The 8 Types Of ESD Tape To Use In Your Business | Bondline

Jul. 21, 2025

The 8 Types Of ESD Tape To Use In Your Business | Bondline

A lot of people are aware of regular high charging tape in ESD Protected Areas (EPAs) and know that these should be replaced with ESD tape. However, there is a lot of confusion out there as to what type of ESD tape should be used for what application. So, to alleviate the confusion and ensure that you choose the right kind of ESD tape, we’ve compiled this list of the different types of ESD tape available to you and what they can be used for.

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ESD Meaning

Firstly, let’s recap on what ESD is. ESD is an acronym for Electrostatic Discharge. Quite simply, ESD can occur when there is an electric charge between two or more surfaces. When in contact with one another, these surfaces can rub, create friction and thus become electrically charged. As the two surfaces have different charges, this can cause an ESD, resulting in a static shock. While it is a common nuisance in our everyday lives, it can be detrimental to businesses in the electronics field where static must be controlled.

ESD Tapes

Similar to regular cello-tape, ESD (Electro-static Discharge) tape is a type of adhesive tape that can be used for various applications. What differentiates ESD tape to regular tape contains anti-static properties. This allows the tape to be used around or placed onto electronic components or devices without the risk of static discharge. ESD tape can be naturally anti-static, but the majority of ESD tapes have been treated so that as it is unwound or used, there is very little risk of static charge.

Commonly, ESD tape is used for the sealing of ESD packaging such as bags and boxes. However, depending on the type of ESD tape, some can have heat resistance properties that allow them to be used for masking during wave soldering.

What Is ESD Tape used for?

ESD safe tape is primarily used as a protection device which can help prevent static generation and dissipation that can affect static sensitive components and devices. ESD tape can help to reduce the risk of contamination of your electrical products; including printed circuit boards, integrated circuits, memory chips and semiconductors. Often, it is used in addition to storing equipment in a cleanroom.

Exposing your products to electrostatic discharge can often lead to ESD damage. This can be irreversible and can sometimes go unnoticed until months or even years in time. Therefore, managing the risk of ESD is very important.

Types of ESD Tape

When we think about ESD tape, anti-static tape may be the first to come to our minds. However, in fact, there are many different types of ESD tape that have been curated for various uses and applications.

ESD tape can vary according to:

The material it is made from: some tapes can be dissipative, others may be conductive or neither.
Its size, width or length: some sizes are more suitable for masking and others better for sealing bags or boxes.
Its colour and design: tape can be plain, clear, opaque, patterned or even have a printed ESD logo.
The technical properties: some tapes have heat resistance while others may be low-charging.

It is important to consider the material, technical properties, size, colour and design of the tape as this can have a significant impact on the application.

So, what are the types of ESD tape you can use? Here are eight common examples.

1. ESD conductive shielding grid tape

2. ESD high temperature tape

3. Non-ESD high temperature tape

4. Anti-static tape

5. ESD blue clear tape

6. Aisle / floor marking tape

7. ESD Awareness Language Tape

8. General Purpose Static Awareness Tape

ESD Conductive Shielding Grid Tape

ESD conductive tape, also known as ESD grid tape, is a popular choice for use in Electrostatic Protected Areas where static-sensitive components and devices are handled. Many people opt for this type of tape due to its anti-static inner and outer surfaces; that will not flake, crack, shed, chip, or rub off the inner layer grids. Often, you will find that most ESD conductive tapes can be used in conjunction with an ESD tape dispenser which is very convenient for bench work.

Commonly, the tape is used for sealing primary or intimate packaging due to its EMI shielding. While it can be used to seal ESD packaging and containers, it can also be used for the following applications:

Applications:

Areas where the generation of static electricity is of concern.
To secure (bundle) IC tubes.
Used as ESD symbols for ESD awareness.
To cover external holes, plugs, or connector pins on electronic chassis (black boxes, etc.) during transportation or storage.
Tape dispensing: the voltage generated by unrolling will effectively be reduced to zero.
Sealing primary or intimate ESD packaging.

Typical features of ESD grid tape:

Three-layer tape: conductive grid buried between two static dissipating co-polymer substrates.
Beige with black grid pattern.
No shed, crack, flake, chip or rub off the inner layer grids.
Low-charge surface.
ESD symbol to IEC--1-5 printed throughout the tape
No shed, crack, flake, chip or rub off the inner layer grids.
Available in a variety of widths to suit various applications.
Most can be used with an ESD tape dispenser.
Complies to IEC--1-5 International Standard.

ESD High Temperature Tape

If you are looking for a tape that offers high heat resistance that will remain stable across a wide range of temperatures, then ESD high temperature tape is the best option for you. This type of tape is widely used for masking printed circuit boards during wave solder or solder dip processes due to its high heat insulation properties; protecting fragile components during manufacture. You may also find polyimide tape used for solder wave masking and electrical insulation.

Applications:

Masking gold leads and other components on boards populated with sensitive integrated circuits.
Thick conductive adhesive excellent for conformability to protect critical PCB features.
Masking off PCBs for IR reflow ovens or wave soldering under 300 °C for ~ 10 seconds.
Electrical insulation.

Key benefits and features of ESD high temperature tape:

Can be exposed to high temperatures.
Temperature resistance up to 300°C short term.
Provides heat insulation and protects fragile static-sensitive components during manufacture.
Tape removes cleanly leaving no adhesive residue after exposure to heat.
Colour: Brown opaque.
Film construction: Polyimide.
Available in a variety of widths to suit various applications.
Complies to IEC--1-5 International Standard.

Non-ESD High Temperature Tape

This type of tape is very similar to the ESD high temperature tape except it does not contain anti-static properties. Therefore, non-ESD high temperature tape should not be used in areas where electrostatic sensitive devices or components are handled. While it is non-ESD, this tape still offers exceptional heat insulation which makes it suitable to use for high temperature masking applications. This type of tape material can also be processed into polyimide film.

Applications:

PCB 3D printing.
Transformer insulation.
Making applications.

Key benefits and features of high temperature tape:

High temperature resists 260°C.
Strong tensile strength.
Heat-resistant silicone adhesive polyimide tape.
High temperature resistance.
Solvent resistant.
Easy peel-off no glue residue.
Non-ESD.
Backing: Polyimide film.
Adhesive: Silicone.
Colour: Amber.
Available in a variety of widths to suit various applications.

Anti-Static Tape

A stationery essential for all Electrostatic Protected Areas. Anti-static tape is the ideal type of tape to use for all general purpose applications; a suitable replacement for non-ESD cello tape. It is important that you replace standard tape with an anti-static alternative to comply with the IEC--1-5 International Standard. This will ensure the safety of static sensitive components and devices in the EPA.

Anti-static tape is particularly ideal for sealing conductive plastic bags that are commonly used for protecting static sensitive components (i.e. static shielding bags). It can also be used for various other applications listed below.

Applications:

Sealing ESD bags and other ESD packaging / containers.
Temporary labelling of ESDs (e.g. as might be required during inspection and quality control procedures).
General purpose ESD tape applications.
Secure (bundle) IC DIP tubes.
Use with ESD symbols for ESD awareness.
Holding work orders, instructions, or notes in offices, ESD workstations, or for general purpose.
Packaging for container sealing, holding IC DIP tubes and static shielding bag closure.
Conformal coating or holding and sealing supplies in manufacturing.

Features of anti-static tape:

Made from a natural fibre base and film coated with a rubber-based adhesive.
Non-static generating.
Available in a variety of widths to suit various applications.
Features ESD symbol.
Most can be used with an ESD tape dispenser.
Complies to IEC--1-5 International Standard.

ESD Blue Tape

Often, you may come across anti-static tape in different colours. While ESD blue tape is clear blue in colour, it possesses the same properties as anti-static tape. This is mostly down to personal preference.

This type of tape is particularly used to seal conductive / ESD bags or boxes and other ESD packaging materials.

Aisle / Floor Marking Tape

Aisle and floor marking tape can help mark the boundaries of an ESD Protected Area; defining walkways, zones and safe areas. It is typically used outside of entrances to provide a clear warning that people are entering an Electrostatic Protected Area (EPA). Marking tape can be used for marking out the floor area of an EPA, as well as applying to walls. However, this tape should not be used inside the EPA as it lacks ESD control properties.

Floor marking tape can be applied onto most surfaces. It particularly adheres well to synthetic flooring such as PVC floor tiles. It is also suitable for application on concrete flooring where it can be expected to withstand heavy traffic, particle contaminations and remain intact for several months. Marking tape is typically fluorescent yellow in colour with black printing to enhance visibility and awareness.

Applications:

Used to mark off floors, aisles or walls designating ESD Protective Areas.
Can be used as area signs.

Features:

Helps employees and visitors to identify Electrostatic Protected Areas.
Non-ESD.
Adheres well to synthetic and concrete flooring.
Heavy-duty: Can withstand heavy traffic, particle contaminations and remain intact for several months.
Colour: Yellow with black printing.
Often made from PVC material.

ESD Packaging Tape

ESD Awareness Language Tape & General Purpose Static Awareness Tape

ESD packaging tape is great to use for packaging items securely. You will often find that these types of tapes are available in multiple languages; most can be added on request. As these tapes do not contain any anti-static properties, they should not be used in areas where electrostatic sensitive devices and components are present.

These tapes are fluorescent yellow in colour with black text / print to enhance awareness. Most ESD packaging tapes are suitable to use with manual and automatic tape dispensers which is very convenient for offices or workstations. Depending on the supplier, you can find eco-friendly options that are completely recyclable.

Application:

Sealing secondary packaging such as cartons securely.

How To Choose The Right ESD Tape

After reading this article, you will know that ESD tapes come in all sorts of sizes, colours and materials, each with their own unique properties, so make sure you check the specifications to ensure your chosen tape will work for your application. Once you have chosen the right kind of ESD tape, don’t forget to purchase an ESD tape dispenser to go with it.

If you are still unsure of which type of ESD tape you need, our team can help you determine the most appropriate tape for your application and budget. Alternatively, an ESD audit can help you identify which type of tape and equipment you need to comply with the IEC--1-5 International Standard.

For More Advice, Contact Bondline

Rule of anti-static at ANSI ESD S20.20 for cover tape

The standard of anti-static function at ANSI ESD S20.20 for SMT(SMD)

A packaging plan shall be established to define packaging requirements, both inside and outside the EPA, per ANSI/ESD S541 or the contract, purchase order, drawing, or other documentation necessary to meet customer requirements. Test methods and test limits required for the various types of ESD protective packaging used by the Organization per ANSI/ESD S541 are summarized in Table 4. Packaging considered 'single use' shall be subjected to the same product qualification and shall meet the corresponding test method and test limit requirements of Table 4

Know the detail of ANSI ESD S20.20-

Force-One's cover tape can fit ANSI/ESD STM11.11 or ANSI/ESD STM11.12 or ANSI/ESD STM11.13

Read About "PSA(cold seal) Cover Tape"

For the SMT machine, first you need using Tape and reel to packaging your component. And the format need following EIA Standard, like dimension, pulling strength, the hole of carrier tape.

How to Choose a Cover Tape for SMD, SMT?

Choosing the right carrier tape for your device is only half the battle. Selecting the proper cover tape is also important to protect components, minimize product loss, and ensure a smooth ride through the pick-and-place process.

Heat-activated adhesive (HAA) cover tapes are the most widely used in the electronic component industry. Historically, they have been the least expensive and most readily available cover tapes on the market and work well in many cases. In the taping process, a heated sealing shoe presses the tape onto the edges of the carrier tape on both sides of each device, sealing the cover tape to the carrier tape while leaving the component free from active adhesive. In the HAA taping process, time, heat, and pressure must be carefully controlled to achieve optimum adhesion.

Most component manufacturers are familiar with and comfortable using HAA cover tape. However, compared to some newer technologies, HAA tape may not be the optimal choice for certain applications. The HAA taping process is relatively slow. While that’s not generally a problem for bigger components, smaller components and more devices per inch of carrier tape can markedly slow the production line. Moreover, HAA cover tape peel force is relatively inconsistent compared to more advanced cover tapes (Figure 1). The peel force’s deep lows and high peaks can result in a relatively inconsistent de-taping force at the SMT assembly plant, potentially causing devices to pop out of their carrier tape pockets — known as trampolining — and slowing down production. HAA cover tape’s adhesive can also be affected by time, temperature, and humidity.

For smaller devices, a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) cover tape may offer a better alternative to HAA tape. As the name implies, PSA tape adheres when pressure is applied; heat is not required to activate the cover tape.

PSA tapes are designed to provide a smoother peel force (Figure 2), minimizing trampolining and increasing production speed regularity. PSA adhesive are also less affected by time and weather conditions. Moreover, because heat is not required, PSA cuts down on energy costs at the component packing stage. The drawback to PSA tapes is that they leave a residue that can build up in SMT feeders over time. This can be mitigated through regular placement equipment cleaning and minor retrofits, which tape suppliers should be able to suggest.

How many kind are cover tapes of Heat Seal and Pressure sensitive>

◆Heat Activated Type (HAA)

1. Normal Type

2. Transparent Type

3. Conductive Type

Read More About "Heat Activated Cover Tape"

◆Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Sensitive (PSAs)

1. Normal Type

2. Conductive Type

3. Heat-Resisting Type

What difference about SMT, SMD, DIP?

SMT（SMT: surface Mount Technology）

SMD（SMD: surface Mount Device）

Goto to know more.

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DIP（Dual In-line Package）

The history about SMT?

The full name of SMT and SMD are surface Mount Technology and Surface Mount Device. SMT means a technology about fix the device on the PCB(Printed Circuit Board). SMD means some kind of electronic components can apply Surface Mount Technology to fix the device on the PCB.

SMT improve the cell or other device can become smaller. In the beginning, electronic devices like cell were produced by THT, DIP. （THT, Through-Hole Technology）（DIP, Dual-In line Package). The electronic components were not produced very small, if using THT,DIP to fix on PCB. The electronic components size of THT,DIP are about 5mmx5mm. If using SMT , the electronic components size are about 0.4mmx0.2mm.

About peeling Strength from EIA Standard-D (wikipedia)

4.11 in EIA Standard-D:

The cover tape for each style and material of carrier tape shall have a total peel strength of from 0.1 N to 1.0 N (10 grams to 100 grams calibrated scale reading) for 8 mm carrier tapes and 0.1N to 1.3 N (10 grams to 130 grams calibrated scale reading) for 12 mm to 56 mm wide carrier tapes and from 0.1N to 1.5 N (10 grams to 150 grams calibrated scale reading) for 72 mm and wider carrier tapes. Peel is defined as the separation of the full width of the cover tape from the carrier tape or the removal of the center portion of the cover tape from the carrier tape to enable component removal from the cavity. The direction of pull shall be opposite the direction of carrier tape travel such that the cover tape makes an angle of between 165 and 180 degrees with the top of the carrier tape. The cover tape, shall be pulled with a velocity of 300 mm±10 mm/minute, relative to the carrier tape, during peeling, which results in the cover/carrier tape seal being separated at a rate of 150 mm/minute.

About Cover Tape for SMT SMD, How many kind of cover tape type

Cover tape still can call: tape and reel, tape reel, SMD package, semiconductor tape, reel to reel, SMD reels, reel to reel tape, tape and reel packaging, electric reel, tape & reel packaging , , , A for semiconductor packaging, component packaging

Cover tape combine with carrier tape and use for package the semiconductor(IC) or Passive components seal electrical and electronic components, it have anti-static layers can anti-static(ESD) during packing, transport and storage. Both PSA and HAA cover tapes can be found in non-conductive and static-dissipative versions. Some cover tapes are termed anti-static which are usually perceived as being the same as static-dissipative cover tapes. Technically, anti-static refers to a material which does not generate a static charge when rubbed against a second material (triboelectric charging). Static dissipative refers to a material which can bleed off a charge through the mechanism which provides it’s surface resistivity.

When sealing an HAA cover tape, temperature refers to the indicated temperature of the sealing mechanism. Heat activated adhesives are dry to the touch at room temperature. The absence of any tackiness is the property that permits their ready handling under these conditions. Tackiness must be attained to get the adhesive to “stick” the cover tape to the carrier tape. To accomplish this, energy in the form of heat is used to “activate” the cover tape’s adhesive system. This activation is the process that raises the temperature of the adhesive until it achieves a level of tackiness which allows it to adhere to the carrier tape. But PSA cover tapes require different processing and handling than heat activated cover tapes and are generally considered to be easier to seal than their heat activated counterparts. The PSA adhesive is a synthetic adhesive formulated to remain tacky over a wide range of temperatures, including room temperature. Hence, PSA cover tapes require no heat to seal them to the carrier. To prevent components from sticking to the adhesive, a liner film is added to cover the adhesive in the center portion of the cover tape.

Force-One is a manufacturer of optical film in Taiwan. Our products of tape and reel have high quality, nice price can fit what you want. Our cover tape have more than 20 kinds for our customers, like: anti-static type, difference adhesive force, difference color, anti-high temperature. We can customized what you need, welcome to contact us.

Force-One's cover tape have very stable peeling strength for PS or PC carrier tape as below.

antistatic PSA Cover Tape (Normal Type)

Width: 5.4mm, 9.3mm, 13.3mm, 21.3mm, 25.5mm, 37.5mm, 49.5mm, 65.5mm, 81.5mm

The Benefits：

1.PET with Pressure Sensitive Adhesives combined with brown or Transparent anti-static film.

2.Excellent and stable quality . The aging (60℃ / 720hrs) and peeling force test had passed.

3.The value of anti-static is 10^9~11, It can prevent ESD issue.

4.Excellent sealing. Can meet any carrier tape of PC, PS, PET to seal.

5.Thickness: 60 ± 5 um. Can anti high temperatures before vacuum packaging ( 80℃) without peeling issue.

PSA Cover Tape(Heat-Resisting Type)

The Benefits：

1.PET with Pressure Sensitive Adhesives combined with brown or Transparent anti-static film.

2.Excellent and stable quality . The aging (60℃ / 720hrs) and peeling force test had passed.

3.The value of anti-static is 10^9~10^11, Adhesive is 10^8~10 It can prevent ESD issue.

4.Excellent sealing. Can meet any carrier tape of PC, PS, PET to seal.

5.Thickness: 60 ± 5 um. Can anti high temperatures before vacuum packaging (120℃) without peeling issue.

Want to know more, Welcome to Contact us

Read About "Sealing Heat Cover Tape"

>Cutting Line:

===The Introduction of Force-One's Cover Tape===

Force-One's is uniquely designed to peel through the film itself and available as static dissipative.The cover tapes for semiconductor(IC) or Passive components seal electrical and electronic components into Carrier Tapes, it have anti-static layers can anti-static(ESD) during packing, transport and storage. The cover tapes for semiconductor could combine excellent sealing properties with smooth peel force to protect IC or Passive components and permit efficient pick-and-place operations. The full line of Force-One's Cover Tapes includes conductive, non-conductive and static dissipative products with heat activated or pressure-sensitive adhesive.

Both PSA and HAA cover tapes can be found in non-conductive and static-dissipative versions. Some cover tapes are termed anti-static which are usually perceived as being the same as static-dissipative cover tapes. Technically, anti-static refers to a material which does not generate a static charge when rubbed against a second material (triboelectric charging). Static dissipative refers to a material which can bleed off a charge through the mechanism which provides it’s surface resistivity. A non-conductive material is defined as having a surface resistivity (Rs) greater than 10^12 ohms/square. Static dissipative material is defined as having a surface resistivity (Rs) between 10^5 ohms/square and 10^12 ohms/square. While conductive material is defined as having a surface resistivity (Rs) of less than 10^5 ohms/square.

The cover tapes(Tape & Reel) for semiconductor(IC) or Passive components is good for SMD/SMT(Surface-Mount Device / Surface-Mount Technology) process. And can anti-static cover tape for packaging of surface mount devices (ESD protection).

Common TDS: Thin:0.05~0.06 mm ; Transmittance: 60%~89% ; Haze: 3%~30% ; Anti-static: ≦10^9-11Ω/sq ; Working temperature:140℃ - 190℃ ; RA pass:55℃~60℃/720 hrs

Width: 5.4mm, 9.3mm, 13.3mm, 21.3mm, 25.5mm, 37.5mm, 49.5mm, 65.5mm, 81.5mm

◆Heat Activated Type (HAA)

1. Normal Type

2. Transparent Type

3. Conductive Type

Read More About "Heat Activated Cover Tape"

◆Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Sensitive (PSAs)

1. Normal Type

2. Conductive Type

3. Heat-Resisting Type

Sealing Heat Activated Cover Tape

For any heat-activated adhesive cover tape, as a general rule,increasing temperature, dwell time, and pressure on a given sealing machine will, within limits, increase adhesion (peel). However, for most of the HAA cover tapes available in the marketplace today, temperature and dwell will have a greater affect on adhesion than pressure. The ways these variables interact in the sealing process are of interest to anyone trying to control a packaging process.

>Normal Type Cover Tape

Similar as Common TDS

>Transparent Type Cover Tape

Special TDS: Transmittance: 89%

>Conductive Type Cover Tape

Special TDS: PET's anti-static: ≦10^5-10Ω/sq ; Adhesive anti-static: ≦10^9Ω/sq

Read More About "Sealing Heat Cover Tape"

Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Cover Tape

PSA cover tapes require different processing and handling than heat activated cover tapes and are generally considered to be easier to seal than their heat activated counterparts. The PSA adhesive is a synthetic adhesive formulated to remain tacky over a wide range of temperatures, including room temperature. Hence, PSA cover tapes require no heat to seal them to the carrier. To prevent components from sticking to the adhesive, a liner film is added to cover the adhesive in the center portion of the cover tape. PSA cover tapes are slightly more complex in their cons

>Normal Type-Cover Tape

Similar as Common TDS

>Conductive Type Cover Tape

Special TDS: Adhesive anti-static:≦10^3-5Ω/sq

>Heat-Resisting Type Cover Tape

Special TDS: Can Heat-Resisting: 125℃/8hr or 50℃/24hr

About Cover Tape

Cover tape still can call: tape and reel, tape reel, SMD package, semiconductor tape, reel to reel, SMD reels, reel to reel tape, tape and reel packaging, electric reel, tape & reel packaging , , , A for semiconductor packaging, component packaging

REFERENCES:FUNDAMENTALS OF PSA AND HEAT ACTIVATED COVER TAPE SEALING FOR COMPONENTS PACKAGED IN TAPE AND REEL

, , A

About Force-One

Force-One Applied Materials CO., LTD. is a professional optical film manufacturer. And have know how of formulas. We can meet difference specifications for every customer with high quality. Our customers are all over the world include America ,India , China ,Taiwan , Malaysia , Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia.

The company is the world’s best Anti Static Tape Manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

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The 8 Types Of ESD Tape To Use In Your Business | Bondline