Adhesives, Sealants and Tape

Industrial Bonding, Repairing and Safeguarding Solution

When it comes to the challenges of bonding, repairing and preserving materials in the industrial realm, DistributionNOW is your trusted partner for industrial supplies. With a curated selection of both general-purpose and high-performance adhesives, sealants and tapes, we cover every conceivable need. Whether your task involves sticking, marking, fixing or sealing, our products have been benchmarked against the highest industry standards. 

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Product Information

Overview

The demands for efficient and durable bonding, repairing and protection solutions are ever-increasing in the fast-paced energy and industrial sectors. Whether it's joining materials together with pinpoint accuracy, sealing gaps to prevent leakages or ensuring surfaces remain intact under challenging conditions, you need products that won't disappoint you.

We stock and sell quality general-purpose and high-performance industrial adhesives, sealants and tapes to answer your pressing needs. By investing in our products, you're not just buying a solution but guaranteeing peace of mind.

Product Offerings

  • General-Purpose and Industrial Adhesives: Ideal for a wide range of applications, offering versatility and reliability.
  • High-Performance Industrial Sealants: Ensuring a powerful bond even in the most demanding conditions.
  • Tapes: From masking to electrical insulation, our tapes are made to perform.
  • Caulk: A solution for filling gaps and ensuring airtight seals.
  • Cement: Industrial-grade for binding materials firmly.
  • Glue: Fast-acting and long-lasting.
  • Putty: Perfect for temporary or long-term sealing and bonding.
  • Sealant Tools and Accessories: Everything you need to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Features and Benefits

  • Versatility: Designed to bond various substrates, from metals to plastics and even composite materials.
  • High Performance: Engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, pressures and environmental conditions.
  • Rapid Cure: Fast-setting formulations available for quick assembly and reduced downtime.
  • Durability: Resistant to chemicals, corrosion and UV exposure, ensuring long-term performance.
  • Gap Filling: The ability to bridge and fill gaps ensures complete and secure bonds.
  • Thermal Conductivity: Certain formulations provide efficient heat transfer, suitable for thermal management applications.
  • Ease of Application: Available in various formats, such as liquids, gels, tapes or pastes, to suit different application needs.

A Selection of Supplier and Manufacturer Partnerships

Dow Chemical
Henkel (Loctite®)
Intertape Polymer Group (IPG)

Downloads

DNOW Loctite Sealants & Lubricants Flyerfile download
DNOW Intertape Polymer Group Tape Flyerfile download

FAQs

An adhesive is a material that is used to bond two surfaces together. A sealant is a material used to seal a joint or opening between two surfaces. The main difference between adhesives and sealants is that adhesives bond two surfaces together, while sealants seal a joint or gap between two surfaces.

Adhesives are materials that can be used to bond two or more surfaces or objects together. The bond created by an adhesive can be either temporary or permanent, and the bond's strength depends on the adhesive's properties. The most common types of adhesives are:

  • Anaerobic adhesives are available in liquid and paste solutions that work without air. They work best in securing, sealing and retaining close-fitting and structural parts. They are available in different thicknesses.
  • Contact adhesives are like rubber cement. They are used to glue two things together. Once the contact adhesive's solvent evaporates, the items are brought into direct contact with each other.
  • Cyanoacrylate adhesives are glues that cure when they are exposed to moisture or UV light. This type of adhesive comes in different thicknesses and can be used on different surfaces. It is not good for structural applications because it is not very strong.
  • Epoxy adhesives have high shear and peel strength and can be used even in very hot or cold temperatures. They are good for bonding different types of materials together and can be used even if there is a gap between them.
  • Hot melt adhesives are a kind of adhesive that comes from thermoplastic compounds. It is very sticky and can be used on different surfaces. Hot glue usually hardens when it cools down, but some kinds need moisture or UV light to work.
  • Polyimides adhesives are one-part synthetic polymers that usually contain solvents. They are tough, resistant to heat and chemicals, and can perform well in extremely high temperatures. They come in two formulations, thermoset and thermoplastic and are often used for coating or electronic insulation.
  • Polyurethane adhesives are good for construction because they are strong and have permanent elasticity. They come in two parts and you need moisture to make them work. They can be painted and can be used in any weather.
  • Pressure-sensitive adhesives can be used on wet surfaces without much pressure. They are good for light load applications and are usually bought as tapes or labels for non-structural purposes.
  • White glue is a type of adhesive that is commonly used for arts and crafts projects. It is made of polyvinyl acetate (PVA) and requires contact and pressure during solidification. It can be used on cloth, cardboard, paper, wood and other surfaces with pores.

Many different types of tapes are available on the market, each with specific uses. Some common types of adhesive tapes include:

  • Anti-seize tapes are applied to things like bolts and fasteners to keep them from rusting, seizing or corroding.
  • Box-sealing tape is a type of pressure-sensitive tape that is used to seal corrugated fiberboard boxes.
  • Corrosion protection tape is a type of tape that helps protect metals from corrosion, impact, abrasion and puncture. This makes it good to use on metal pipes, conduits and fittings that are above and below ground.
  • Double coated tapes have an adhesive made of rubber or synthetic rubber. They can be used on surfaces like paper, fabric and film to mount substrates or join two surfaces together. Many industries use double-coated tapes, like the medical, appliance, automotive and electronic industries. Examples of double-coated tape are foam tapes, cotton (cloth) tapes and paper tapes.
  • Duct tape is a type of tape that is pressure-sensitive and has a cloth or scrim backing. It is often coated with polyethylene. There are different types of duct tape that are used for different purposes.
  • Electrical tapes are pressure-sensitive tape wrapped around electrical wires to insulate them; it is usually color-coded depending on its voltage rating. Electrical tapes do not conduct electricity but protect the wire or conductor from the elements and shield the wire's surroundings from electricity. They are made of many plastics, but vinyl is most common since it has a good stretch and is long-lasting.
  • Filament tapes are pressure-sensitive tapes made up of polypropylene or polyester film with fiberglass filaments embedded in them to add high tensile strength making this tape exceptionally strong. Filament tapes can be applied manually, but they are generally applied as part of a conveyor system with a stationary dispenser. This type of tape is used in the packaging industry to close corrugated fiberboard boxes, reinforce packages, bundle items, and unitize pallets.
  • Gaffer tape is a heavy cotton cloth pressure-sensitive tape that is strong and sticky. It is widely used in theatre, photography, film, radio, television, and industrial staging work.
  • Heat-activated tapes are made of a heat-activated thermoplastic film formulated from polyurethane, nylon, polyester, or vinyl and adhere to most substances. When heat and pressure are applied to the tape, the adhesive is activated and creates a strong bond. Heat-activated tapes are often used for laminating, molding, and welding.
  • Masking tape is a type of pressure-sensitive tape that is made of thin paper and has an easily released pressure-sensitive adhesive. It is available in different widths and is mainly used in painting to mask off areas that should not be painted.
  • Mounting tape is a strong, double-sided foam-based tape that can be used to hang items and is available in different strengths and types.
  • Painters tape comes in different strengths and can stick to other surfaces. The adhesive materials can be made of different things like acrylics, hot melts, and natural rubber. Some common types of tape are polypropylene, PVC, polyesters, reinforced and non-reinforced adhesive tape, and cloth materials. Printed tape is commonly used for branding and marketing, standalone indicators with pre-printed messages and to assist with loss prevention by drawing attention to security and shipping instructions.
  • Pipe wrap tape is a durable tape used to protect pipes from being damaged by things like corrosion, abrasion and impact. It's especially good for use in places like petroleum refineries, chemical handling and mining.
  • Splicing tape is a type of tape that is very conformable and provides electrical and mechanical protection. It is made with an aggressive rubber resin adhesive and a self-fusing, ethylene-propylene backing. This tape is designed for low- and high-voltage, bus bar insulation, end-sealing of cables and jacket repair applications.
  • Stencil tape can be used to hold a card in place while using stencils, or to keep dies in place while feeding them through a die-cutting machine. It can also be applied to plastic, metal, wood, and ceramic surfaces. This makes it ideal for masking applications during painting where it's important to have a clean removal.
  • Water-activated tape is a type of tape commonly made from starch or, in some cases, from animal glue. The tape is easy to work with because it is not sticky until it is wetted or remoistened with water, which creates a seal that shows if there was attempted removal. This makes it suitable for shipping and storing things. Water-activated tape is mainly used with corrugated fiberboard boxes.

If you are considering getting sealants, knowing the different types available and which one is right for you is essential. The three main types of sealants are

  • Water-based latex sealants are popular for residential use because it is easy to apply and can adhere to most substrates. These can be painted on and are suitable for situations where gaps and voids are tiny, and movement is minimal. Latex can be prone to shrinkage and pull away from the substrate, creating openings that allow water to penetrate.
  • Acrylic sealants are suitable for exterior projects and will not get ruined by the UV rays. They can be hard to put on and do not work well without much movement.
  • Butyl sealants are good for many things but can be difficult to apply. They don't stand up well to abrasion and can't take shearing forces. They are not good for demanding building applications./li>
  • Polysulfide sealants can be used in many ways, including underwater because they are very flexible and do not shrink or change color in the sun. They are more expensive than other sealants but last a long time.
  • Silicone sealants provide water-resistant seals that maintain a stronghold against harsh weather conditions. They are commonly used to seal windows to frames and automobiles and appliances for sealing cables and sensors in electronic devices.

The main difference between caulk and sealant is elasticity.

Caulk is more rigid than sealants, while sealants are better able to withstand expansion and contraction. Caulk is a waterproof material used to fill and seal joints between building materials. It is usually made from latex, silicone, rubber, or a combination of these materials. Some types of caulk include:

  • Silicone caulk is a good caulking material because it is flexible and does not absorb water. It is more expensive than latex but lasts longer and can withstand extreme temperature changes. To clean up silicone caulk, you need solvents instead of water.
  • Latex caulk is best for use with drywall, wood and masonry. It is inexpensive, easy to use, seals well without odors and cleans up easily with water. On average, it can last from 10 to 15 years, but this can be affected by exposure to moisture and sudden temperature changes.
  • Expandable foam caulk is a polyurethane spray foam sealant extruded in a narrow band through a straw. The foam then expands to fill more significant gaps and holes. It has excellent sealing and insulation properties and can be used to help dampen sound. This sealant is sometimes used to repair minor cracks in the foundations of older homes temporarily. Pest-resistant foam sealants are suitable for exterior gaps and holes to deter rodents. Often used in soundproofing builds boost efficacy of noise-dampening panels.
  • Butyl-rubber caulk is a type of caulk that is only for outdoor use. It works well for roofing construction and repairs because it can withstand extreme temperatures and creates a strong seal that is also waterproof. You can use aluminum, metal, concrete, mortar, plastics, rubber, stone, vinyl, and exterior wood. It is also suitable for gutters, siding, and concrete.

Cement and concrete are not the same. Cement is a powder that helps things stick together. Concrete is a mix of cement, sand and gravel.

When selecting the proper material to complete your construction project you'll these are the common types available:

  • Concrete mix types
    • Fast-setting concrete sets in 20-40 minutes and is good for supporting a fence, mailbox post or creating small concrete slabs.
    • High-strength concrete is durable and is good for foundations, footers, and heavy equipment bases.
    • All-purpose cement is versatile and can be used for repairing foundation walls, laying sidewalks, creating steps, and setting posts.
  • Cement types
    • Portland cement is a material that is used to create concrete. It is similar to glue and is often used to lay driveways and pathways.
    • Masonry cement mix is a commercial-grade mixture that is used to build brick or stone structures. It features gravel and sand mixed with water to create a strong bond.
    • Mortar cement mix is a common cement mix that is used to lay brick and stone. This blend of masonry cement, sand and water form a strong bond, but it is not a suitable choice for providing structural support.

Whether you're repairing a cracked sidewalk, extending an outdoor patio or simply setting new fence posts, make sure to read and follow the directions on your product so you'll know how to mix it and how long to let it dry and cure.

Putty is a material used in the construction industry to repair surface damage and prevent leaks by filling cracks, holes and crevices. It is usually made by mixing ground chalk with linseed oil and kneading it until it is the consistency of dough. Putty is available in different colors and can be painted when it is dry. The most common types of putty are:

  • Adhesive putty is a good way to hold lightweight items on hard surfaces. It is also good for other things like stopping rattling windows and securing candlesticks.
  • Epoxy putty is a type of adhesive that hardens at room temperature and is very strong. It can be used to fill gaps, repair wood surfaces, and fix leaking pipes.
  • Fast Curing Putty is a type of putty that is designed to fix small unevenness on surfaces like metal and plastic, ready for further processing immediately.
  • Plastic Steel Putty is a steel-filled epoxy for maintenance, repairs, tooling and production applications. It is ideal for repairing pipes, valves, tooling and holding fixtures.