Replace screws, rivets and welds with a clean, high-strength bonding system engineered for demanding industrial environments. 3M™ VHB™ Double Sided Tapes provide permanent structural bonding on metals, glass, composites and a wide range of plastics. These acrylic foam tapes eliminate mechanical fasteners, distribute stress more evenly across the joint and deliver outstanding durability in heat, cold, UV and moisture.
Why Choose 3M™ VHB™ Double Sided Tapes?
3M™ VHB™ tapes are built from viscoelastic, closed-cell acrylic foam that creates an immediate, high-tack bond and then strengthens over time as the adhesive fully wets the substrate. This structure allows the tape to absorb dynamic loads and accommodate thermal expansion, offering unique advantages.
Key benefits include:
• Structural strength: Exceptional shear strength and high tensile holding power suitable for permanent installations.
• Design flexibility: Eliminates visible fasteners, enabling cleaner aesthetics and lighter assemblies.
• Vibration & stress dissipation: Acrylic foam absorbs impact and flex, improving long-term durability in transport, electronics and metal fabrication.
• Outstanding environmental resistance: High performance in outdoor conditions with excellent UV, solvent and moisture resistance.
• Compatibility with difficult surfaces: Select VHB families bond to powder coat, low surface energy plastics and textured metals.
Applications span architectural panels, vehicle trim, sign mounting, appliance fabrication, glass bonding, composite skins, electronic housings and many other engineered assemblies.
Technical Specifications
Performance varies by VHB family. Below is an overview of the characteristics engineers typically evaluate.
Temperature Resistance
• Long-term continuous service: ~149°C
• Short-term peaks: ~232°C
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments with wide temperature swings.
Adhesive System
• 100% acrylic adhesive formulated for high shear strength and long-term durability.
• Select versions are engineered for low surface energy (LSE) substrates.
• Excellent resistance to plasticiser migration, solvents and humidity.
Thickness Range
• Approximately 0.006" to 0.120" (0.150 mm to 3 mm).
• Thicker foams support greater gap filling and differential movement.
Substrate Compatibility
• Metals: aluminium, stainless steel, painted steel.
• Glass and ceramics.
• Plastics: polycarbonate, acrylic, ABS, PVC and certain LSE plastics (depending on product family).
• Powder-coated surfaces and composite panels.
If you need confirmation for a specific pairing, our team can test compatibility.
Link to list of products offered
Custom Converting Options
iTapeStore is a USA-based converter offering flexible supply with no minimum order quantity. You can buy by the roll, the yard or request custom processing for production-scale workflows.
Available converting services:
• Die-cutting: Precise shapes and patterns for OEM assemblies and repeatable installation.
• Slitting to exact width: From narrow strips to wide-format rolls.
• Custom lengths / sheets: Reduce waste, improve efficiency and simplify end-user application.
• Kitting: Pre-assembled tape sets for field technicians or assembly lines.
For Quoting: Email Sales@iTapeStore.com or call Customer Service at (888) 233-2216
Application Guide
Achieving maximum performance requires proper surface preparation and application technique.
1. Surface Preparation
• Clean with IPA/water mix (50/50).
• For LSE plastics or powder coat, use a 3M primer for improved adhesion.
• Ensure surfaces are dry and free of oils.
2. Application Pressure
• Apply firm, uniform pressure to wet out the adhesive.
• Use rollers or clamps for larger panels.
3. Temperature Conditions
• Ideal bonding temperature: +20°C to +38°C.
• Avoid installation below +10°C unless using a cold-temperature grade.
4. Cure Time
• Bond strength increases over the first 72 hours as the adhesive fully wets the surfaces.
• Full structural performance typically occurs after 72 hours under normal conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3M™ VHB™ removable?
VHB is designed as a permanent bonding solution. It can be removed with mechanical stretching, specialised tools or adhesive removers, but the process may damage the substrate.
Does VHB stick to powder-coated surfaces?
Yes. Many VHB families bond well to powder coat, though performance depends on surface texture. A primer may be recommended for optimal adhesion.
Can VHB replace screws and welds?
In many applications, yes. VHB offers structural-strength bonding across metals, composites and glass, provided load, temperature and joint design fall within specification.
Is VHB suitable for outdoor environments?
Absolutely. The acrylic adhesive system has excellent UV, weathering and solvent resistance, making it suitable for signage, vehicles, exterior panels and architectural use.