Telephone (505) 424-1209

Telephone (505) 424 – 1209

Paper vs Plastic Carrier Tape and Shim Clip Usage

Carrier Tape Materials

Lightweight
Cost-efficient
Common for low-mass passives
Higher susceptibility to deformation under tension

Plastic Carrier Tape

Greater rigidity
Improved dimensional stability
Preferred for high-speed and automated lines
Better tolerance for reinforced splice zones

Shim Clip Splice Tape Systems

Definition

Shim clip splice tapes incorporate a mechanical thickness compensator that equalizes the splice zone height with the original carrier tape.

When Shim Clips Are Necessary

Older feeders with limited height tolerance
High-speed machines sensitive to tape thickness variation
Plastic carrier tapes combined with reinforced splices

Operational Advantages

Reduced feeder jam events
Improved tape tracking
Consistent sprocket wheel engagement
Lower splice-related downtime

Shim Clips vs Reinforced Tape

Reinforced tape strengthens the splice. Shim clips normalize tape geometry. In demanding environments, both are used together.