Nikkalite HIM Type 4 Prismatic Reflective Tape is a high-intensity micro-prismatic retroreflective sheeting. It is an acrylic-based film that is rugged and air-backed, providing excellent durability and long-lasting performance. This type of reflective tape is manufactured by Nippon Carbide and is known for its daytime vividness, nighttime brightness and ability to stick and adhere to almost any smooth flat surface.
The HIM Type 4 tape utilizes man-made prisms for reflectivity, making it twice as bright as high-intensity glass bead films and seven times brighter than engineer grade films. It reflects light further than lower-typed glass bead films, ensuring enhanced visibility and safety.
Due to its acrylic-based composition, the HIM Type 4 tape is stiffer and less conformable compared to other reflective tapes. It is best installed on flat surfaces to ensure optimal performance. This tape has a long outdoor life of 10 years, making it suitable for various applications that require long-term visibility.
How Type 4 Compares to Other Grades
Understanding where Type 4 fits in the reflective tape hierarchy is important for selecting the right product. Engineer grade (Type 1) is the most basic level of reflective tape and is suitable for short-range, non-critical applications. Super engineer grade (Type 2) is roughly twice as bright as standard engineer grade. High intensity glass bead (Type 3) was a significant step up and was widely used for traffic signs for many years. Type 4 high intensity prismatic surpasses all of these by using micro-prismatic technology instead of glass beads, delivering brighter retroreflection at wider entrance angles. For a comprehensive comparison of all tape grades, see our article on the 11 different types of reflective tape.
One practical advantage of the Type 4 rating is that it meets the requirements for many traffic sign and work zone applications where Type 3 was previously specified. Because it uses prismatic technology, it maintains better reflectivity at wider observation angles, which means it performs well for drivers on multi-lane highways who may be viewing signs from an offset position rather than straight on.
Application Tips for Nikkalite Type 4
Because this tape has an acrylic-based construction, it is stiffer than vinyl-based reflective tapes. This means it should be applied to flat or very gently curved surfaces. Attempting to wrap it around tight curves, such as poles or small-diameter cylinders, may cause the tape to buckle or lift at the edges. For applications that require wrapping around curved objects, a more conformable product like the Oralite V98 conformable prismatic tape may be a better choice. When applying Nikkalite Type 4, clean the surface thoroughly before installation and use firm pressure with a squeegee to ensure full contact between the adhesive and the substrate. Avoid applying in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for the best initial bond.
Nikkalite HIM Type 4 Prismatic Reflective Tape is available in multiple colors, including white, orange, blue, green, red, and yellow. It comes in widths of 1″, 2″, 4″, and 6″ inches, providing flexibility in application options.
For more detailed specifications and information about Nikkalite HIM Type 4 Prismatic Reflective Tape, you can visit the following link: Nikkalite HIM Type 4 Prismatic Reflective Tape or here Nikkalite and Oralite Type 4 Spec Sheets.
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