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If you’re exploring flexible materials, you may have come across the term “converter,” or “adhesive converter.” Now, you might not know what this term actually means, and the truth is, there are a lot of different types of converters out there, with a lot of different capabilities. So, how do you pick the right one for your business?
Not every converter has the adhesive expertise or design skills for complex products, and partnering with an underqualified converter can quickly become a drain on both profit and time.
Conversely, there are some converters that are more uniquely set-up to handle certain materials, processes, or industry-specific applications.
To ensure your product's success, focus on finding a converter that has the technical capabilities to match your specific application. Here are some potential decision-making criteria to use when evaluating 3M tape converters.
What We Mean By “3M Converter”
For custom projects, 3M often refers customers to their converting partners, known as “3M Preferred Converters.” These converters have access to the latest and most advanced adhesives, as well as regular contact with 3M’s laboratory and design engineers.
Occasionally, 3M converters are asked to test new technology in pressure-sensitive adhesives, transfer tapes, and other products, such as VHB tape. Moreover, being a trusted partner raises that converter’s status in the 3M queue, which helps expedite customer deliveries.
Selection Criteria For Your Ideal 3M Tape Converter
While it's tempting to only compare prices, a low quote may mean untested processes and greater risk. Consider these key criteria to select the right converter:
- Converting capabilities
- Sampling and prototyping options
- ISO certifications and FDA registration status
- Industry connections
- …and yes, budget-friendliness based on customized pricing
Now that you have an overview of what to look for, let’s explore the metrics you can use to differentiate among 3M converters in greater detail.
1. CONVERTING CAPABILITIES
Converting capabilities combine skill sets and business strategy. They are crucial when partnering with a flexible material converter and may include:
- Die cutting
- Slitting
- Flexo and Digital Printing
- Automated Assembly
- Laminating Multiple Materials
—and more!
Regardless of industry, a converter’s manufacturing capabilities must deliver materials in exact sizes, shapes, and formats. Tight-tolerance die cutting is especially critical and affects project complexity and cost.
You can also observe the diversity of a converter’s skills and projects. For instance, do they have a wide range of capabilities or focus on a particular area? This factor may affect how you scale your product or consolidate processes.
2. PROTOTYPING OPTIONS
Design prototyping helps identify and address design flaws early, validate ideas, identify material alternatives, and lower costs. Working with a converter skilled in prototyping is essential for minimizing risk and saving time.
At Strouse, we provide sample rolls, precision laser, and digital knife cutting for functional material testing. Prototyping goes beyond uploading an AutoCAD drawing and hoping for the best. Often, customer drawings have over-engineered tolerances; a reputable converter works with customer engineers to identify where tolerance is critical and where flexibility can reduce expenses later.
3. ISO CERTIFICATIONS AND FDA REGISTRATION
Each product has unique manufacturing requirements, such as ISO certifications or FDA approval. Strouse is FDA-registered and certified to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016 quality management systems, meaning:
- ISO 9001:2015 — The manufacture of pressure-sensitive adhesive products that provide solutions for custom applications.
- ISO 13485:2016 — The contract manufacture of non-sterile pressure-sensitive adhesive products for the medical device industry.
Choose a converter whose certifications align with your product's quality standards. Aligning these standards is necessary for product compliance and success.
4. INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
A converter needs close ties with leading manufacturers to fully understand PSA (Pressure Sensitive Adhesive) tape. This lets them suggest lower-cost or easier-to-manufacture materials.
Is your converter partnered with multiple reputable material suppliers? Will they suggest material alternatives based on your needs? Having multiple high-quality options will help you build a competitive and agile manufacturing process.
5. BUDGET-FRIENDLINESS
The right adhesive converter will invest time in matching your needs and budget. It’s not enough to be able to convert tape to custom lengths/widths, sizes/shapes, and formats; realistically, a successful product must have positive business outcomes, which means considering costs.
Remember, just like any other industry, the cheapest option typically comes with the cheapest option drawbacks. This typically means lower quality and more defects. If you seek only the cheapest converter, it can lead to wasted resources and increased costs over time. In this industry, it is particularly important to weigh price against experience and quality to avoid these pitfalls.
A skillful converter suggests trial runs before pursuing complex processes to protect your bottom line and maximize revenue. Relying on untested, inexpensive manufacturing risks quality errors and extra expenses.
Strouse’s Role as a 3M Adhesive Tape Converter
Now that you have read through our selection criteria, it’s time for us to toss our hat into the ring. For over thirty years, Strouse has partnered with 3M and other reputable suppliers to help other companies build custom products.
Request a quote to discover how Strouse builds effective custom solutions. Our team will guide you through the design, prototyping, and advanced manufacturing processes tailored to your specific needs.
Download our VHB Tape guide to see real examples of Strouse products built with 3M materials. From medical to automotive applications, see the range of our experience with 3M and Solventum brands.
Originally published: January 6th, 2021
