protection against mechanical damage, protection against UV light and corrosive chemical influences (alkalis or acids).

There are many types of PVC-based electrical insulation tape available on the market. General-purpose PVC tapes are suitable for tasks such as bundling cables, indoor colour coding and temporary fixes. In contrast, high-quality PVC tapes are approved for permanent insulating work in electrical engineering. They operate well in cold weather are resistant to UV so particulary well suited to outdoor work and cold weather and hot weather conditions alike.

Tapes that are used but not best suited for applications may detach themselves from a surface over time, this is called flagging and will result in water and dust ingress and a loss of reliable insulation. It is therefore important to use the correct tape for an application. In a low voltage installation with PVC tape, it is necessary to apply at least two half-lapped layers for optimal insulation and protective covering. A rule of thumb is that the thickness of the insulating layer should be about 1.5 times the cable insulation.

Tape must be kept taut during winding so that it binds well,. The last wind of the tape is done in a diminished fashion, and the tape is cut off after the last wind (especially with PVC tapes). Then wait a while and apply pressure to the end, in this way, it is possible to prevent the tape from loosening again due to internal stresses.

First, the low voltage electrical connections between the motor supply line and the motor are made. To do this, bend the cable ends so that the subsequent work is not hindered. Cable ends should be wrapped with at least four overlapping layers of self-sealing rubber tape. It forms the primary electrical insulation and waterproofing. Finally, it should be wrapped with at least 2 1/2 overlapping layers of PVC insulating tape approved for electrical installation.

A tip: This layer should cover the previously installed rubber insulation by about twice the tape width of the PVC tape. Also for this purpose, the stretching technique is recommended so that the PVC tape rests firmly on the rubber layer and on the cable sheath. This step completes the protection against moisture. If access to the connection is to be maintained for re-work, the first thing to do is to wind a layer of PVC tape with the adhesive side outwards.

Low-voltage branches can be protected using tape. Insulate and seal the finished joint with at least four overlapping layers of rubber tape. Finally, cover the branch with two overlapping layers of a high-quality PVC insulating tape for electrical applications. If the access to the connection is to be maintained for re-work, wrap the first layer of PVC tape with the adhesive facing outside.

A common way to isolate taps on low-voltage power distributors is to wrap them first with two layers of fabric tape then at least four overlapping layers of rubber tape or mastic-coated insulating material are applied. The third insulating and protective layer consists of two overlapping layers of high quality PVC insulating tape.

Electrical insulating tapes have proven themselves in numerous fields of application. When correctly used, they ensure a long-term stable and high-quality insulation. Today, there is a wide range of products available that make it easier for the electrician to work and increase productivity. The technical properties of insulating tapes have been constantly improved in recent years and high quality, certified products are suitable for all aspects of electrical engineering work and are indispensable for the professional.