Flash Masking & Hold Down Tapes for Composite Molding
Metal is increasingly replaced by composites in manufacturing large industrial parts, especially for the aerospace or wind energy sector. Composite molding allows for strong performance with reduced part weight, facilitated manufacturing in one piece, resulting in less seams or holes. Flash masking or flash breaker tapes can be applied to the outside of the composite build-up on the mold to prevent excess resin contamination, leaving a clean masking line without residue. Together with hold down tapes that help attaching composite layers to the mold release tape, flash masking tapes push the efficiency of the production process, especially by preventing from silicone traces and therefore eliminating orange peel effects in the downstream painting process.
Polyimide tapes
Where superior functionality and temperature resistance is needed, like in demanding aerospace applications, polyimide tapes are the ideal choice. Combined with temperature-resistant silicone or rubber adhesives, they maintain reliable functionality during the autoclave curing process.
Polyester tapes
Polyester tapes are the more economical option and perform well for most composite molding processes. These tapes protect the tool from resin and are typically 1 or 2 inches wide. If resin leaks out during the process, remove the tape and it removes the overage without leaving silicone traces which is critical for further painting processes.
Flash Masking & Hold Down Tapes Material Selection Guide
| Adhesive | .001 in (.025 mm) | .002 in (.050 mm) | Short Term Temp. Rating (1–5 hours) °F (°C) | Product Features |
| Silicone | K201 | K202 | 600°F (310°C) | High temperature flash & hold down tape |
| Adhesive | .001 in (.025 mm) | .002 in (.050 mm) | .005 in (.127 mm) | Short Term Temp. Rating (1–5 hours) °F (°C) | Product Features |
| Rubber | M851 green | M852 green | M855 green | 400°F (200°C) | Non-silicone flash & hold down tape |
| – | M783 pink | – | High adhesion, non-silicone flash & hold down tape | ||
| Silicone | M824 blue | M832 blue | M895 blue | Economy flash tape & hold down tape | |
| – | M887 emerald | – | Economy flash tape & hold down tape — alternative color |
