Reinforced White Water Active Tape

What is Water Active Tape?

Water Activated Tape (WAT), a paper-based tape, features a dry adhesive that becomes sticky once water is applied. This transformation turns the adhesive into a tacky substance that strongly adheres to corrugated boxes, making it a dedicated solution for securely closing them. Unlike other tapes in the packaging industry, WAT is specifically designed for this purpose.

WAT comes in two main types: reinforced and non-reinforced. The reinforced variant includes fibers, typically made of fiberglass or polyester, that are embedded between two layers of kraft paper with a laminating adhesive, significantly enhancing its strength. This makes it particularly suited for packages undergoing parcel shipping due to its increased durability.

On the other hand, non-reinforced WAT lacks these reinforcement fibers, making it less durable but more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. It’s most commonly used for lighter boxes or those that are palletized rather than shipped individually.

A distinct feature of WAT, for both reinforced and non-reinforced versions, is its ability to penetrate the fibers of the corrugated box. The adhesive dries quickly, within 5-7 seconds, bonding the tape and box so strongly that the tape can only be removed by damaging the seal. This provides a tamper-evident indication that the box has been opened.

WAT is sold in rolls, with a popular domestic US size being 72mm (2.83 inches) wide and 137m (450 feet) long, typically packaged ten rolls per box. For higher volume users, longer rolls are available, such as 500 feet, 600 feet, and 1000 feet options, to minimize roll changes and boost productivity at packaging stations.

Advantages of Using Water Active Tape (WAT) ?

1. Powerful Bonding:

The moistened adhesive of WAT is designed to interact with the porous surfaces of corrugated boxes, creating a strong and secure bond. This ensures that packages remain closed and items inside are protected during transit.

2. Tamper-Evident Seal:

One of the standout features of WAT is its ability to form a tamper-evident seal. If someone attempts to remove the tape before delivery, it shreds, making it immediately obvious that the box has been tampered with. This adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind for both senders and recipients.

3. Ease of Use:

Thanks to its paper construction, WAT is easy to handle and ideal for hand applications. This makes it a user-friendly option for businesses of all sizes, whether they’re sealing a few boxes a day or managing larger volumes.

4. Tool-Free Opening:

While WAT ensures boxes are securely sealed, it also allows for easy opening without the need for cutting tools. This can enhance the unboxing experience for the recipient and reduce the risk of damage to the contents or the person opening the box.

5. Environmental and Operational Efficiency:

Coreless rolls of WAT not only reduce waste but also simplify the process of changing rolls. This efficiency can save time and reduce the environmental impact associated with packaging, aligning with sustainability goals of many companies.