Electrical Insulation Tapes

Stylus Tapes: Trusted Electrical Tape Suppliers

Electrical tape is a professional-grade adhesive tape used across various industries. It is valued for its insulating properties and versatility in electrical applications. 

At Stylus Tapes, we’re one of Australia’s leading wholesaler of high-quality electrical tapes, serving industrial sectors and professional electricians. Our electrical tapes are available in different widths and colours, perfect for colour-coding and organising wires. 

What is electrical tape?

Electrical tape is a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape used to insulate electrical wires, providing essential safety and protection in various electrical projects. It is made from non-adhesive self fusing silcone or PVC  with a natural rubber adhesive that protects against non-conductive corrosion. 

PVC as a backing gives electrical tape greater elasticity than other types of tape. This allows it to stretch over wires and conform to any shape and size, making it perfect for electricians working in tight spaces. 

Self fusing silicone is non-adhesive and will not leave residue if removed. The product can stretch up to 3 times its length.

They’re designed to be non-conductive and offer excellent elasticity, allowing them to stretch and conform to the shape of wires and connectors.

What are some common uses for electrical tape?

Electrical tape is a staple in the toolkit of any electrician or technician, used for:

• Colour coding: Available in different colours, it denotes different wires for different circuits or appliances.
• Circuit insulation: Non-conductive properties protect exposed wiring, preventing short circuits and providing a protective barrier against accidental contact.
• Wire bundling: It can be used to bundle different types of wire together to assist with organisation.
• Arc and corrosion protection: Electrical tape covers exposed wires to protect them against potential arcs and corrosion caused by environmental factors.
• Temporary repairs: These are ideal for quick fixes on cables and connectors. However, they are not a permanent replacement remedy.

What are the different types of electrical tape?

There are three main types of available electrical tape.

• Standard vinyl electrical tape: This is the most commonly used type and is suitable for general insulation and maintenance tasks. It is available in multiple colours for coding and organisational purposes.
• Heavy-duty electrical tape: Offers much stronger adhesion and better heat resistance for larger wires and high-current applications, such as those found in industrial machinery and heavy appliances.
• Stretch and seal tape: This is made with a self-amalgamating silicone compound with a cellophane liner and is used for repairing and sealing broken pipes and hoses.

How to use electrical tape?

Proper use of electrical tape is crucial for ensuring safety during electrical projects. Follow these guidelines:

1. Prepare the wire: Ensure your wire is clean and dry before you apply the tape to promote maximum adhesion and insulation.
2. Wrap the tape: Start wrapping the tape at the end of the exposed wire, half-overlapping the tape carefully with each turn.
3. Complete coverage: Ensure the wire is fully covered, avoiding gaps to ensure proper insulation.

Safety precautions

Working with electricity should never be taken lightly, so here are a few safety precautions to take note of:

• Never use electrical tape for permanent repairs. Temporary repairs only.
• Electrical tape should not be used where it might be exposed to moisture, as it is not waterproof and can lose its adhesive properties when wet.
• Always inspect your wiring before applying the tape. Check for damage, such as splicing or stripping.
• To maintain insulation integrity, regularly check the condition of the tape for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.

Is electrical tape waterproof? 

Electrical tape is not waterproof. Despite being a good insulator for wiring, it will not protect your electrical wire from water damage. When the electrical tape gets wet, it loses its elasticity, and the rubber adhesive loses strength. 

Do not use electrical tape to cover wires that may come into contact with water or liquids, as it won’t offer any protection.

Is gaffer tape the same as electrical tape? 

No. The two are not the same product. While electrical tape and gaffer tape share similar strength properties, electrical tape is more elastic and is more difficult to tear from a surface. 

Do not use gaffer tape instead of electrical tape when doing DIY electrical maintenance.

How to choose the right electrical tape? 

Choosing the right electrical tape will ensure safety and efficiency in electrical projects. Consider the following:

• Temperature resistance: For high-temperature environments, you need heavy-duty tapes that can withstand increased heat levels.
• Conformability: Choose tapes that can easily conform to the shape and size of your wires and connectors, enhancing their protective capabilities.
• Colour-Coding: If your industry requires clear identification of wires, choose coloured tapes to facilitate organisation.

Why choose Stylus Tapes? 

At Stylus Tapes, we pride ourselves on being one of the best PVC electrical tape wholesalers in Australia. We provide tapes in many colours, widths, and thicknesses. 

We offer:

• An extensive range of electrical tapes for diverse applications.
• High-performance products for durability and safety.
• Expert advice and ongoing customer support.

For any inquiries or to discuss our range of electrical tapes, contact us today.