Flat tape - the versatile fastening tape for industrial, commercial and everyday use

Flat tape is one of the most flexible and durable solutions when it comes to securely fixing, tensioning or bundling materials. Whether as flat rubber tape, flat rubber or elastic rubber tape - this flat, stretchable tape has proven itself in numerous industries. It is particularly popular in the packaging industry, trade, mechanical engineering and advertising technology, where it impresses with its elasticity, dimensional stability and high tear resistance. Thanks to its flat shape, it lies gently on surfaces and prevents pressure marks, which is why flat tape is ideal for sensitive materials or cardboard packaging.

Table of contents

• What is flat ribbon?
• Materials and structure
• Typical areas of application
• Advantages of flat ribbon
• Variants and shapes
• Application and practical tips
• Sustainability and reuse
• Comparison: Flat belt vs. round rubber
• FAQ - Frequently asked questions about flat ribbon

What is flat ribbon?

Flat tape is an elastic tape with a rectangular cross-section, usually made from natural rubber, synthetic rubber or textile fibers. In contrast to round rubber cords, flat tape distributes the tensile forces evenly over the surface, which is particularly advantageous when sensitive or smooth surfaces need to be secured. Flat rubber strapping is often used where flexibility, tensile force and a non-slip grip are crucial - for example when securing tarpaulins, covers, boxes or pallets.

The material can be supplied in different widths, thicknesses and stretch values. A classic flat rubber has an elongation capacity of up to 250%, which means it adapts perfectly to irregular shapes. Thanks to the combination of elasticity and stability, flat tape is a durable alternative to disposable films or rigid tapes. Further technical details can be found on Wikipedia - Rubber band.

Materials and structure

Depending on the area of application, flat belt rubber is made from different materials. High-quality variants are made of natural rubber with a textile insert or synthetic rubber, which offers particularly high UV and weather resistance. For outdoor applications, special compounds are often used that remain elastic even in cold conditions. Thanks to its flat structure, the tape can be easily wrapped around edges, boxes or tarpaulins without slipping or causing pressure points.

In an industrial environment, the flat strap is often supplied in rolls and cut to the required length. In combination with hooks, clips or tension fasteners, this creates a versatile fastening system. Thanks to its width, the tape can be precisely adapted to the surface to be secured - ideal for packaging, machine covers, tarpaulins or textile applications.

Typical areas of application

The range of applications for flat strapping is broad. It can be found in almost all industries in which material fixing, tensioning or securing plays a role:

• Logistics & packaging: For bundling and securing cartons, containers and pallets.
• Advertising technology: For attaching banners, tarpaulins or displays.
• Industry & production: As a tensioning strap in machines, devices or assembly lines.
• Craft & construction: For securing covers, cables or tools.
• Textile & household: As flat rubber for clothing, bags or upholstery work.
• Outdoor & transportation: For tarpaulins, trailers and weatherproof covers.

Combining strength, flexibility and ease of use, flat belt rubber offers a durable solution for applications where repeated tensioning, opening and fastening is required.

Advantages of flat ribbon

• Even force distribution: the flat structure prevents pressure points.
• High elasticity: Up to 250 % elongation without permanent deformation.
• Versatility: Suitable for packaging, transportation, tarpaulins and technical applications.
• Reusable: Reusable and therefore more sustainable than disposable films.
• Environmentally friendly: Reduces packaging waste and saves costs through reuse.
• Gentle: Ideal for sensitive surfaces such as painted, textile or polished materials.
• Temperature resistant: Can be used from -20 °C to +60 °C - even in cold rooms and outdoor areas.

Variants and shapes

Depending on the requirements, there are different versions of flat belt and flat rubber:

• Standard flat belt: Universally applicable for packaging, storage and transportation.
• Textile-coated flat belt rubber: With a soft surface, ideal for sensitive goods.
• Reinforced flat belt: With higher tensile force for heavy loads or machine components.
• Wide flat belt: Particularly gentle on the surface - distributes pressure optimally.
• Colored or printed flat tape: For marking loads, departments or production batches.
• Non-slip flat tape: With a special surface for a stable grip on smooth surfaces.

Many users use flat tape rubber as a reusable solution instead of film, adhesive tape or cable ties. Thanks to its long service life and uniform tension, flat tape is also ideal for recurring assembly work or mobile applications in transportation.

Application and practical tips

The handling of a flat rubber or flat strap is uncomplicated: The strap is placed over the unit to be secured and stretched slightly to create an even tension. For larger objects - such as pallets, cardboard boxes or tarpaulins - it is advisable to use several flat straps in order to optimally distribute the load.

For special applications, there are suitable accessories such as hooks, clamps or quick-release fasteners that make fixing easier. Combinations with spiral hooks or metal eyelets are also possible, for example if the flat tape is used in advertising technology or exhibition stand construction. For sensitive materials, you should make sure that the tape surface is clean and free of sharp edges.

Another tip: use different widths and stretch levels for different tasks. A narrow flat belt rubber is well suited for lighter goods, while wide variants are ideal for larger surfaces or heavy objects.

Sustainability and reuse

The use of flat tape makes a significant contribution to reducing packaging waste. Unlike stretch film or adhesive tape, it can be reused many times without losing tension. This not only reduces disposal costs, but also the ecological footprint of the entire logistics process. Companies that rely on sustainable packaging solutions in particular benefit from this long-lasting alternative.

In addition, the material can be recycled at the end of its service life. Natural rubber and synthetic rubber compounds can usually be recycled. This means that flat belt rubber is not only practical, but also environmentally friendly - an aspect that is becoming increasingly important in modern supply chains.

Comparison: Flat belt vs. round rubber

• Flat belt: Uniform tension, gentle contact, ideal for sensitive surfaces.
• Round rubber: point tension, higher tension on a small area, better for compact fuses.

While round rubber bands are mainly used for punctual tension, the flat belt impresses with its even pressure distribution and controlled tension. It is therefore the preferred choice for storage, shipping and sensitive surfaces.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about flat ribbon

Conclusion: Flat tape is a well thought-out and sustainable solution for numerous applications in industry, trade and everyday life. It combines high elasticity with durability, is reusable, gentle on sensitive surfaces and actively contributes to waste prevention - a real all-rounder among rubber bands.