SMT Splice Tape Selection Guide
Choose splice tape in four steps: (1) identify your feeder detection type — metal-sensing, emitter-receiver, color-detecting, or non-detecting; (2) match the exact carrier width from 8 to 56 mm; (3) decide ESD-safe vs standard; (4) pick single or double splice. The wrong detection type causes missed splices and feeder jams.
Step 1: Identify your feeder detection type
This is the single most important selection criterion. A splice the feeder cannot detect is worse than no splice at all — the machine keeps placing from an empty pocket and you lose components. Use the matrix below to map your machine brand to the detection type.
| Detection type | Machine brands | Required tape |
|---|---|---|
| Metal-sensing | Fuji, ASMPT (Siemens) | Tape with metalized detection strip |
| Emitter-receiver (optical) | Panasonic, Yamaha, Juki, Hanwha | Opaque tape that interrupts the beam |
| Color-detecting | Universal | High-contrast color tape (e.g. black/yellow) |
| Non-detecting | Europlacer, Mycronic, older generic feeders | Standard single or double splice tape |
Step 2: Match the carrier width exactly
Splice tape must match the carrier tape width: 8, 12, 16, 24, 32, 44, or 56 mm. An 8 mm tape on a 12 mm carrier will not cover the sprocket holes and will fail; a wider tape overhangs and catches in the feeder. Standard packs are 500 pieces for 8–16 mm and 250 pieces for 24–56 mm.
Step 3: Decide on ESD protection
Standard splice tape suits passive components and rugged parts. If your BOM includes ICs, LEDs, MOSFETs, or RF devices, specify ESD-safe (static-dissipative) tape. The cost difference is small compared to one ESD-damaged batch.
Step 4: Single vs double splice
Single splice tape joins the carrier base; the operator handles the cover tape separately. Double splice tape joins carrier and cover in one piece — roughly twice as fast and the default for 8–24 mm high-speed lines. For 32–56 mm wide tapes, single splice with a separate cover-tape joint is common.
Rule of thumb: detection type first, width second, ESD third, single/double fourth. Get the first two right and you eliminate over 90% of splicing failures on the line.
Selection FAQs
What is the difference between single and double splice tape?
Single splice tape joins the carrier tape base only; the cover tape is spliced separately or left to the feeder. Double splice tape joins carrier and cover tape in one operation with a single piece, cutting splice time roughly in half. Double splice is the standard choice for high-speed lines running 8–24 mm tapes.
How do I know which detection type my feeder uses?
Check your feeder manual: metal-sensing feeders (Fuji, ASMPT) detect the splice via a metalized strip; emitter-receiver feeders (Panasonic, Yamaha, Juki, Hanwha) need a tape that interrupts the optical beam; color-detecting feeders (Universal) read a color contrast; older or generic feeders may be non-detecting. When in doubt, send us your feeder model and we will confirm.
Do I need ESD-safe splice tape?
If you place ESD-sensitive components (most ICs, LEDs, RF parts), yes. ESD splice tape uses static-dissipative materials to prevent charge buildup during splicing and feeding. For purely passive or rugged parts, standard tape is sufficient and more economical.
What widths and pack sizes are standard?
Carrier tape widths run 8, 12, 16, 24, 32, 44, and 56 mm. Splice tape is typically packed 500 pieces per bag for 8–16 mm and 250 pieces per bag for 24–56 mm. Match the splice tape width exactly to your carrier tape width.
Can I get samples before committing to volume?
Yes. We provide engineering samples so you can validate splice strength, feeder detection, and ESD performance on your own line before placing a production order.
Not sure which tape fits your feeder?
Send us your feeder model and carrier widths — we will recommend the exact splice tape, confirm ESD options, and ship engineering samples from our U.S. warehouse for line validation.
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