Electrical Tape, Mastics & Special Use Tapes IronwoodPremium 243205 Catalog-On-Demand1.QXD 7/10/2013 11:25 PM Page 7 3M Electrical Tape, Mastics & Special Use Tapes Plastic vinyl emerged on the mass market in the early 1940s. The flexible, highly versatile material greatly improved a variety of products, ranging from shower curtains and raincoats to wire and cable insulation. However, a pressure-sensitive plastic vinyl tape remained elusive. The substance TCP (tricresyl phosphate) used as a plasticizer in vinyl film stymied early efforts to create a tape. The TCP would migrate into the adhesive and degrade it. After much work, 3M discovered a solution. In 1946, three 3M researchersEsther Eastwold with R. Snell and R. Oaceinvented a platicizer system that would remain stable and not ruin the adhesive. That same year, 3M released the first known successful pressure-sensitive vinyl electrical tape, then named Scotch No. 33 Tape. Lion Manufacturing Company purchased the first roll and used it for harness wrapping. Vinyl electrical tape marked a leap forward in electrical tape technology. Previously, electricians generally used tape made of tar-coated cotton and vulcanized rubber adhesive. The tape was prone to rotting, lacked strength and flexibility, and had to be applied over a layer of rubber tape to insulate a conductor. Moreover, the tape s rubber adhesive, vulcanized with sulfer, could cause corrosion. 3M vinyl electrical tape was stretchy, strong and did not contain corrosive sulfur. It was better than the tar- coated cloth tape because it was much easier and faster to apply and required less space. In 1966, 3M introduced Super 33 tape. More flexible than its predecessor, it could be used at temperatures down to 10F (-12C) and up to 176F (80C). Never satisfied, 3M researchers began working on the next generation of electrical tape to further improve performance in extreme temperatures. In 1969, 3M introduced Scotch 33+ tape, featuring the industry s first known 221F (105C) rating for plastic vinyl electrical tape. Next, 3M scientists sought to upgrade the tape s handling characteristics and holding power without jeopardizing its adhesion properties. That work resulted in Scotch Super 33+ Professional Grade Vinyl PHONE: 800-245-3573 www.3M.com/Electrical 7IronwoodPremium 243205 Catalog-On-Demand1.QXD 7/10/2013 11:25 PM Page 8 Electrical Tape, launched in 1985. It stretches easily at temperatures down to 0F (-18C) and is rated for continuous operation up to 221F (105C). The stretchier backing and more aggressive adhesive system ensure ease of application and provide excellent mechanical protection, sealing capability and electrical insulation integrity. Over the past 70 years, 3M has developed long standing expertise in tape technology. Since the invention of vinyl electrical tape in 1946, the 3M Electrical Markets Division research group has never stopped experimenting and inventing so that we can provide better solutions to meet our customers challenges. Section Page Vinyl Electrical Tapes ............................................................................12-18 Sealing and Insulating Mastic Tapes ..................................................19-23 Insulating and Splicing Rubber Tapes.................................................24-31 Special Use Tapes.................................................................................32-42 Scotch Barricade Tapes .....................................................................43-46 Packaging and Palletizing Tapes............................................................47-56 Corrosion Protection Tapes and Primer..................................................57-60 Wireless Weatherproofing Kits...............................................................61-62 8 FAX: 800-245-0329 Electrical Tape, Mastics & Special Use Tapes