.png){kind=logo}
2026.01.19
Automotive Tape Buying Guide: 5 Key Applications of PVC Tape in the Automotive Industry
Share On
In modern automotive manufacturing, every vehicle utilizes over 50 different types of industrial tapes. From wire harness protection to interior fixing, from waterproofing to color identification, automotive PVC tape has become a critical material ensuring vehicle safety, reliability, and production efficiency. Particularly with the rapid development of electric vehicles, high-voltage electrical systems demand even stricter requirements for insulation tape.
This comprehensive guide explores five core applications of PVC tape in the automotive industry, helping procurement professionals, engineers, and manufacturers select professional automotive tapes that meet international standards.
Why Does the Automotive Industry Choose PVC Tape?
Core Advantages of PVC Tape
- Exceptional Electrical Insulation Performance
- Dielectric strength up to 1,100-4,000V
- Compliant with IEC 60454 international electrical standards
- Suitable for low to medium voltage cable systems
- Outstanding Environmental Adaptability
- Temperature range: -18°C to 105°C
- Excellent weather resistance, UV-resistant, moisture-proof, dust-proof
- Chemical corrosion resistant, suitable for harsh conditions
- Superior Mechanical Properties
- Tensile strength: 2-3.5 kgs/cm
- Elongation: 150-200%
- Hand-tearable, enhancing operational efficiency
- Comprehensive Safety Certifications
- UL Listed, VDE certified
- Tier-2 OEM automotive manufacturer verified
- RoHS and REACH compliant
Application 1: Wire Harness Wrapping & Cable Bundling
Application Scenario
Automotive wire harnesses are the vehicle's "nervous system." An average passenger car contains over 1,500 wires with a total length reaching 4 kilometers. The primary functions of wire harness tape include:
- Protecting wires from friction and abrasion
- Securing and bundling multiple cables
- Providing electrical insulation protection
- Color identification for different circuit systems
Product Specification Requirements
| Technical Indicator | Standard Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 0.09-0.115 mm | Thin design, doesn't increase harness volume |
| Adhesion | ≥0.25 kg/cm | Ensures long-term fixation without detachment |
| Tensile Strength | 3.5 kgs/25mm | Withstands mechanical stress |
| Breakdown Voltage | 4，000V | High-voltage harness protection |
| Elongation | 150% | Tightly conforms to irregular shapes |
Why Do Tier-2 OEM Manufacturers Specify This?
Tier-2 automotive manufacturer verified wire harness tape means the product has undergone rigorous testing:- High-temperature aging test (continuous operation at 80°C)
- Low-temperature flexibility test (no cracking at -40°C)
- Vibration durability test (simulating vehicle driving vibration)
- Chemical compatibility test (oil-resistant, solvent-resistant)
Purchasing Recommendations
✅ Priority Selection:- Tier-2 OEM certified products
- Multiple color options available (black, red, blue, yellow, green)
- Hand-tearable design, enhancing production line efficiency
- Natural rubber adhesive, long-lasting stable adhesion
Application 2: Electrical Insulation & Joint Protection
Application Scenario
In automotive electrical systems, wire joints, solder points, and branch connections are the most vulnerable areas for short circuits and electrical leakage. Key functions of electrical insulation tape include:
- Insulating low to medium voltage cable joints
- Preventing wire short circuits and leakage
- Protecting solder points from corrosion
- Providing moisture and dust sealing
Importance of VDE/UL Certification
VDE (German Association of Electrical Engineers) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certifications are internationally recognized electrical safety standards:| Certification Standard | Test Items | Applicable Markets |
|---|---|---|
| VDE IEC 60454 | Insulation strength, flame retardancy, temperature resistance | Europe, Asia |
| UL Listed | Electrical safety, flame propagation | North America, Global |
| CSA | Canadian electrical standards | North America |
Product Technical Characteristics
Insulation Strength:
- 1，000-1，100 Volts/mil
- Meets low to medium voltage cable system requirements
- Effectively prevents arcing and short circuits
Flame Retardant Performance:
- Self-extinguishing PVC material
- Compliant with UL 94 V-0 flame retardant grade
- Reduces fire risk
Environmental Tolerance:
- Operating temperature: 0°C to 90°C
- Low-temperature flexibility: maintains elasticity at -10°C
- High-temperature stability: no degradation with long-term use at 80°C
Purchasing Recommendations
✅ Key Considerations:- Must have VDE or UL certification
- Confirm insulation strength meets application voltage
- Select products with high flame retardant grade
- Check RoHS/REACH environmental compliance
Application 3: Pipe Marking & Color Coding
Application Scenario
Modern vehicles feature complex hydraulic, cooling, and fuel line systems. Primary functions of pipe marking tape:
- Distinguishing different fluid lines (coolant, engine oil, brake fluid, fuel)
- Quick identification for maintenance locations
- Compliance with factory 5S management standards
- Enhancing maintenance efficiency and safety
Standardized Color System
Common automotive pipe color coding:| Color | Pipe Type | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 🔴 Red | High pressure/hazardous fluids | Brake fluid, transmission fluid |
| 🔵 Blue | Cooling system | Radiator, heat exchanger |
| 🟡 Yellow | Warning zones | High-temperature pipes, exhaust system |
| 🟢 Green | Safe/eco-friendly fluids | Refrigerant, eco-friendly coolant |
| ⚫ Black | General protection | General pipe wrapping |
Product Performance Requirements
Thickness & Strength:
- Thickness: 0.13-0.20 mm
- Tensile strength: 2 kgs/cm
- Elongation: 200% (tightly conforms to pipes)
Weather Resistance:
- UV aging resistant
- Moisture-proof, dust-proof, oil-proof
- Chemical corrosion resistant
Purchasing Recommendations
✅ Best Choice:- Complete color series available (at least 5 colors)
- Excellent weather resistance and chemical resistance
- Suitable for HVAC and pipe wrapping
- SABER (Middle East) or SGS certified
Application 4: Corrosion Protection & Waterproofing
Application Scenario
Automotive chassis, engine compartments, and exhaust systems are exposed long-term to high temperatures, moisture, and chemical environments. Anti-corrosion PVC tape provides:
- Rust protection for metal pipes
- Waterproof sealing for joints
- Isolation from corrosive chemicals
- Extended component service life
Significance of SABER/SGS Certification
SABER (Saudi Standards Certification) and SGS (International Inspection Certification) ensure products meet stringent environmental requirements:
- High-temperature testing:No degradation with continuous operation at 80°C
- Waterproof performance:：Complete moisture and dust protection
- Chemical resistance:Oil-resistant, acid-alkali resistant
- Adhesion durability:Long-term sealing effectiveness
Product Technical Specifications
| Indicator | Specification | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 0.13-0.20 mm | Sufficient thickness for protection |
| Adhesion | ≥0.16 kg/cm | Long-term sealing without detachment |
| Tensile Strength | 2 kgs/cm | Withstands mechanical stress |
| Elongation | 200% | Tightly wraps complex shapes |
Application Examples
HVAC Copper Pipe Wrapping:
- Protects air conditioning pipes from corrosion
- Provides additional waterproof layer
- Prevents rust from condensation
Exhaust System Protection:
- Isolates high temperature and chemicals
- Extends exhaust pipe lifespan
- Reduces maintenance costs
Purchasing Recommendations
✅ Key Considerations:- Confirm SABER or SGS certification
- Choose natural rubber adhesive for lasting adhesion
- Check if temperature range meets application environment
- Prioritize products with excellent elongation
Application 5: Interior Fixing & NVH Reduction
Application Scenario
Automotive interior assembly and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) control are crucial for enhancing driving comfort. Applications of low-VOC automotive tape include:
- Interior panel fixing (door panels, dashboard, headliner)
- Sound insulation material bonding
- Shock-absorbing pad fixation
- Anti-friction protection between wire harness and interior
Importance of Low VOC
VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) affects interior air quality and passenger health. Advantages of low-VOC tape:
- Environmental regulation compliance: REACH, RoHS 2.0
- Improved interior air quality
- No pungent odor
- Suitable for enclosed spaces
Product Characteristics
Water-Based Rubber Adhesive:
- Solvent-free formula
- Extremely low VOC content
- Adhesion: ≥0.85 kg/cm
- Environmentally friendly
Flame Retardant Performance:
- Compliant with automotive interior flame retardant standards
- Reduces fire risk
- Passes FMVSS 302 testing
Flexibility & Conformability:
- Thickness: 0.08 mm (ultra-thin design)
- Soft, easily conforms to complex curves
- Doesn't affect interior appearance
Purchasing Recommendations
✅ Interior Application First Choice:- Low-VOC water-based adhesive formula方
- REACH/RoHS certified
- Flame retardant performance
- Soft, easy to operate, residue-free
Automotive PVC Tape Procurement Checklist
Basic Qualification Certifications
| Item | Necessity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ UL Listed | Essential | North American electrical safety standard |
| ✅ VDE Certified | Essential | European electrical safety standard |
| ✅ Tier-2 OEM Verified | Highly Recommended | Automotive-grade quality assurance |
| ✅ RoHS/REACH | Essential | Environmental regulation requirements |
| ✅ SABER (Middle East) | Regional | Required for Middle East export |
Technical Performance Indicators
Electrical Performance:
- ✅ Dielectric strength: ≥1,000 Volts/mil
- ✅ Breakdown voltage: 1,100-4,000V (depending on application)
- ✅ Flame retardant grade: Self-extinguishing, UL 94 V-0 compliant
Mechanical Performance:
- ✅ Tensile strength: 2-3.5 kgs/cm
- ✅ Elongation: ≥150%
- ✅ Adhesion: ≥0.16 kg/cm
Environmental Adaptability:
- ✅ Temperature range: -18°C to 105°C
- ✅ Low-temperature flexibility: No cracking at -10°C
- ✅ Chemical corrosion resistance: Oil-resistant, acid-alkali resistant
Environmental & Safety:
- ✅ Low VOC (interior applications)
- ✅ Solvent-free water-based adhesive (environmental requirements)
- ✅ FMVSS 302 flame retardant compliant
Product Selection Matrix for Different Applications
| Application | Recommended Thickness | Key Certification | Primary Performance Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🔧 Wire Harness | 0.09-0.115 mm | Tier-2 OEM | High tensile strength, hand-tearable |
| ⚡ Electrical Insulation | 0.13-0.15 mm | VDE/UL | High dielectric strength, flame retardant |
| 🏷️ Pipe Marking | 0.13-0.20 mm | SGS | Multiple colors, weather resistant |
| 🛡️ Corrosion Protection | 0.13-0.20 mm | SABER/SGS | Waterproof, chemical resistant |
| 🚗 Interior Fixing | 0.08 mm | REACH/RoHS | Low VOC, soft, flame retardant |
FAQ
A: Hand-tearable design offers three major advantages:
- Enhanced production efficiency:No scissors or cutters needed, accelerating work speed
- Improved safety: Avoids cutting injuries from blade use
- Reduced costs: Minimizes tool wear and maintenance expenses
A：
| Adhesive Type | Advantages | Suitable Scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Rubber | Strong initial tack, excellent elongation, lower cost | Wire harness wrapping, pipe marking, general fixing |
| Acrylic | Superior weather resistance, wide temperature range, strong chemical resistance | Outdoor applications, high-temperature environments, long-term fixing |
Recommendation: Choose natural rubber for wire harness and interior applications; choose acrylic for external exposure and high-temperature zones.
A: Request suppliers to provide:
- ✅ Certification certificate scan (with certification number)
- ✅ Test reports (SGS, TÜV, or other third-party labs)
- ✅ Automotive purchase records (ask if usage cases can be provided)
- ✅ Supplier audit reports (ISO/TS 16949 or IATF 16949)
A: According to different market standards:
- EU REACH: VOC < 50 g/L
- China GB: VOC < 120 g/L
- US EPA: VOC < 100 g/L
Water-based rubber tape typically has VOC < 30 g/L, far below regulatory requirements.
A: Special requirements for electric vehicles:
Higher Insulation Strength:
- Traditional vehicles: 12V-48V systems
- Electric vehicles: 400V-800V high-voltage systems
- Recommend selecting products with breakdown voltage ≥4,000V
Stricter Flame Retardant Standards:
- Higher fire risk from battery packs
- Must comply with UL 94 V-0 flame retardant grade
- Prioritize VDE/UL dual-certified products
Low VOC Requirements:
- Electric vehicles have better sealing
- Higher interior air quality requirements
- Must use water-based, low-VOC tape
Procurement Decision Flowchart
Start Procurement Evaluation
↓
Confirm Application Scenario (Harness/Insulation/Marking/Corrosion/Interior)
↓
├→ Wire Harness → Check Tier-2 Certification + Hand-tearable Design
├→ Electrical Insulation → Check VDE/UL Certification + Dielectric Strength
├→ Pipe Marking → Check Color Options + Weather Resistance
├→ Corrosion Protection → Check SABER/SGS + Waterproofing
└→ Interior Fixing → Check Low VOC + REACH/RoHS
├→ Electrical Insulation → Check VDE/UL Certification + Dielectric Strength
├→ Pipe Marking → Check Color Options + Weather Resistance
├→ Corrosion Protection → Check SABER/SGS + Waterproofing
└→ Interior Fixing → Check Low VOC + REACH/RoHS
↓
Verify Technical Specifications Meet Requirements
↓
Request Certification Documents and Test Reports from Supplier
↓
Request Samples for Actual Testing
↓
Evaluate Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Supply Stability
↓
Complete Procurement Decision
Choose the Right Tape, Enhance Competitiveness
In today's increasingly competitive global automotive industry, selecting the correct automotive PVC tape not only concerns product quality but directly impacts:- ✅ Production Efficiency: Hand-tearable design enhances production line speed
- ✅ Safety Compliance: Meeting international certification standards reduces regulatory risks
- ✅ Cost Control: Reduces rework and after-sales maintenance costs
- ✅ Brand Image: Enhances product reliability and customer satisfaction
- ✅ Environmental Responsibility: Low VOC, RoHS/REACH compliant, practicing sustainable development
Take Action Now
As a professional automotive tape supplier, we offer:- 🔹 Complete Product Line: Covering harness, insulation, marking, corrosion protection, and interior—five major applications
- 🔹 Global Certifications: UL, VDE, Tier-2 OEM, REACH, RoHS, SABER
- 🔹 Technical Support: Free application consultation and on-site testing services
- 🔹 Fast Delivery: Stable supply chain, meeting JIT (Just-In-Time) production needs
Contact Us
📧 Request Free Samples: Test our automotive PVC tape performance immediately
📄 Technical Inquiry Form :https://www.achem.com.tw/contact-form
Let professional automotive tape become the solid foundation of your product quality!
Related Resources
1.png){kind=logo}
