Double-sized 3M tape: are you using it properly?

When repairing mobile phones, double-sided adhesive tape is mainly used for gluing the touch screen to the base plate.  However, it can also be used for many other service operations.  Sticking it on looks like a simple activity that a child can do in primary school.  But if you neglect a few basic rules, the tape may not be able to serve its purpose well enough.

In particular, you should follow these basic rules to avoid the problem of premature tape release.

Double-sided ahesive tape and its proper storage 

Improper storage of 3M adhesive tape may result in it being unable to fulfill its purpose 100%.  It cannot withstand the required forces, but rather fails and can cause problems even during gluing.

What should we imagine under improper storage?

• Double-sided 3M tape should not be stored for a long time at low temperatures (less than 18 degrees Celsius), but again even at too high a temperature.  High temperature fluctuations result in the initiation of chemical processes in the adhesive composition, as a result of which it loses its original properties.
• You should not store the tape in an excessively humid or dusty environment.
• It is also important not to expose it to direct sunlight.  UV rays can easily impair its adhesive properties.
• The ideal solution is to store it at room temperature, in a box that will protect it from dust.

Can the display tape withstand a high load?

At first glance, it might seem that the display of the mobile phone is not exposed to any great forces, i.e. the resistance of the tape to tensile stress does not need to be solved in any way.  But that is a mistake.  You carry the phone in your pocket, bend it and press it.  There are slight movements between the display and the base plate, which strain the adhesive.

Of course, the display tape may not be as durable as an adhesive to building structures.  However, do not underestimate its power and rather choose a version that is high quality and can withstand greater forces.  Better to have an oversized joint that can withstand everything than an undersized one where you never know when it will fall apart unexpectedly.

Pay attention to the temperature

When you type "double-sided mobile tape" into a Google search, you'll see a number of different results.  However, the tape is not like tape.  When choosing a specific one, pay particular attention to the temperature range at which it can ensure adequate adhesive ability.

Conventional double-sided display tape generally does not work optimally at sub-freezing temperatures.  To be sure that it can maintain its adhesive ability even during the winter, choose a quality version designed for such conditions.  At the same time, however, keep in mind the high temperatures that are common with smartphones.

Tip: All 3M double-sided adhesive tapes that you will find on our e-shop are of high quality and meet all the necessary criteria for servicing mobile phones and other electronics.

Proper gluing approach 

When you have purchased a high-quality double-sided tape, it is time for gluing.  The ideal procedure should look like this:

1. Thoroughly clean and degrease the two surfaces you are going to glue together.  Use a high-quality cloth that does not leave threads and technical petrol or alcohol.
2. Dry the surfaces thoroughly and start applying the tape immediately so that they do not have to be attacked by dust from the surroundings.
3. Bond at temperatures above 15 degrees Celsius.
4. When gluing the tape, keep your hands clean to avoid dust or grease.
5. After sticking the tape to the first surface, press it firmly in all places.
6. Peel off the foil and press the second glued surface onto the tape.  Pressurize to ensure that the adhesive adheres properly to both surfaces and forms a firm bond.

Done, a quality connection is in the world!  If you follow the tips mentioned above, you can be sure that the double-sided 3M tape will not disappoint you.  Whatever you glue.