iTapeStore stocks genuine 3M™ VHB™ tape by the foot or by the full roll, and you are able to get the length you require. No minimum order. For custom dimensions, email Sales@iTapeStore.com with your quantity and measurements.
3M™ VHB™ Tapes are tape fasteners designed for interior and exterior bonding. They replace rivets, spot welds, liquid adhesives and other permanent fasteners in many applications.
The tapes are made with acrylic foam which gives them energy-absorbing, stress-relaxing characteristics that you won't get from a standard double sided tape. The acrylic chemistry is what makes VHB™ last for years, not months.
Each VHB™ product uses a unique blend of foam density, adhesive formulation, tape color, and release liner. Some variants adhere to a very limited set of materials while others bond to a broad spectrum. They also differ in tensile strength, shear and peel performance, plasticizer migration resistance, and UL746C certification. All VHB™ options have strong solvent and moisture resistance.
Contact us for other options, questions, or to inquire about our Cut-To-Size Services: Email Sales@iTapeStore.com with quantity and dimensions for pricing.
Bond Strength and Cure Time
About how long 3M™ VHB™ tape takes to develop full adhesion:
- 50% of strength after 20 minutes
- 90% after 24 hours
- Full strength at 72 hours
You can accelerate the process by holding the joint at 150°F (66°C) for an hour. The bond develops faster, which results in a stronger hold.
Choosing the Right VHB™ Tape Thickness
Tape thickness depends on the rigidity of your substrates and how flat they sit against each other. VHB™ conforms to some surface irregularity, but it won't flow into gaps the way a liquid adhesive would.
- 45 mil and above for rigid materials with normal flatness. The 3M™ VHB™ 5952 (45 mil, black) covers most general-purpose bonding.
- 15 mil for flexible substrates. The 3M™ VHB™ 4920 handles that well.
- Thin tapes for small rigid parts.
- 120 mil for large panels with thermal expansion. The 3M™ VHB™ 4959 absorbs that movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 3M™ VHB™ tape is the strongest?
Of the standard line, the 5952 has the greatest shear strength for general-purpose bonding. For extreme loads or unusual substrates, consider 3M™'s VHB™ Tape MAX products.
How long does 3M™ VHB™ tape take to cure?
50% strength in 20 minutes. 90% in 24 hours. The full bond is established at 72 hours. Heat speeds it up. For example, 150°F for one hour will get you close to full cure early.
Can you remove 3M™ VHB™ tape once it's applied?
You can. It just takes some work. Apply isopropyl alcohol to the edge, cut through with an oscillating tool, then use 3M™'s Adhesive Remover to clean off any leftover residue.