Self-Fusing Tommy Tape Outperforms Standard Wrapping Tapes

Tommy Tape ™ is a 'self-fusing' silicone rubber tape that can be used for wrapping just about anything. It is fully compatible with marine environments as it is waterproof and resistant to salt water. It can even be applied underwater.

A number of properties make Tommy Tape superior to standard wrapping tapes in most applications. It does not consist of a backing with an adhesive surface, but is an inch-wide ribbon of synthetic elastomer that sticks to itself, bonding within 24 hours (fewer is heat is applied) to form a wrapper that won't slip against itself during use. It remains pliable through a wide range of operating temperatures (-60° C to 200° C) and doesn't crack with cold or soften in the heat.

Tommy Tape will not stick to the surface it is wrapped around, so is ideal for protecting items from which it may have to be removed, such as hose fittings or electrical couplings. When the coupling needs to be accessed, just slice through the Tommy Tape and it will fall away without leaving a sticky residue. A water-tight seal can be achieved by stretching the tape while it is being applied, so it can be used for emergency repairs to hoses or pipes, or for protecting against rust or salt-water corrosion. The tape's elasticity (it can be stretched up to three times its length) also makes it easier to wrap oddly shaped items.

In addition, Tommy Tape is an excellent insulator for virtually any electrical application. With a dielectric strength of 400 VPM, Tommy Tape is good for anywhere from 8-12,000 Volts, depending on the MIL thickness.

Tommy Tape can replace conventional wrapping tapes in most marine applications. Used on railings, handles or tool grips, it provides a padded, slip-proof surface that doesn't leave a residue on the hands. It protects against chaffing and provides some protection against impact.

Because it is stable in most environments (only strong oxidants such as liquid chlorine, pure oxygen or calcium hypo chlorate will degrade it), Tommy Tape can be used to protect against oil or other chemical contaminants.

Tommy Tape is available in Black, Grey, Orange/Red, Cherry Red, Blue, Yellow, Green, Clear and White and in sizes from 1/4" to 2" wide, 5 to 80 mil thick and up to 110' long. For more information, contact Tommy Tape

Courtesy of Harbor & Shipping Magazine/February 1995 pg. 41.