Which masking tapes are best for industrial spraying?

Die-cut masking tape is highly effective at maintaining a clean no-spray zone and also maximizes production productivity. Clean lines, precise dimensions, easily duplicated results — these are just some of the benefits of cutting masking tape into the exact shape and dimensions of the areas that shouldn’t get an application of paint, powder coating or plasma spray.

Compare masking tape to other shielding methods in painting and spray application and it’s the most precise and cost-effective solution for preventing overspray in industrial applications. It’s less labor intensive than liquid masking or manual removal of the spray medium. Tape also defeats edge lift, a common occurrence in reusable stencils.

With its low-tack adhesive, the tape adheres securely throughout the spray application, but lifts away cleanly with little to no adhesive residue.

A guide to 3M^™ masking tapes

For expert guidance on the best masking tape for your spraying operation, turn to Evans Evco. We’ll consider factors like the spraying medium, operating temperatures and surface type. Then we’ll recommend the optimal protective product that keeps your no-spray zone pristine.

Then take advantage of our die-cutting services to boost your production efficiency. By die-cutting your masking tape into the shape of your no-spray zone, you save time, you’ll instantly see improvements in accuracy and cut the need for rework. Not only will you see better throughput, you’ll also boost the overall quality of the spray job.

As you evaluate your options, use this guide to our most popular 3M masking tapes. Then get in touch with our experts to start the process.

Paper masking tapes

3M^™ Performance Masking Tape 2380

• Versatile: Suitable for air dry to oven bake conditions, up to 325°F (163°C).
• Clean removal: High resistance to tearing or slivering during removal.
• Consistent performance: Ensures clean paint lines across various applications.

3M^™ Performance Yellow Masking Tape 301+

• Good paint lines: Resists edge bleed for clean results.
• Ease of use: Conformable crepe paper backing enables quick application.
• Highly visible: Bright yellow color enhances masking accuracy.

3M^™ High Performance Green Masking Tape 401+

• Sharp paint lines: Excellent resistance to edge bleed.
• Clean removal: Designed to leave no residue.
• Flexible: Conforms easily to curves and contours.
• Highly visible: Green color aids in precise masking.

Fine line masking tapes

Scotch® Fine Line Tape 218

• Precise lines: Thin profile ensures sharp, clean paint lines.
• Ease of application: Film backing stretches smoothly over curves and can be torn by hand.
• Durability: Resistant to moisture and solvents; withstands bake cycles up to 250°F (121°C).
• Indoor use: Not suitable for prolonged outdoor exposure.

Scotch® High Temperature Fine Line Tape 4737TL

• Uniform stretching: Ensures consistent, precise paint lines.
• Customizable: Available with lay-flat release liner for die cuts and plotter cuts.
• High-temperature resistance: Performs well in paint bake cycles.
• Indoor use: Specifically designed for indoor applications.

Scotch^™ Ultimate Paint Edge Masking Tape 2460

• Sharp lines: Thin yet strong paper backing provides minimal paint ridge.
• Temperature resistant: Withstands up to 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes.
• Outdoor use: UV-resistant adhesive allows up to 21 days of outdoor use.
• Delicate surfaces: Low peel force makes it suitable for delicate applications.

Duct Tape Masking Tapes

3M^™ Performance Plus Duct Tape 8979

• Clean removal: Ideal for temporary masking; can be removed cleanly up to six months.
• Weather resistant: UV and environmental resistance for long-term outdoor masking.
• Easy application: Moderate unwinding force; can be torn by hand.
• Strong adhesion: Rubber adhesive ensures a secure bond.

Specialty application masking tapes

3M^™ Polyester Tape 8991

• Versatile: Ideal for powder coat masking, flash breaking and bag sealing.
• Durable: Polyester film backing resists thermal, abrasion and chemical damage.
• Sharp paint lines: Thin backing provides precision in masking.
• High heat resistance: Silicone adhesive withstands high temperatures and adheres to tough surfaces.

3M^™ Aluminum Foil Tape 425

• Reflective and protective: Seals against moisture, solvents and dust.
• Heat reflectivity: Protects against heat, flame and hot spots.
• Weather resistant: Withstands outdoor conditions and UV exposure.

Masking films

3M^™ High Temperature Masking Films

• Easy to apply: Flexible film drapes well over curves; easy for one person to handle.
• Resists bleed-through: Seals effectively against solvents and paint.
• High temperature resistance: Withstands up to 360°F (180°C) for 60 minutes.
• Efficient: Reduces post-paint processing and surface cleaning time.

3M^™ High Temperature Protective Bags and Sheets 7260M

• Conformable: Translucent sheets and bags offer flexibility and easy handling.
• High heat resistance: Resists temperatures up to 315°F (157°C).
• Versatile: Available in bags, perforated sheets, or non-perforated sheeting.

3M^™ High Temperature Paint Masking Film 7300

• Soft and flexible: Excellent drape and conformability for high-gloss surfaces.
• Contamination-free: Eliminates flying fiber contamination.
• Temperature resistant: Withstands up to 310°F (154°C) for one hour.

3M^™ High Temperature Paint Masking Film 7302

• Prevents bleed-through: Effectively stops paint and solvent bleed-through.
• Versatile formats: Available as rolls, pre-cut sheets, or covers.
• Heat resistant: Performs reliably up to 320°F (160°C).

3M^™ Ultra High Temperature Paint Masking Film 7305

• Strong sealing: Maintains a seal throughout high-heat cure cycles.
• Efficient curing: Promotes effective drying and curing.
• Temperature resistant: Withstands up to 360°F (180°C) for 45 minutes.

Innovate with Evans Evco solutions

Ready to take your spray operation to the next level with 3M masking tape tailored for your needs? Use our MSI calculator as a planning tool and talk to the helpful team at Evans Evco.