Overview
A micro prismatic reflective tape in 100% PVC: the reflective face is a micro-prism array rather than glass beads, so it returns more light back along the sight line and reads brighter at distance. Sewn on for high visibility clothing, life vests and bags.
Specification
- Code: RS-F-PT-01
- Material: 100% PVC
- Reflective coefficient: >300 cd/(lx·m²)
- Width: 1 – 15 cm, made to order
- Thickness: 0.15 / 0.21 / 0.25 / 0.28 mm
- Daytime colour: made to order
- Attachment: sew on
- Application: hi-vis clothing, life vests, bags
Prismatic versus glass bead
A prismatic face is an array of micro prisms, which returns light more efficiently than a bead face at the same area. That matters where the tape is narrow or seen at an angle. The trade-off is a firmer, heavier hand on PVC, so it suits outerwear, vests and bags better than a soft knit panel.
Micro-prismatic is the more efficient construction
Prismatic tape returns light more efficiently than glass bead at the same area, which is why it is the usual route to a higher class. The trade is a stiffer hand and a surface that shows scuffing sooner.
What to confirm before ordering
- Measured coefficient and test method: a figure without its method is not comparable between suppliers.
- Wash cycle: domestic or industrial - the adhesive changes with the cycle.
- Substrate or shell fabric: send it, so the bond can be matched rather than assumed.
- Width and slitting: state the finished width, since slitting changes the edge.
Compliance note
This is micro-prismatic sheeting, stated at over 300 cd/(lx·m²) — below the 330 cd/(lx·m²) floor that EN ISO 20471 sets for retroreflective material, so on its own it cannot carry a 20471 claim. Prismatic sheeting also behaves differently from glass bead as the viewing angle opens, so the figure has to be read at the observation angle the application actually uses, not at the peak.
If the finished article has to carry an EN ISO 20471 or ANSI/ISEA 107 claim, say so before the order: the grade and the evidence are chosen together, and changing either afterwards means a new build.
Related formats
Related builds: Checkerboard Prismatic Reflective PVC Tape. Overview at Reflective Materials.
Samples and lead time
A4 swatches are free so your team can check colour and hand feel before committing. Standard lead time is 2–4 weeks from order confirmation.
