Conversions
The construction industry operates on a global scale. Nonetheless, measurement standards differ significantly outside the US. For some values, finding an accurate calculator proved challenging.
We have chosen the most frequently used measurements to help you with conversions.
Overview
Below you will find the following calculators:
Surface Energy Overview
Surface energy is a critical factor in determining how well an adhesive tape adheres to a material. Materials are categorized based on their surface energy, measured in millinewtons per meter (mN/m). The higher the surface energy, the better the adhesion potential. This concept is especially relevant in construction and manufacturing, where effective bonding ensures reliability and durability.
Ink Test
A simple way to measure a material's surface energy is by using the ink test. Apply a drop of ink to the surface:
- If the ink spreads out, the surface energy is high, and bonding is easy.
- If the ink beads up, the surface energy is low, requiring specialized tapes or surface treatments for effective adhesion.
Surface Energy Categories
| Material | Abbreviation | Surface Energy (mN/m) | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Energy Surfaces | Require primers or special tapes | ||
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) | PTFE | 18 | Difficult to bond without treatment |
| Silicone | SI | 24 | Needs surface preparation |
| Polyvinylfluoride (PVF) | PVF | 25 | Needs special adhesives |
| Polypropylene (PP) | PP | 29 | Requires low-energy tapes |
| Polyethylene (PE) | PE | 31 | Often pre-treated for bonding |
| High Energy Surfaces | Compatible with standard tapes | ||
| Polyvinylchloride (PVC) | PVC | 39 | Excellent bonding |
| Polyester (PET) | PET | 41 | High compatibility |
| Polyurethane (PUR) | PUR | 43 | Strong adhesion |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | PC | 46 | Easy bonding |
| Metals (Aluminum, Iron) | AL, Fe | 840, 2030 | Outstanding adhesion |
Why This Matters
For tapes like Oskorp's ONE 4 ALL Tape, understanding the material's surface energy ensures optimal application. While high-energy surfaces generally allow for easier bonding, low-energy materials require innovative solutions such as specialized adhesives or pre-treatments. With Oskorp’s extensive range of tapes, including those designed for low-energy surfaces, reliable bonding is achievable across all material types.