Type 5 films are primarily used for delineators and channelizers on highways and streets. It is a unique film in that it is brighter than all other reflective sheeting, thinner, more rugged, made in a single layer, and CAD cuttable. Type 5 is used extensively for non signage applications. Things like DOT tapes, marine applications,…
Type 6 is a non adhesive, air backed, prismatic, flexible sheeting that is used for traffic control signing in temporary work zones, utility, and incident management applications. It has a Class 5 backing which simply means no adhesive. This material is used almost exclusively for roll up temporary signs. These may be used in work…
This material has been “discontinued” and is no longer manufactured. It has been replaced by Type 5 for Delineators and Channelizes, and Type 8 or 11 for Highway Signs. Therefore, no spec sheets are available for it, however, I have posted candela ratings below. Photometrics for Type 7 Sheeting (minimum coefficient of reflection in candelas)…
Type 8 film is manufactured using high clarity acrylic film and an air backed micro prismatic array. It is similar to type 4 sheeting, but brighter. Type 8 Highway sheeting is very bright at long distances and also very rugged. Its primary use is permanent traffic signage where long sight distance is needed. Sign applications…
Type 9 prismatic sheeting is designated as wide observation retro reflective sheeting because it reflects a wider cone of reflectivity. This allows the film to be observed at wide angles from the light source. It has the highest retro reflectivity characteristics at short distances and is used for ground mounted highway signs, barricades, bollards, buildings,…
This material has been “discontinued” and is no longer manufactured. It has been replaced by Type 5 for Delineators and Channelizes, and Type 8 or 11 for Highway Signs. Therefore, no spec sheets are available for it, however, I have posted candela ratings below. Photometrics for Type 10 Sheeting (minimum coefficient of reflection in candelas)…
Type 11 Ultra Brilliant Wide Observation Sheeting is the newest type of retro reflective film on the market. It combines long sign distance reflectivity with wide observation technology. The resulting film can be seen from farther away than comparable films, and is visible at wider observation angles. (higher angles from the light source) In the…
For decades, Reflective Tapes have been a mainstay in the United States for transportation and marine safety, particularly in dark and stormy conditions. Reflective tape prevents accidents, shows due diligence, and reduces liability in the case of an unfortunate event such as a collision. Making dangerous objects visible at night is not only the right…
Our article on the NFPA 1901 recommendations for striping fire trucks covers the widths and types of reflective tape that should be used on the backs, sides, doors, and front of fire trucks. Reflective stripes can be applied to trucks in a few different ways, with each having its own advantages and disadvantages. First, you…
Reflective Tapes for Work Zones or Temporary Traffic Control Zones In work zones or temporary traffic control zones, reflective tape and sheeting are utilized for a variety of purposes. This article focuses on those applications. A “Work Zone” is a designated section of a traffic thoroughfare where construction, maintenance, or utility work operations are marked…