For any given trailer, there are dozens of potential tape products in use. Here, we’ll take a quick dive into the five most common applications and suggested tape solutions.

Five Most Common Tape Applications in Trailer Manufacturing

1. Attachment and Bonding
2. Masking and Surface Protection
3. Sealing and Weatherproofing
4. Electrical and Cable Management
5. Anti-Slip and Safety

Attachment and Bonding

In trailer manufacturing, metal parts are traditionally joined using welding or mechanical fasteners, but each hole created for fasteners can weaken structural integrity. By replacing fasteners with high-performance tape solutions, manufacturers can preserve material strength, reduce overall weight, and allow for greater flexibility as the trailer experiences stress. Products like high bond acrylic foam tapes and double-sided tapes are widely used for permanent bonding in applications like emblem and trim attachment, interior panel mounting, and carpet or floor installation. 

BT-9771 is a 40 mil high-bond tape built for attachment and bonding in automotive and specialty vehicle applications. BT-9771 adheres to challenging surfaces like powder coatings and plastics, making it ideal for mounting ABS panels, sealing joints, and other permanent bonding requirements. 

Designed to absorb and dissipate high dynamic loads, BT-9771 ensures secure, long-lasting fastening for a wide range of high-bond applications.

Masking and Surface Protection

Several assembly and delivery processes rely on masking and surface protection products to ensure a high-quality finish. During painting, masking tape is essential for covering doors and windows, protecting delicate surfaces, and creating precise paint lines. For more demanding applications, customers choose tapes like BT-7700. A green polyester masking tape with a high-temperature silicone adhesive, BT-7700 can withstand temperatures up to 392°F for 30 minutes while still allowing for clean removal in powder coating applications. 

In the final stages of transport and delivery, surface protection products such as UV-resistant films and masking tape help shield both the exterior and interior of the trailer. These products are commonly used on delicate surfaces, window and door handles, glass, and metal trim to maintain a flawless product during handling and transit. 

Sealing and Weatherproofing

When there’s a will, water will find a way. Permanent sealing and weatherproofing products are essential for keeping interiors dry. In trailers with living quarters, proper sealing prevents water from entering livable spaces, while in horse and stock trailers, it keeps animals and equipment dry. Foam tapes are a popular choice for weatherstripping and gasketing around potential water intrusion points, though high-bond, flashing, and butyl tapes are also effective options. 

One standout product is BT-2503, which offers a unique combination of flexibility, strength, and wear resistance. A closed-cell foam forms a long-lasting seal that blocks air, moisture, light, and dust when compressed, providing reliable protection in a variety of trailer manufacturing applications. With BT-2503, you can ensure that trailers stay dry and secure, no matter the forecast. 

Electrical and Cable Management

To be street legal, all trailers must have properly functioning brake and turn signal lights, and keeping the wiring organized is essential. Trailer manufacturers rely on quality electrical tapes to secure and identify wires effectively. One solution is BT-48 PVC Electrical Tape, designed for simple, clean wire identification and management, and application that’s quicker, easier, and more precise than ever. 

Anti-Slip and Safety

You’ll find anti-slip and safety marking tapes on most trailers. With steps and walkways, highly textured tapes help prevent slips and trips, while reflective safety tapes, such as CDOT-compliant options, make the trailer more visible to other vehicles in low-light conditions.  

For specific product recommendations in the trailer manufacturing space, reach out to an Application Specialist!