Reflective Tapes

Reflective tapes as the name suggest are the tapes that reflect light and increase the visibility during night or in harsh weather. Spotting any one in the dark is not possible but if the reflective tapes are used then this is realistic. Because of its extensive use in safety products, equipments, signs boards, clothes, cars and other things it is also called safety reflective tape. New innovations are part and parcel of this industry so reflective tape manufacturers keep this in mind and remains up-to-date.

The safety reflective tapes are available in all sorts of vibrant colors like blue, yellow, orange, red and green. But you can also go for the invisible reflective tapes that will not ruin the appearance where ever you are using it. Along with reflective tape you will also find reflective sheets, reflective fabric tape and reflective spray paint. Large reflective sheets are cut into required dimensions and shapes. But mostly width of these safety reflective tapes can be 1, 2 and 3 inches where as the length can vary from 50 to 150 yards.

These tapes also have a lifespan and most of these have the span of seven years, if used outside. Also you can get adhesive reflective tapes and non-adhesive tapes. For non-adhesive reflective tapes extra applicator is required.

Adhesive tapes can be used on any kind of surface. Most of the hazard reflective tapes are given extra protective lamination that does not allow the tape to wear off. 3m scotchlite reflective tape is very popular in the market as it retains about 90% of its retro-reflectivity even wet. These reflective tapes are given excellent angularity for more efficiency at night. For nighttime visibility 3M reflective tapes are used on vehicles, sign boards or any other work apparels.

Which Reflecting Tape to Buy?

Buy the reflecting tape according to the style that your are going to use. Also consider the thing on which you are going to use this tape. There are many colors, styles and grades of these reflective tapes. The physical properties like adhesive nature, strength, chemical resistance and light also makes the difference in the type and styles of reflecting tapes, so consider these also while picking the one. Reflective tape manufacturers manufacture all sorts of these.

Based on style you can go for the following types

1. Laser reflective tape
2. Reflective adhesive tapes
3. Industrial reflective tape

Based on Grades you will find the following types of tapes

1. Construction
2. Engineering
3. High intensity
4. Multipurpose

Reflective adhesive tapes are bought when you require them on truck, construction signs, hazards or on other warning signs at construction site or traffic site. In case of high visibility and safety application use industrial reflective tape. Reflective tapes are made from the special dyes and phosphorous that make these amazing. For the best efficiency the angle of reflection should be 90^o.

Industries Where Reflective Tapes are Used

There are several industries where the reflective tapes are used. These include plumbing, aerospace, construction, traffic, automotive and in gaming industry.

Application of Reflective Tape

If you have a craze for night riding then conspicuousness or visibility is very important for the safety. By adding reflective tapes to your bike and clothes you not only provide yourself a safety but also it can enhance your style. Although there are range of reflective material available like reflective pinstripe, reflective motorcycle decals, and reflective motorcycle kits but the reflective tape is most widely used reflective fabrics. Red and white reflective tapes are extensively used by the riders at night. Even you can put these on your car for extra safety. But make sure that you are also using the electric lights of the car or any of your vehicle.

Safety reflective tapes are used in safety clothes.

You can also sew the reflective tape of the bag of your child. These safety reflective tapes should be placed on the color that is contrasting to the tape. Like you can use the red color reflective fiber if the bag's color is yellow.

Reflective tapes are also used in sign boards on the sides of road and public places. Driving directions on the board are also written with these reflective material. It makes them easy to read at night.

Apart from this, these tapes are used in mailboxes, boats, bikes, driveway markers.

Reflective tapes for trailers, clothing and motorcycles is extensively used and you can find reflective tapes in India that has the huge manufacturing market.