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ASTM D-4956 Regulations identify 11 types of retro-reflective sheeting for signs. It also lists 5 classes or types of adhesive backings. Retro-reflectivity, observation angles, photo-metrics, durability, and color characteristics determine the type, 1 - 11.  Minimum standards must be met for each type. In general, the higher the tape type, the brighter the tape, but this is not always so.  Type 5 sheeting would be an example of this. Adhesive backing classes are classified by the application of the sheeting.  Where it will be installed and how.Retro Reflective Sheeting Types (ASTM D-4956) - Candela ratings based on a .2 observation angle/-4 entrance...

For SOLAS (safety of life at sea), there are two types of devices or applications.  Type I devices and Type II devices.  Both Type 1 and Type 2 apply to SOLAS applications, but require different characteristics for the tape to meet different "environmental" conditions.  It is actually very simple and practical.  Below is an excerpt directly from Chapter I - Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security - Subchapter Q - Equipment, Construction, and Materials: Specifications and Approval - Part 164 - Materials - Subpart 164.018 - Retroreflective Material for Lifesaving Equipment § 164.018-3 Classification. The following types of retroreflective material are approved under...

Chevron and Reflective Panels in Different Colors - ReflectivePro (Custom Panels Website) Lime and Red Reflective Panels are highly effective due to the brightness of the Fluorescent Lime both day and night and the contrast of the Red. It is for this reason that the Lime and Red color combination is used by fire departments and EMS vehicles. These panels grab the attention of other drivers. The problem is that other industries often want to use different color combinations so that they are safe, but not mistaken for an EMS vehicle. Since there are no laws governing which colors you...

Ten Types of Reflective Tape - Deciding Which One is Best for You. Introduction Reflective tapes vary in flexibility, durability, vividness, color and brightness. These are all factors to consider when selecting which type of tape to use for your application. This post will briefly discuss each type of "standard reflective tape" that our company carries. (Our "specialty reflective tapes" will be discussed in a separate article.) The goal of this article is to help you select the tape that is best for your job. Choosing the right reflective tape involves considering all factors which include the surface the tape...

Oralite (formerly Reflexite) manufactures two types of SOLAS.  A 1403 version and a 1404 version.  1403 SOLAS comes in self-adhesive and sew on and 1404 comes only in a self-adhesive version. Both versions reflect the same, are durable, and share the same strong adhesive. Both films are also single layer tapes that do not delaminate like other SOLAS tapes. The difference is in the flexibility, conformability, and stretchability of the films themselves.  Note - Oralite 1403 SOLAS fulfills requirements for Type 1 and Type 2 applications.  Oralite 1404 SOLAS fulfills requirements for Type 1 only.  See below for more information....