Water Activated Tape Dispensers – what are the choices?
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Water activated tape is environmentally friendly and makes pilfer proof packaging, which is why people love it. What dispenser suits you will depend on your volumes and whether you require pre-set lengths, and what variability you require in your lengths.
Water activated tape (also known as gummed paper tape), is an eco-friendly, tamper-evident solution for securely sealing cardboard boxes. Made from paper with a starch-based adhesive, it bonds firmly to cartons when moistened - creating a strong seal that can't be removed without visible damage.
It's a favourite among businesses looking for sustainable shipping materials that offer both security and environmental benefits.
Why Choose Water Activated Paper Tape over standard packaging Tape?
There are three key benefits that make gummed paper tape a superior alternative to traditional plastic packging tape:
✅ 1. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
Water Activated tape is made of paper and a plant-derived adhesive, making it fully recyclable and biodegradable. It's a perfect choice for brands prioritising environmentally conscious packaging.
✅ 2. Tamper-Evident Security
Once applied, the adhesive penetrates the carton fibres and forms a permanent bond. It cannot be lifted or repositioned without tearing the box - providing clear evidence of tampering or attempted pilferage.
✅3. Fast, Efficient Application
Used with a water-activated tape dispenser, the tape is moistend and dispensed in pre-measured strips, making it quicker and easier to apply than standard tape guns.
Which Water Activated Tape Dispenser Should You Choose?
The right gummed tape dispenser for you depends on your packing volume, tape width, and the level of automation you need.
Manual Desk-Top Dispensers: 2 -WA-D-480, 2-WA-D-T001, 2-WA-D-P3S
- Most economical option
- Accepts Tape up to 50mm (2-WA-D-P3S), 80mm (2-WA-S-T001) or 85mm wide (2-WA-D-480)
- Includes fine tooth blade, water reservoir
- Operates like a traditional tape dispenser - pull to moisten and apply
Best for: Low volume users looking for a simple, budget friendly solution
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Manual Pre-Set Length Dispenser - 2-WA-D-BP222
- Can dispenser 25cm of tape with each push of the lever
- Open the hinged top to fill the tank with water
- Easy push cutting lever
- No electricity needed
Manual Pre-Set Length Dispenser - 2-WA-BP333
- Offers 15 pre-set tape lengths
- Fill the bottle with water, pull the lever to dispense
- Tape is automaticaly moistened and cut to length
- No electricity needed
Best for: Users who prefer consistency in tape lengths without needing electronics
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Electronic Gummmer Tape Dispenser - 2-WA-D-BP555
- Fully automated, ideal for high volume packing
- 14 colour coded keys for pre-set lengths (150-145cm)
- Automatic advance dispenses next piece when the previous one is removed
- Dispensing speed: 114cm/sec
- Requires power
Electronic Gummmer Tape Dispenser - 2-WA-D-EG-100
- Fully automated, ideal for high volume packing
- 10 colour coded keys for pre-set lengths as well as custom pre-set lengths (13-300cm)
- Can set to auto advance the next piece of tape
- Requires power
Best for: High-throughput environments where speed and automation are critical
| Model | Type | Power Req | Pre-set lengths | Best For |
| 2 -WA-D-480 | Manual | No | No | Low volume use |
| 2-WA-D-T001 | Manual | No | No | Low volume use |
| 2-WA-D-P3S | Manual | No | No | Low volume use |
| 2-WA-D-BP222 | Manual | No | No | Custom lengths manually |
| 2-WA-BP333 | Manual | No | Yes (15) | Consistent pre-set lengths |
| 2-WA-D-BP555 | Electric | Yes | Yes (14) | High volume automation |
| 2-WA-D-EG-100 | Electric | Yes | Yes-programmable | High volume automation |
FAQ's
Q: Can I recycle water activated tape with my boxes?
Yes? It's made of paper and natural adhesive, so it can be recycled along with cardboard cartons
Q: Is water activated tape stronger than plastic tape?
Yes. It creates a stronger, permanent bond with cartons and can't be removed without damaging the surface - making it more secure.
Q: Do I need electricity to use a dispenser?
Only the Electric models require power. All others are manual and require no electricity.
Ready to Upgrade Your Packaging?
Explore our full range of eco-friendly packaging solutions, or contact us for advice on the right water activated tape dispenser for your needs. Watch demo videos, compare features, and make the switch to more secure, sustainable packaging.
Video below is of the 2-WA-D-EG100 Electronic Water Activated Tape Dispenser.
