An explanation of chromaticity and its value in relation to reflective tapes. Chromaticity is defined as an objective, numerical indicator of the quality of a color that stays consistent without regard to the light that is illuminating it. It is the quality of color of an object, independent of brightness. A universal language is something…
Most objects in the universe are capable of reflecting light in some way, which is why we can see them. Light that is reflected is also why we see colors. Objects absorb some colors or wavelengths of light, and reflect others. Even a black surface that is glossy reflects. To reflect simply means that light…
Accidents from collisions often result in property damage, personal injury, and fatalities, and whether an accident from a collision is minor or severe, the fact is, they are almost always avoidable. The key is visibility, conspicuity, and driver alertness. Conspicuity is defined as the property of being clearly discernible. The state or quality of being clear…
The difference between light reflection, light refraction, and light diffraction is simple. With reflection, the light rays striking a surface return towards the originating source of light as the waves spring or bounce off the surface. In refraction, the waves go through a clear medium, and as they travel through it, their speed and direction are altered. In other words, refraction…
Types of Luminescence Luminescence manifests itself in various forms, each defined by distinct mechanisms and characteristics. The key types of luminescence include fluorescence, bioluminescence, chemiluminescence, phosphorescence, crystalloluminescence, photoluminescence, electroluminescence, mechanoluminescence, radioluminescence, and thermoluminescence. Chemiluminescence Chemiluminescence involves the emission of light resulting from a chemical reaction. This phenomenon is observable by bending and shaking a light…
Fluorescent reflective tape is a type of retroreflective sheeting designed to enhance visibility in both standard and low-light conditions by combining fluorescent colors with reflective properties. This type of reflective tape typically features a fluorescent base layer created using special inks that emit a specific kind of light. The fluorescent effect is akin to glow-in-the-dark…
The chart pictured below represents the minimum requirements for retro reflective sheeting and tape for signs and applications that are under the jurisdiction of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). These changes were implemented in 2009. Although the MUTCD guide was most recently updated in 2022, for…
NFPA 1901 Specifications for Fire Trucks – (www.tapedealer.com) The marking of fire apparatus and emergency vehicles is outlined in the NFPA 1901 recommendation. The application of reflective tape in the form of chevron striping to the vehicle’s rear, sides, and front is covered in the recommendation. The majority of departments are following this as a…
In 2013 the NFPA officially included Ambulance Chevron Striping guidelines to their recommendations for Ambulances operating in the US. The NFPA 1917 manual contains these guidelines. The recommendations are nearly a duplicate from their NFPA 1901 manual for Chevron Striping for Fire Apparatus made official in 2009, with the addition of Battenberg patterns. It is…
Please note that the following is for informational purposes and is only a portion of the FRA 224 regulations related to rail cars. Companies looking to mark their rail cars should do their research thoroughly by looking at the actual FRA code to see if there have been any updates or changes since this article…