Frequently Asked Questions
What Tape Do I Need?
The answer depends on what you want to achieve using Dunstone tape, i.e., ply compaction, intermediate debulk, resin rich surface finish, or release. High shrink percentage tapes are used for ply compaction and debulking wraps. Most of our shrink tapes, regardless of shrink percentage will impart a high gloss resin rich finish to the composite surface below. Dunstone offers release coated versions of our Hi-Shrink Tapes for release characteristics, or non-shrink release films in standard, and high temperature versions.
How Much Tape Should I use on my part?
The more tape used, the higher the compaction force on the underlying part. Dunstone recommends testing with Hi-Shrink 220 Tape, using a 50% overlap. If the results of the test indicate insufficient compaction, then increase the tape overlap in subsequent tests to increase compaction. If the test indicates too much compressive force, then decrease overlap to decrease compaction. If you find you need more compressive force than Hi-Shrink 220 tape provides, then look to our 3mil or 5mil products for maximum compaction.
Do I need a release coated or non-release coated product?
Resin chemistry and rheology varies greatly and Dunstone cannot predict if a release coating is required in a particular application. We suggest that a customer begin testing with a non-release coated product, and if the tape exhibits difficulty in removal after cure, then test with the release coated version.
Do I Need Perforated tape?
Perforated tape is a useful tool when trying to evacuate volatiles or water vapor from the curing resin system. It is not intended as a way to increase resin squeeze out during cure. It is normal to see resin squeeze out between the layers of non perforated tape, and it is generally not necessary to move to a perforated product unless you are seeing surface finish irregularities attributable to the presence of volatiles or water vapor.