Tape Dispensers

How you’ll use a tape dispenser will depend on whether you’ve got a manual tape gun or an automatic packing tape dispenser. For how to use a manual tape gun, read our next FAQ below.

Here’s how to use gummed paper tape with an automatic dispenser:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Automatic packing tape dispenser
• Roll of packing tape
• Power source (if the dispenser is electric)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tape Roll:

• Ensure that your automatic tape dispenser is equipped with a roll of packing tape. Some dispensers have a core or spindle where you insert the tape roll.
• Thread the Tape: Locate the tape path or guide on your automatic dispenser. This is typically a channel or mechanism through which the tape travels.
• Thread the loose end of the tape through the tape path, making sure that the adhesive side of the tape faces downward (toward the surface you’ll be sealing).

Power On the Dispenser (If Electric):

• If your automatic dispenser is electric, power it on using the designated switch or button. Ensure that it is properly connected to a power source or has a charged battery, depending on the model.

Set Tape Length (If Adjustable):

• Some automatic dispensers allow you to set the desired tape length. Adjust it according to your needs, which may vary depending on the size of the packages you’re sealing.

Position the Dispenser:

• Place the automatic dispenser with the tape against the seam or opening of the box or package you want to seal. Ensure that the tape adheres to the surface.

Activate the Dispenser:

• Depending on the model, activate the dispenser using the designated button, trigger, or sensor. Some dispensers require a button press, while others automatically dispense and cut the tape when it detects that you’ve pulled it from the machine.

Seal the Box:

• Pull the dispenser along the seam while applying gentle pressure. The tape will automatically unroll from the dispenser, seal the box, and cut to the pre-set length (if adjustable).

Release the Tape:

• Release the tension on the tape by lifting the dispenser away from the box. The automatic dispenser should stop dispensing and cut the tape automatically.

Repeat as Needed:

• Repeat the process for each box or package you need to seal. The automatic dispenser will streamline the process, making it faster and more consistent.

Using packing tape with a tape gun is a straightforward process that can significantly simplify the task of sealing boxes and packages. Here are the general steps to use packing tape with a dispenser:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Tape gun
• Roll of packing tape

Instructions:

Prepare The Tape Gun For First Use:

• Load the Tape Roll: Ensure that your packing tape dispenser is equipped with a roll of packing tape. Most dispensers have a spindle or core where you insert the tape roll. Slide the tape roll onto the spindle, making sure it turns freely.
• Thread the Tape: Locate the tape path or guide on your dispenser. This is typically a metal or plastic channel through which the tape passes. Thread the loose end of the tape through the tape path, ensuring that the adhesive side of the tape faces downward (toward the surface you’ll be sealing).
• Prep the Tape for First Use: Pull out a few inches of tape and fold it back onto itself. This creates a tab or “starter” that makes it easier to begin dispensing the tape.
• Adjust the Tape Tension: Many packing tape dispensers have an adjustable tension control, which allows you to set the amount of resistance on the tape. Adjust it according to your preference for ease of use and tape tension.

Sealing a Box:

• Position the dispenser with the tape against the seam or opening of the box you want to seal.
• Press the tape against the box to adhere it to the surface.
• Pull the dispenser along the seam while applying gentle pressure. The tape will unroll from the dispenser, sealing the box as you go.
• If the tape extends beyond the box seam, use the dispenser’s built-in cutter or a separate cutting tool (like a box cutter) to trim the tape neatly.

Release the Tape:

• When you’ve sealed the box to your satisfaction, release the tension on the tape by lifting the dispenser away from the box. Most dispensers have a built-in brake or release mechanism that stops the tape from flowing.

Cut the Tape:

• Use the built-in cutter on the dispenser to cut the tape. Alternatively, you can use a separate cutting tool if your dispenser doesn’t have one.

Repeat as Needed:

• Repeat the process for each box or package you need to seal.

Using a packing tape dispenser can make the task of sealing boxes faster, more efficient, and more precise. It also helps ensure that the tape is applied evenly and securely, which is particularly useful for shipping and moving purposes. Remember to exercise caution when using the cutting feature and keep your fingers clear of the tape path to avoid injury.

A gummed paper tape dispenser, also known as a water-activated tape dispenser or a gum tape machine, is a device designed to efficiently and accurately apply water-activated tape to seal cartons and packages. Here’s how it typically works:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Gummed paper tape roll
• Water source

Instructions:

Load the Tape Roll:

• Start by loading a roll of gummed paper tape onto the dispenser. Most dispensers have a spindle or core where the tape roll fits. Make sure the tape roll is secure and turns freely.

Thread the Tape:

• Locate the tape path or guide on the dispenser, which is typically a channel or mechanism through which the tape travels.
• Thread the loose end of the gummed paper tape through the tape path, ensuring that the adhesive side of the tape faces downward (toward the surface you’ll be sealing).

Prepare the Water Reservoir:

• Most gummed paper tape dispensers have a built-in water reservoir. Fill this reservoir with clean, fresh water. Some models may have a sponge or brush inside the reservoir.

Adjust the Tape Length (Optional):

• Depending on the dispenser model, you may have the option to set the desired tape length. This can help control the amount of tape dispensed for each seal.

Position the Dispenser:

• Place the gummed paper tape dispenser with the tape against the seam or opening of the carton or package you want to seal. Ensure that the tape adheres to the surface.

Activate the Dispenser:

• Activating the dispenser can be achieved in one of two ways, depending on the model:
  • Moisten the Tape Manually: In some basic gummed paper tape dispensers, you need to moisten the tape manually with a wet sponge or brush before applying it to the package. After moistening, apply the tape to the seam, and it will adhere securely.
  • Automatic Moistening: More advanced gummed paper tape dispensers have an automatic tape moistening mechanism. In these machines, the tape is moistened as it passes through the dispenser. Simply pull the tape along the seam, and it will activate the adhesive and adhere to the surface.

Seal the Carton:

• With the gummed paper tape activated and adhered to the package, press the tape down securely along the seam.

Cut the Tape:

• Most gummed paper tape dispensers have a built-in tape cutter. Use this cutter or a separate cutting tool to trim the tape neatly once you’ve sealed the carton.

Release the Tape:

• Release the tape by lifting the dispenser away from the package. Some advanced dispensers may have a release mechanism to stop the tape from dispensing once you release it.

Repeat as Needed:

• Continue this process to seal additional cartons or packages. The dispenser ensures efficient and consistent sealing.

Gummed paper tape dispensers are commonly used in industries where secure, tamper-evident sealing is crucial, such as shipping, packaging, and logistics. They offer reliable sealing, effective tape activation through water application, and the option to customise the length of tape dispensed for different-sized packages.