Mica Tape
Mica Tape
Mica tape is a high temperature insulation tape made from mica paper on a reinforcing backing. It provides strong electrical insulation together with fire and flame resistance.
The mica construction holds up under heat where standard tapes would fail, which makes it suitable for fire survival cables and high temperature windings. The backing adds handling strength during application.
Mica tape is used in motor, generator, and transformer winding insulation, and in fire resistant cable manufacturing. It suits power, rail, and industrial electrical applications.
- Mica paper insulation tape on a reinforcing backing
- Provides strong electrical insulation under heat
- Offers fire and flame resistance
- Withstands demanding high temperature conditions
- Adds handling strength during application
- Ideal for fire resistant and high temperature cables
- Used in motor, generator, and transformer windings
- Suited to power, rail, and industrial electrical use
Description
What is Mica Tape
Mica tape is a fire-resistant insulation tape made from phlogopite or muscovite mica paper reinforced with glass cloth backing and bonded with high-temperature silicone resin. It withstands temperatures up to 500°C and is used as a fire barrier insulation in transformers, high-voltage cables, and electric motors. Mica tape is non-flammable and does not produce toxic gases when exposed to fire.
Adhesive Specialities manufactures mica tape for critical fire barrier and high-temperature insulation applications. Our mica tapes are designed for transformer manufacturers, cable makers, and motor builders who need the highest level of fire-resistant insulation.
Key Properties
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mica Type | Phlogopite mica paper |
| Reinforcement | Glass cloth backing |
| Binder | Silicone resin |
| Temperature Rating | Up to 500°C continuous |
| Flame Resistance | Non-flammable, self-extinguishing |
| Dielectric Strength | Very high |
| Toxic Gases | None (asbestos-free) |
| Corona Resistance | Excellent |
| Flexibility | Good (wraps around coils and cables) |
Applications
Transformer Fire Barrier
Mica tape is wrapped around transformer windings to create a fire barrier that maintains electrical insulation integrity during fire conditions. In the event of a fault, the mica barrier prevents fire from propagating through the transformer.
High-Voltage Cable Insulation
Fire-rated cables use mica tape as part of the insulation system to maintain circuit integrity during fire events. This is critical for emergency power circuits, fire alarm systems, and evacuation lighting that must continue operating during a building fire.
Electric Motor Insulation
High-voltage motors use mica tape for slot insulation and phase separation where the combination of high voltage, high temperature, and fire resistance is required.
Industrial Furnace Wiring
Wiring in and around industrial furnaces, kilns, and heating equipment uses mica tape for insulation where temperatures exceed the limits of all other tape types.
Mica Tape vs Other High-Temperature Tapes
| Tape | Max Temp | Fire Barrier | Dielectric | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mica Tape | 500°C | Yes (maintains insulation in fire) | Very High | High |
| Glass Cloth Tape | 200°C | Self-extinguishing only | High | Medium |
| Polyimide Tape | 260°C | No fire barrier rating | High | High |
| Silicone Tape | 220°C | Self-extinguishing only | Medium | Medium |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mica tape used for?
Mica tape is used as fire barrier insulation in transformers, high-voltage cables, and electric motors. It maintains electrical insulation during fire events at temperatures up to 500°C.
Is mica tape fireproof?
Mica tape is non-flammable and maintains its insulation properties during fire exposure. It does not burn, does not produce toxic gases, and provides a fire barrier that prevents flame propagation through insulated components.
What is the difference between mica tape and glass cloth tape?
Mica tape withstands 500°C and provides a true fire barrier that maintains insulation during fire. Glass cloth tape handles 200°C and is self-extinguishing but does not maintain insulation integrity through a sustained fire event.
