What are the different grades of reflective tape?
China Reflective Sheeting/Tape Manufacturer
2026-09-23
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What are the different grades of reflective tape?
The grade of reflective tape is mainly divided based on its anti reflection performance, and the grade names and classification methods vary under different standard systems. Common classifications include commercial jargon (such as engineering grade, high-strength grade) and standardized specifications (such as ASTM, EN, ECE, etc.).
Common levels in business: from low to high in performance
| Common names | Reflection principle | Relative brightness (based on engineering grade) | Typical lifespan | main purpose |
| Engineer Grade | Glass microbeads (lens embedded) | 1x | 3-7 years | Low traffic roads, temporary signs, general billboards |
| High Intensity | Sealed capsule glass microspheres | About 3x | 10 years | Signs for general roads and highways |
| Diamond Grade | Microprism (cube corner) | Above 6x | 10-12 years | Highways, urban expressways, and wide-angle visual recognition scenes |
Standardized classification system
Reflective tape must comply with specific international or national standards, which are typically accurately labeled with "Type" or "Class".
◉ American Standard (ASTM D4956)
ASTM D4956 is the core standard for reflective films used in traffic signs, classified by Type, with larger numbers typically indicating more advanced technology and higher performance.
• Type I: Engineering grade, medium strength, lens embedded glass microbeads.
• Type II: Super engineering grade, medium to high strength, using larger glass microspheres.
• Type III: High strength, high strength, sealed capsule glass microbeads or microprisms.
• Type IV: High strength, high strength, non-metallic microprism.
• Type V: Super grade, ultra-high strength, metalized microprism, commonly used for contour markers and protruding road signs.
• Type VIII, IX, XI: Diamond grade, using non-metallic cube corner microprisms, with extremely high performance, commonly used in scenarios that require high long-range visibility.
◉ European standard (EN 12899)
The EN 12899 standard mainly uses Class RA to classify the reflectivity level of reflective films, with higher numbers indicating better performance.
• Class RA1: The lowest level, corresponding to the basic reflective performance.
• Class RA2: Medium reflective grade, is a commonly used high-performance reflective film.
• Class RA3: The highest level, providing optimal long-range visibility.
◉ Vehicle Marking Standard (ECE 104)
For the body reflective markings of large vehicles such as trucks, the European Economic Commission Regulation ECE 104 is a universal standard. The reflective tape under this regulation is usually rated as Class C, which represents the highest brightness level allowed by the regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main grades of reflective tape?
A: Common commercial grades: Engineer, High Intensity, Diamond; standards use ASTM Type, EN Class, JT/T 279.
A: Common commercial grades: Engineer, High Intensity, Diamond; standards use ASTM Type, EN Class, JT/T 279.
Q: What’s the difference between Engineer, High Intensity, and Diamond?
A: Brightness and durability increase: Engineer ~1x, High Intensity ~3x, Diamond >6x.
A: Brightness and durability increase: Engineer ~1x, High Intensity ~3x, Diamond >6x.
Q: What does ASTM D4956 Type mean?
A: It indicates reflective sheeting class/performance; Type I–XI, higher number usually means higher performance.
A: It indicates reflective sheeting class/performance; Type I–XI, higher number usually means higher performance.
Q: What grade is common for vehicle reflective tape?
A: Large vehicles often use ECE 104 Class C, usually high-brightness microprismatic.
A: Large vehicles often use ECE 104 Class C, usually high-brightness microprismatic.
Q: How to choose the right grade?
A: Low-risk/temporary: Engineer; road signs: High Intensity; highway/long-distance: Diamond; follow local standards.
A: Low-risk/temporary: Engineer; road signs: High Intensity; highway/long-distance: Diamond; follow local standards.
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