Benefits
High Initial Adhesion
The high-tack acrylic adhesive provides relatively high initial adhesion, helping components achieve effective bonding shortly after application.
Dimensional Stability
The thin PET carrier helps maintain dimensional stability during converting, handling, die-cutting, and laminating operations.
Thin Bond Line
With approximately 0.051 mm total tape thickness, 55256P is suitable for applications where a thin adhesive construction is preferred.
Efficient Converting
The PET carrier provides improved handling characteristics and supports precision die-cutting and laminating, making the tape suitable for converted adhesive components.
Reliable Shear Holding
3M testing reports a typical static shear performance of 10,000 minutes under the specified test conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Property | 3M™ 55256P |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Double Coated PET Tape |
| Adhesive Type | Acrylic Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive |
| Carrier | Clear PET Film |
| Carrier Thickness | 0.012 mm |
| Face Adhesive Thickness | 0.019 mm |
| Back Adhesive Thickness | 0.019 mm |
| Total Tape Thickness | 0.051 mm (1.97 mil) |
| Color | Clear |
| Liner | White glassine with green 3M logo |
| Liner Thickness | 0.076 mm |
| Peel Adhesion to PC, 20 min | 7 N/cm |
| Peel Adhesion to Stainless Steel, 20 min | 7.5 N/cm |
| Peel Adhesion to PC, 72 h | 7.5 N/cm |
| Peel Adhesion to Stainless Steel, 72 h | 8 N/cm |
| Static Shear | 10,000 min |
| Long-Term Temperature | 80°C |
| Short-Term Temperature | 200°C |
| Shelf Life | 24 months when stored under specified conditions |
Values are typical performance data and should not be used as product specifications. Actual performance depends on substrate, surface condition, application method, environmental conditions, and other factors.
Applications
3M™ 55256P can be used for a variety of industrial bonding, laminating, and assembly applications, including:
- Foam lamination
- Mesh lamination
- Small gasket assembly
- Plastic film lamination
- Component mounting
- General-purpose bonding
- Industrial assembly
- Adhesive die-cut parts
- Electronic device components
- Thin material bonding
- Splicing and laminating applications
3M specifically identifies foam and mesh lamination for small gaskets in electronic devices as a recommended application.
Compatible Materials
3M™ 55256P can provide adhesion to a variety of substrates, including:
- Stainless steel
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- PET
- ABS
- Plastic films
- Foam materials
- Mesh materials
- Other common industrial substrates
Actual adhesion depends heavily on the substrate’s surface energy, cleanliness, texture, flexibility, and operating environment. For critical applications, testing on the actual substrate is recommended. 3M’s TDS reports representative peel adhesion results on stainless steel, polycarbonate, PET, and other surfaces.
Industries
Electronics
Suitable for small gaskets, foam lamination, mesh lamination, and component assembly in electronic devices.
Electrical & Components
The thin PET construction can be used for component mounting and insulating or protective material assembly where a thin double-sided adhesive construction is required.
Automotive
Can be considered for selected interior and component assembly applications where the substrate and environmental conditions are compatible.
Appliance
Useful for mounting and laminating lightweight components, films, foams, and gaskets.
Industrial Manufacturing
Suitable for general-purpose bonding, laminating, splicing, and die-cut adhesive components.
Converting & Die-Cutting
The PET carrier provides dimensional stability and supports precision converting processes such as laminating and die-cutting.
Why Choose 3M™ 55256P?
3M™ 55256P is a strong choice when an application requires a thin, high-tack double-sided PET tape with good dimensional stability and converting performance.
Its combination of:
- Thin 0.051 mm construction
- High-tack acrylic adhesive
- Clear PET carrier
- Good initial adhesion
- Good shear holding
- Die-cutting capability
- Laminating capability
makes it particularly suitable for manufacturers producing gaskets, foam components, mesh laminations, electronic components, and other precision adhesive parts.
For customized industrial tape requirements, 55256P can also be converted into custom-width rolls, strips, sheets, or precision die-cut adhesive parts, subject to application and production requirements.
Installation Guide
1. Prepare the Surface
Clean the bonding surface thoroughly and remove dust, oil, grease, moisture, and other contaminants.
2. Check the Substrate
Confirm that the substrate is compatible with the acrylic adhesive and that the surface provides sufficient contact area.
3. Apply the Tape
Apply 55256P smoothly to the first substrate while avoiding wrinkles, folds, and air bubbles.
4. Apply Pressure
Use firm, uniform pressure to promote intimate contact between the adhesive and substrate.
5. Remove the Liner
Carefully remove the liner without contaminating the exposed adhesive surface.
6. Bond the Second Surface
Align the second substrate carefully and apply uniform pressure.
7. Allow Adhesion to Develop
Adhesion can increase over time. For demanding applications, allow sufficient dwell time before evaluating final bond performance.
Important: Actual bonding performance depends on substrate, surface preparation, pressure, temperature, humidity, and application conditions. Always validate the tape under actual end-use conditions.
Storage
For best performance, store 3M™ 55256P:
- In the original packaging
- In a clean and dry environment
- At approximately 21°C (70°F)
- At approximately 50% relative humidity
- Away from direct sunlight and excessive heat
- Protected from moisture and contamination
The TDS indicates a 24-month shelf life from the date of manufacture when stored in the original cartons under the specified conditions. Once opened, 3M recommends resealing the tape in plastic film packaging after use to help prevent moisture absorption.
FAQ
What is 3M™ 55256P?
3M™ 55256P is a thin double-coated PET tape featuring a clear PET film carrier and high-tack acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive on both sides.
How thick is 3M™ 55256P?
The typical total tape thickness is approximately 0.051 mm (1.97 mil), excluding the liner.
What is the carrier material?
The carrier is a 0.012 mm clear PET film.
What type of adhesive does 55256P use?
It uses an acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive coated on both sides of the PET carrier.
Is 55256P suitable for die-cutting?
Yes. The PET carrier provides dimensional stability and makes the tape suitable for die-cutting and laminating processes.
Is 55256P suitable for electronics?
Yes. 3M specifically recommends 55256P for foam and mesh lamination for small gaskets in electronic devices.
What is the temperature resistance of 55256P?
The TDS lists a typical long-term operating temperature of 80°C and a short-term operating temperature of 200°C. These values should not be interpreted as universal application limits.
Can 55256P be converted into custom die-cut parts?
Yes. Its PET construction and converting characteristics make it suitable for die-cut adhesive components. The final design should be validated according to the customer’s substrate, geometry, application, and required performance.
What is the difference between 55256P and 55256?
3M’s current product information identifies the 55256 family as a double-coated PET tape. 55256P is the specific product designation used in the technical documentation, while product configurations and available sizes can vary by market.
Downloads
Available upon request:
- 3M™ Double Coated PET Tape 55256P Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Application Guide
- Product Brochure
- Custom Die-Cut Adhesive Solution Guide
Please contact our sales team if you require the latest technical documentation.
