3M
3M 983-21 ES Conspicuity Tape Fluorescent Yellow 4 in 18 mil
Fluorescent yellow retroreflective tape, 4 inches wide and 18 mil thick, adheres to vehicles and equipment for high-visibility safety marking
- TypeFlagging Tape
- FinishFluorescent Yellow
- High-visibility fluorescent yellow for day and night conspicuity
- 4 in width by 50 yd roll covers large vehicle surfaces
- 18 mil thick retroreflective microprismatic backing resists weather
- Acrylic adhesive bonds 2.5 to 6.0 lb/in on metal and composite
- 3M 983-21 ES grade meets DOT conspicuity requirements
Conspicuity Tape for Vehicle Visibility
3M 983-21 ES Conspicuity Tape is a fluorescent yellow retroreflective sheeting designed to mark trucks, trailers and heavy equipment. The acrylic adhesive bonds to painted metal, aluminium, stainless steel and FRP panels so fleet operators can meet conspicuity requirements with a single roll.
Outdoor Durability and Adhesion Strength
The microprismatic backing maintains reflectivity after prolonged outdoor exposure. Peel adhesion ranges from 2.5 lb per inch on FRP to 6.0 lb per inch on stainless steel, with intermediate values of 3.0, 3.5 and 5.3 lb per inch on other common substrates.
Four-Inch Width and Eighteen-Mil Thickness
At 4 in wide and 18 mil thick the tape bridges rivets and panel gaps without excessive bulk. Supplied in a 50 yd cut length it allows continuous runs along trailer sides, reducing seams and simplifying installation for maintenance crews.
Highlights
- High-visibility fluorescent yellow for day and night conspicuity
- 4 in width by 50 yd roll covers large vehicle surfaces
- 18 mil thick retroreflective microprismatic backing resists weather
- Acrylic adhesive bonds 2.5 to 6.0 lb/in on metal and composite
- 3M 983-21 ES grade meets DOT conspicuity requirements
Specifications
| Brand | 3M |
|---|---|
| Type | Flagging Tape |
| Finish | Fluorescent Yellow |
Questions about this item
How do I apply the 983-21 ES 4 in wide retroreflective tape so the acrylic adhesive bonds correctly?
Clean the surface until it is free of oil and dust, then press the 18 mil thick tape firmly across its full width; the step most people skip is using a roller or squeegee to remove every air pocket before the adhesive sets.
What upkeep does the fluorescent yellow conspicuity tape need after it is installed on a trailer?
Inspect the microprismatic retroreflective surface periodically for dirt, road salt or impact damage; wash gently with mild soap and water, and replace any section where the fluorescent yellow finish has faded or the acrylic bond has lifted.
Which environmental limit appears first when the 50 yd roll is exposed to continuous sun and weather?
The fluorescent yellow pigment and retroreflective microprisms degrade under sustained UV exposure before the acrylic adhesive fails, so the tape loses conspicuity performance first.
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