Tesafilm

Tesafilm Covertape is a versatile, high-quality adhesive tape widely used in the aviation industry. Designed for applications where strength, flexibility, and a clean finish are required, Tesafilm Covertape provides a lightweight solution for securing components, covering seams, and protecting surfaces without compromising aerodynamic performance. Its durable adhesive and easy-to-use design make it an essential tool for both professional workshops and recreational owners.

Applications in Gliders and Sailplanes with Tesafilm

Tesafilm Covertape is primarily used to attach and secure lightweight materials and components on gliders and sailplanes, including:

• Mylar hinge gap seals: Tesafilm tape can hold Mylar strips firmly in place along control surface hinges, ensuring smooth airflow and reducing drag while allowing the surfaces to move freely.

• Interior trim panels: Tesafilm Covertape provides a reliable way to attach panels or liners without the need for screws or rivets. This keeps weight low and protects composite surfaces.

• Protective coverings and films: Tesafilm Covertape secures protective films over sensitive surfaces during maintenance or assembly, preventing scratches, dust ingress, and minor damage.

• Temporary fixtures and alignment aids: During assembly or repair, Covertape can hold components in position temporarily before permanent bonding or fastening, offering precision and flexibility.

Advantages of Tesafilm Covertape

Tesafilm Covertape is favored in glider maintenance for several reasons:

• Strong adhesion: It bonds well to a variety of materials, including composites, metals, and painted surfaces.

• Lightweight: Unlike mechanical fasteners, Tesafilm tape adds minimal weight, preserving aerodynamic performance and glide ratio.

• Flexible and durable: Tesafilm Covertape maintains its hold even under vibration, temperature changes, and repeated movement.

• Smooth, clean finish: Because the tape is thin and easily concealed, it does not interfere with airflow or create extra drag.

• Easy to apply and remove: Tesafilm Covertape is user-friendly, allowing for accurate placement and simple repositioning when needed, with no residue left behind.

Technical Considerations

For optimal adhesion, surfaces should be clean, dry, and free from dust, grease, or other contaminants. Painted surfaces, particularly polyurethane (PU) finishes, should be fully cured before Tesafilm application. While Covertape is strong and durable, make sure the tape does not restrict movement of control surfaces or overlap in a way that could crease the material it holds.

Maintenance and Inspection

Regular inspection of areas secured with Tesafilm Covertape is recommended. Over time, exposure to UV light, temperature changes, and mechanical stress may reduce the tape’s effectiveness. Any lifting, peeling, or reduced adhesion should be corrected quickly to maintain aerodynamic efficiency and flight safety.

Only available in 66m rolls.

View Streifly’s range of aviation tapes including Mylar sealing tape, turbulator tape, Teflon tape and textile tape for glider and aircraft applications. Browse our glider care products including tapes, cleaners, and maintenance supplies