Electronic Device Assembly Solutions | Tapes, Bonding & Converting

Electronic device assembly solutions can be challenging, as components are getting smaller, power densities are increasing, and a warranty return caused by a failed bond can end up costing more than the entire bill of materials. If you are sourcing a thermal pad for a power module or an adhesive stack for a new enclosure, then the converter you select will play a key role in how your product performs.

Founded in 1949, Gleicher is a 3M™ Preferred Converter with more than 75 years of experience converting pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes, films, and foams for electronics manufacturers across industrial, medical, consumer, aerospace, defense and transportation applications.

The Challenge of Modern Electronic Device Assembly

There are three main pressures that shape most device programs.

The first is miniaturization. Engineers are expected to deliver more functionality in less space, which reduces the room available for traditional mechanical fasteners.

The second pressure is thermal load. Higher component density generates more heat, and that heat needs to be managed effectively without affecting the surrounding structure.

The third is EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). As wireless functionality is now standard in most devices, shielding and grounding need to be considered during the design process rather than added later.

Devices still need to withstand drops, humidity, thermal cycling, and real-world use. With this in mind, Gleicher supports these challenges as a partner in adhesive selection and converting. We help engineering teams identify suitable materials, convert them into usable formats, and deliver them ready for production.

Learn more about who we are on our About Gleicher page.

Thermal Management Tapes for Electronic Device Assembly Solutions

Heat is the silent killer. Just a few more degrees of junction temperature can cut the field life of an LED or a power semiconductor in half. Thermally conductive tapes and pads provide a consistent way to transfer heat without the variability of paste and without the complexity of mechanical fastening.

At Gleicher, we convert 3M™ thermal products. This includes thermally conductive double-sided tapes for heat sink attachment, phase change materials for CPUs, as well as gap filler pads for uneven surfaces. We also provide custom thicknesses and protective liners that are suited to your process.

EMI/RFI Shielding and Conductive Materials

If your device includes a radio, motor, or high-speed electronics, then EMI needs to be addressed early in the design process. Conductive tapes, metal foils, as well as grounding materials help close shielding gaps and create reliable electrical paths.

At Gleicher, we work with a range of conductive adhesive systems and materials. This includes copper and aluminum foils to produce parts that meet your design requirements. Whether you require a die-cut gasket, slit tape, or a grounding strip prepared for easy placement, our team can support the entire process.

Structural Assembly with VHB and Double-Sided Tapes

VHB allows designers to reduce or eliminate mechanical fasteners in certain applications. This high-performance tape supports reduced weight and improved performance under dynamic loads.

Gleicher is able to convert VHB and similar materials into rolls, multi-layer laminations, and die-cut parts based on your specific requirements. We also support applications that need to withstand demanding conditions, such as long-term environmental exposure and thermal shock.

Custom Die-Cut Parts for Electronics Assembly

We do not only supply raw material into an assembly line, we also supply converted parts. These include die-cut gaskets, insulation layers, thermal pads, and acoustic components.

We operate rotary and flatbed die-cutting systems, along with laser cutting, slitting, laminating, and white room fabrication. We can work from CAD files, physical samples, as well as early-stage concepts. White room converting is also available at Gleicher for applications such as medical devices, optical components, and sensitive electronics.

Reclosable fasteners for Serviceable Devices

While many components may be permanently bonded, others remain serviceable. Reclosable fasteners (such as 3M™ Dual Lock™) and reusable attachment systems allow access panels and modular components to be opened and closed multiple times.

We supply and convert 3M™ Dual Lock™ as well as VELCRO® brand and other industrial hook-and-loop into cut lengths, die-cut coins, and custom shapes, along with adhesive-backed fastening solutions.

3M™ Preferred Converter: Single-Source Electronics Supply

Gleicher is a 3M™ Preferred Converter; this means we have direct access to 3M™ materials and engineering support. This reduces delays, improves communication, and allows our team to provide more accurate material recommendations.

For our customers, this means we act as a single source for thermal, structural, conductive, and fastening components, reducing the need to manage multiple suppliers.

Partnering with Gleicher on Your Next Device Program

At Gleicher, we understand that each project requires a tailored approach based on materials, design, and performance requirements. With this in mind, we work with engineering teams at various stages, from early concept through to production.

This helps refine material selection and convert materials into production-ready components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What industries does Gleicher support for electronic device assembly?

We work across consumer electronics, industrial controls, medical devices, aerospace, and defense. Programs range from high-volume consumer builds to low-volume regulated assemblies where traceability and documentation matter more than unit cost.

What's the difference between a distributor and a 3M™ Preferred Converter?

A distributor resells rolls. A 3M™ Preferred Converter buys master rolls and transforms them into finished die-cut, slit, or laminated parts on their own floor. That means tighter tolerances, real engineering support, and no middleman on material questions.

Do you handle prototypes as well as production runs?

Yes. Most of our customers come to us for prototypes first, and those run through the same equipment that will eventually make the production order. That continuity avoids the nasty surprise where a prototype part behaves differently from the production part.

Can you help if we don't know which adhesive we need yet?

Yes. With our years of experience and knowledge of materials we can help select a suitable adhesive for your application. We take into account the substrates, the environmental conditions, and how the part gets assembled.

Start Your Project with Gleicher

Whether you're refreshing a mature product or launching something new, Gleicher is ready to quote, sample, and ship electronic device assembly solutions that fit your build. Tell us about your application and we'll help identify suitable materials, recommend an appropriate converting approach, and support your project from prototype through production. Request a quote to get started, or contact our sales team to discuss your project or to talk through a specific program.

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