Tough tests translate to tapes testimonial

The UL 746C standard covers parts made of polymeric materials and involves various physical tests undertaken to assess their performance and suitability for use in electrical equipment evaluations. To reach the standard, the tapes were put through an intensive testing programme covering three separate elements and conducted in accordance with the individual product's recommended temperature ratings, in order to achieve the most precise results. This included a cycle test where all the tapes were repeatedly immersed in water for 24 hours, then maintained for 96 hours at 35°C with 95% relative humidity, before being exposed to a temperature of -35°C for 8 hours. This cycle was repeated 3 times. The tapes were then stored for 120 days at temperatures of at least 35°C above their recommended temperature rating before dynamic shear tests were conducted and the tapes were finally stored for 7 days at 60°C, with 95% relative humidity. tesa claims that its ACXplus range is now well recognised for its viscoelastic properties, which provide a level of stress dissipation that allows substrates with different rates of thermal expansion and contraction to be reliably joined. The temperature, weather and chemical resistance provided by the product means it can be used for long-term outdoor applications and materials can be effectively bonded without damaging or changing them. tesa ACXplus 707x offers the highest long-term resistance against extreme temperatures in combination with outstanding cold-shock resistance. This makes it ideal for use on a wide range of outdoor electrical applications such as signs or junction boxes, and especially where mechanical fastenings leave materials potentially vulnerable to corrosion. The UL 746C rating bolsters tesa ACXplus' growing list of credentials, confirming its suitability for use in long term and outdoor applications, the company explains.