To provide reliable protection, electronic safety isolation methods must be used to physically separate hazardous circuits from users and surrounding equipment. Available in many different varieties, electrically insulating materials wrap, seal, and insulate cables, circuit boards, and other electric components. Electrical insulation tapes, in particular, provide the reliability and versatility needed in these critical applications, limiting overvoltage and isolating circuits that could be hazardous if connected.

Improper isolation techniques greatly increase the risk of injuries and deaths within a workplace or built environment; for instance, without isolation, increased voltage of measuring instruments can cause electric shocks, burns, and fire hazards. Overvoltage issues can also be caused by lightning strikes or strong power surges in heavy-duty equipment, and even short-lived voltage spikes can cause data errors, equipment damage, and reduced performance.

Types of Electrical Insulation Tape

Making use of insulating tapes for isolation eliminates the risk of direct electrical connection between two or more circuits or their adjacent parts. The tape is rolled around the wires to provide insulation and prevent the flow of harmful currents from AC or DC differences between circuits.

The specific properties and benefits of insulating tapes vary depending on their construction material. Below are some of the most popular types of electrical isolation tape.

Black Vinyl Tape

This is the industry standard thanks to its ability to withstand a wide range of elements. Although durable and strong, it can also be easily removed with minimal residue. Black vinyl tape has excellent UV resistance.

Transformer Insulation Tape

This tape can withstand high heat and flames and has outstanding adhesive properties, making it well-suited for lead insulation, as well as coil wrapping and banding. And because transformer electrical insulation tape can produce a tight coil construction, it can be used within the layers of both dry-type and oil-filled transformers.

Dielectric Tape or Electrical Insulation Tape

Used for wrapping, marking, and splicing electrical connections such as cables and wires, these tapes typically have voltage ratings. Helping to prevent shorting between various types of ground wire, they offer superior adhesive holding power to a variety of materials and can also offer resistance to cleaning solvents and oil.

Polyimide Film Tape

A thin film tape with superior heat resistance, polyimide film tape can also be used in lower temperatures. Its thin construction is particularly useful for wave solder masking, as well as the production of flexible circuit materials. It also reduces adhesive transfer, reducing the need for cleaning, and has great dielectric strength and abrasion resistance. Service temperatures range from -100°F to +500°F (-73°C to +260°C). This tape can be used in a wide range of environments thanks to its excellent electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties.

Thermal Insulating Tape

Used to keep high heat away from wires, cables, hoses, and other equipment, this electrical isolation tape becomes sticky when heated, allowing for adhesive flexibility; cooling allows for easy repositioning or removal of parts during assembly. These tapes are used near equipment that poses fire hazards, such as engines and furnaces.

Learn More

A family-owned fabricating distributor of engineered materials since 1937, Robert McKeown Co., Inc. is proud to offer a wide range of electrical insulation and isolation tapes. To learn more about the various types of electrical isolation tapes available or discuss how they can help protect your facility and workers — and your bottom line — reach out the team today.