Electrical tape is an essential tool for any homeowner or professional electrician. With so many uses, it’s no wonder that this versatile product is a staple in most toolboxes.

Electricians have critical jobs. Keeping our world powered requires concentration, knowledge and skill. Some of the most dangerous work is done by electricians working on medium and high voltage applications. Ethylene propylene and silicone rubber electrical tapes have the highest dielectric rating of electrical tapes made by 3M and are a trusted product in the toolbox of most medium and high voltage linemen and installers. With proper wrapping, their self-fusing properties help to eliminate voids in critical areas that may cause catastrophic failures .

Tape thickness is usually measured in the United States in “mils”, or thousandths of an inch (1/1000”). The thickness can be measured from the bottom of the adhesive surface to the top of the outer surface or simply the film itself. In most cases, the thicker the tape the stronger and more durable it is. This is referred to as tensile strength. Thinner tape tends to be used for lightweight or temporary applications whereas thicker material is required for sealing heavy boxes and other heavy-duty applications. Duct tape is a great example of a thick adhesive roll whereas painting tape is often very thin and hand tearable.