Ductwork sealing tape - an essential accessory for the installer
Even an item as inconspicuous as sealing tape can perform an important function in the entire ventilation system. What types are there and why should it be used when installing a ventilation system in a building? Check it out!
What is ductwork sealing tape?
Ductwork sealing tape is a specialised product used in the ventilation industry to ensure the tightness of ducts and fitting connections. It is an essential accessory for any ductwork fitter, allowing a variety of systems to be sealed permanently and safely.
Sealing tapes have several key functions:
Most commonly, sealing tapes are made of aluminium foil. This material is used because of its flexibility, durability and high resistance to high and low temperatures. These properties make duct sealing tape an indispensable component in many installation and assembly jobs, providing an effective and long-lasting seal.
Types of ductwork sealing tape for ventilation pipes
There are several different types of tape for sealing ventilation ductwork. They are divided according to the material they are made of and their specific properties. Find out about all the varieties of ventilation tapes.
Smooth aluminium tapes
Smooth aluminium tapes are high-quality, self-adhesive aluminium foils with an acrylic adhesive and spacer. They are soft, flexible and adhere well to the substrate. TAL high-temperature aluminium tape is often used to join ducts and circular fittings, as it ensures the tightness and efficiency of ventilation systems. It effectively seals joints in flexible ducts and is reliable in the installation of ventilation and dust extraction systems. In addition, it works well in hot air distribution systems due to its resistance to high temperatures. When applied to insulation at bends and branches, it helps to maintain the continuity of the aluminium protective layer, preventing moisture penetration. The temperature resistance of TAL tape is up to 80°C and TAL-25 up to 250°C, making it a versatile accessory.
Metallized tapes
Metallised tapes, made from metallised PP film, are ideal for sealing and masking ventilation installations and bonding aluminium-coated mineral wool materials. MET aluminiumised adhesive tape provides a durable and effective seal while maintaining flexibility and strength, which is particularly important in areas requiring flexible joints. The temperature resistance of this tape is 80°C, making it suitable for many ventilation applications.
Aluminium fireplace tapes
Aluminium fireplace tapes, such as the TALK tape, are designed for sealing fireplace installations where temperatures can reach up to 300°C. Thanks to their high temperature resistance, these tapes provide a durable and effective seal, essential for the demanding operating conditions of fireplaces.
Mesh-reinforced aluminium tapes
Mesh-reinforced aluminium tapes are characterised by greater mechanical strength due to the fused fibres, making them ideal for sealing ventilation ducts. They are indispensable for insulating bends and branch points and at the joints of glass wool or mineral wool materials. Their main advantages are tear resistance and temperature-resistant adhesive.
Alnor offers various types of reinforced tapes, including the TALE tape, which has a mesh of glass fibre for increased tear resistance, and the TLV tape with diamond-shaped reinforcement. Both of these tapes have a temperature resistance of up to 80°C. The DUCT repair tape, which is additionally reinforced with fabric, is waterproof and effectively protects against moisture and weathering, and has a temperature resistance of 60°C.
Butyl tapes with aluminium foil
Butyl tapes with aluminium foil, such as TALT tape, are designed for sealing in the construction industry. Thanks to the flexible butyl, which does not crumble over time, they offer an alternative to bitumen compounds. TALT tape, made of self-adhesive butyl rubber with a thickness of 1 mm, is used to join ducts and circular fittings and flexible ducts. It can also be used to seal roof flashings at chimneys, roof windows, roof elements and other ventilation elements, even outdoors. The aluminium layer of this tape is 40 microns thick, ensuring a durable and effective seal.
PVC tapes
PVC sealing tapes, such as the TAPV tape, are made of 20-micron-thick PVC and coated on one side with a synthetic rubber-based adhesive. They are used for the connection of circular ducts and fittings and for flexible ducts, effectively protecting them from moisture and weathering. These tapes provide a durable and effective seal, ideal for taping pipes and ducts that are less exposed to the environment. Their great advantage is their stretchability, allowing a smooth surface after taping.
Duct sealing tapes - advantages
Duct sealing tapes, especially those made of aluminium foil, are characterised by high mechanical strength despite their low thickness. The main advantages of these tapes are protection against moisture and dirt and a barrier against heat penetration. They are ideal for protecting cable connections against moisture and vapour, especially in the case of flexible insulated cables.
The tapes are also ideal for sealing and masking welds and connections. They are distinguished by their excellent bonding and peeling strength between the adhesive and the substrate, as well as good initial adhesion and permanent bonding. In addition, they are characterised by high resistance to moisture, fire, temperature and ageing, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable seal in a variety of conditions.
How important is the choice of ventilation tape?
The right choice of ventilation tape is crucial to the proper operation of a ventilation system. The right tape ensures tight joints, protects against moisture and contamination and maintains the effectiveness of the ventilation system. Using the wrong tape can lead to leaks, which in turn can cause heat loss, condensation and even mechanical damage to the ducts.
When choosing a ventilation tape, several key criteria should be considered, such as:
It is important that the tape is suitable for the specific operating conditions and the type of joints to be sealed. Choosing a tape that is compatible with the requirements of the system ensures its long-term and reliable operation.