In modern packaging and logistics, ensuring your boxes are securely sealed is crucial. Water activated tape has become a preferred choice for businesses seeking strong, reliable, and eco-friendly sealing solutions. But what exactly is water activated tape, and why is it different from traditional packaging tapes?
What is Water Activated Tape?
Water activated tape (WAT), also known as gummed tape, is a type of packaging tape made from paper or reinforced kraft materials coated with a water-activated adhesive. When moistened, the adhesive bonds chemically with corrugated cardboard, forming a seal that is stronger than the box itself.
Reinforced versions of WAT include fiberglass filaments embedded within the tape, providing extra tensile strength for heavy-duty applications. Unlike pressure-sensitive tapes, which rely on stickiness alone, water activated tape creates a permanent, tamper-evident seal that resists peeling, splitting, or tearing.
How Does Water Activated Tape Work?
Water activated tape works through a simple but effective process:
- Moistening the Tape: The adhesive is activated when exposed to water.
- Application to Box: Once wet, the tape is pressed onto the cardboard surface.
- Chemical Bond Formation: As the tape dries, it forms a chemical bond with the fibers of the cardboard, creating a seal stronger than the box itself.
This process ensures that packages remain secure during shipping and handling, reducing the risk of damage or tampering.
Key Benefits of Water Activated Tape
- Superior Strength and Security
Reinforced WAT provides a strong seal capable of handling heavy or long-distance shipments. - Tamper-Evident
Attempts to remove the tape will damage the cardboard, making tampering obvious and protecting your products. - Eco-Friendly
Made from kraft paper and biodegradable adhesives, WAT supports sustainable packaging initiatives. - Professional Appearance
Creates clean, uniform seals that enhance the presentation of your packages. - Easy to Use
Compatible with manual or automatic water activated tape dispensers, making application fast and efficient.
Applications of Water Activated Tape
- E-Commerce and Retail: Ensures parcels are securely sealed and branded with tamper-evident protection.
- Industrial Shipping: Heavy-duty reinforced tape secures boxes and pallets for long-distance transport.
- Warehousing: Protects inventory while providing easy identification of tampered packages.
- Branding Opportunities: Custom-printed WAT allows logos, slogans, or graphics to be applied directly on packaging.
How to Use Water Activated Tape
- Prepare the Box: Clean and dry the cardboard surface.
- Activate the Adhesive: Moisten the tape with water, either using a sponge, spray, or water activated tape dispenser.
- Apply Tape to Box: Firmly press along seams and edges, smoothing out wrinkles.
- Allow to Bond: Let the tape dry, forming a permanent, tamper-evident seal.
For high-volume operations, an automatic WAT dispenser can accelerate the process and maintain consistent adhesion.
Why Choose Water Activated Tape Over Traditional Tape?
Compared to standard pressure-sensitive tape, water activated tape offers:
- Permanent Adhesion: Forms a chemical bond with cardboard.
- Tamper-Evident Security: Prevents theft or accidental opening.
- Reinforced Strength: Handles heavier shipments and stacked boxes.
- Sustainability: Made from recyclable, biodegradable materials.
- Professional Appearance: Enhances packaging aesthetics for brand-conscious businesses.
These advantages make water activated tape the preferred choice for businesses that want secure, reliable, and environmentally responsible packaging.
Conclusion
Water activated tape is a modern, efficient, and secure solution for sealing boxes and parcels. By creating a strong, tamper-evident bond with cardboard, it ensures products reach customers safely while supporting sustainability and professional presentation. Whether for e-commerce, industrial shipping, or warehouse operations, WAT is an essential tool for businesses that value quality, reliability, and efficiency.
Request a Quote Today to source high-quality water activated tape and elevate your packaging operations.
Location: Carewell Group Pty Ltd, Unit 27/191, McCredie Road, Smithfield, NSW 2164
Phone: +61 0477 123 699
Email: sales@carewellgroup.com.au | info@carewellgroup.com.au | logistics@carewellgroup.com.au
