VELCRO® Brand Adhesive Showdown: PS14 vs PS18 - Which to Choose?

When it comes to fastening solutions, VELCRO® Brand products are often the go-to choice. However, not all types of Hook and Loop are created equal, especially when it comes to adhesive options. Two popular self-adhesive products, PS14 and PS18, have gained attention for their peel and stick convenience. Understanding the differences between these velcro adhesive types can help you make the right choice for your specific needs.

In this article, you'll learn about the unique characteristics of PS14 and PS18 adhesives. We'll compare their application methods, examine how they perform in various environments, and look at their pricing and availability. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which VELCRO® Brand pressure sensitive adhesive might be the best fit for your project, whether you need a resin-based adhesive for general use or a stronger acrylic adhesive for more demanding applications.

Application Methods

PS14 Application

To apply VELCRO® Brand PS14 adhesive tape, you need to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust or dirt. For optimal results, clean the surface with rubbing alcohol or a mild cleaning solution. Measure and cut the hook and loop sides to the same length using sharp scissors. Carefully remove the backing from the adhesive side of each strip, avoiding contact with your fingers to maintain stickiness.

Press the hook side firmly onto one surface, ensuring proper orientation. Align the loop side on the other surface and press down firmly along its length. Allow 24 hours for the adhesive to set before use, ensuring a strong and stable bond. PS14 adhesive is suitable for most surfaces, including metal, glass, wood, rigid plastic, and card. However, it's not recommended for PVC or vinyl. This rubber-based, pressure-sensitive adhesive is ideal for indoor use at room temperature and has a working temperature range of -15°C to +90°C.

PS18 Application

The application method for VELCRO® Brand PS18 adhesive is similar to PS14. Clean and prepare the surface as described above. PS18 is a water-based acrylic polymer adhesive with a wider working temperature range of (-20°C to +120°C).

PS18 is suitable for general applications except for polyolefins. It's important to note that extreme heat and humidity can affect the adhesive properties of both PS14 and PS18. Avoid applying these tapes in areas exposed to high temperatures or moisture, as this may reduce their effectiveness over time.

Application Comparison

Both PS14 and PS18 adhesives are applied using pressure. However, there are some key differences:

1. Surface compatibility: PS14 is suitable for most surfaces except PVC, while PS18 is compatible with most surfaces except polyolefins.
2. Base material: PS14 has a rubber resin base, whereas PS18 uses a water-based acrylic polymer.
3. Fire retardancy: Neither have any fire-retardant properties, you would need PS15 flame retardant.

For both adhesives, proper surface preparation is crucial. Poor surface preparation is a common cause of adhesion failure. Ensure thorough cleaning and drying of the surface before application. Dust, grime, or oil residue can prevent proper bonding.

After application, both adhesives require a 24-hour curing period to reach optimal working strength. This allows the adhesive resin to complete its curing process fully.

Remember that these adhesives may not be suitable for fabrics, dashboards, flexible vinyl, or underwater use. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also damage the fastener.

Performance in Different Environments

PS14 Environmental Performance

VELCRO® Brand PS14 adhesive is a rubber-based, pressure-sensitive adhesive designed for indoor use at room temperature. It has a temperature operating range of -15°C to +90°C, making it suitable for various environments. PS14 performs well on most surfaces, including metal, glass, wood, rigid plastic, and card. It's particularly effective on low-energy substrates such as anodised aluminium, painted wallboard, plywood, polyester, stainless steel, and Formica (polished side only).

You can use PS14 with some reservations on polyethylene, polypropylene, cardboard, and certain fabrics. However, bond strength may be limited in these cases and might not perform well over time. It's important to note that PS14 is not recommended for use on PVC or vinyl surfaces.

PS18 Environmental Performance

PS18 adhesive is a water-based acrylic polymer with high tack and good shear strength. It has a wider temperature operating range compared to PS14, functioning between -20°C and +120°C.

This makes PS18 more versatile in challenging environments. It adheres well to most metal and medium/high surface energy plastics, making it suitable for use in automotive, computer, and medical industries.

PS18 has high temperature resistance, making it an excellent choice for use under hot display lighting. It's particularly well-suited for the exhibition industry, as it adheres effectively to Foamex. Unlike PS14, PS18 can be used on PVC and vinyl surfaces. However, it's not suitable for use on polyethylene or polypropylene.

Environmental Performance Comparison

When comparing PS14 and PS18, several factors come into play:

1. Temperature range: PS18 has a broader temperature range (-20°C to +120°C) compared to PS14 (-15°C to +90°C), making it more suitable for extreme temperature conditions.
2. Surface compatibility: PS14 works well on most surfaces except PVC and vinyl, while PS18 is compatible with PVC and vinyl but not with polyethylene or polypropylene.
3. Environmental resistance: PS18 offers better environmental resistance, making it more suitable for outdoor applications or environments with varying conditions.
4. Industry applications: PS18 is often preferred in industries requiring higher performance, such as automotive and medical sectors, due to its superior adhesive properties.
5. Display environments: PS18's high temperature resistance makes it ideal for use under hot display lighting, giving it an edge in exhibition and retail settings.

Both adhesives perform best when applied in clean, well-ventilated areas with ideal room temperatures of 18°C to 20°C and relative humidity of 40% to 60%. Proper surface preparation is crucial for optimal performance in any environment.

Pricing and Availability Comparison

When comparing PS14 and PS18, you'll find that PS18 is generally more expensive due to its specialised acrylic adhesive. However, both types offer quantity discounts, making them more affordable for large-scale projects. PS14 is available in a wider range of widths (10mm to 150mm), while PS18 has been noted in widths up to 50mm.

Both adhesives are readily available from VELCRO® Brand suppliers and come in standard 25-metre rolls. The choice between PS14 and PS18 often depends on the specific application and surface material rather than price alone. For general use, PS14 might be more cost-effective, while PS18 could be worth the extra cost for specialised applications requiring its unique properties.

Conclusion

Choosing between VELCRO® Brand PS14 and PS18 adhesives has a significant impact on the success of your fastening project. The decision hinges on factors like surface type, environmental conditions, and specific application requirements. PS14, with its rubber-based adhesive, is a versatile choice for general indoor use, while PS18's acrylic polymer composition makes it more suitable for demanding environments and specialised industries.

To sum up, both adhesives offer unique strengths and are designed to meet different needs. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision that ensures a strong, reliable bond for your project. Whether you opt for the cost-effective PS14 or the high-performance PS18, proper application and surface preparation are key to achieving the best results with these VELCRO® Brand products.