Types of Tapes Used in Surveying

1. Steel Tape: Steel tapes are the most commonly used type of tape in surveying. These tapes are made of stainless steel, and they are available in a variety of lengths ranging from 1 meter to 500 meters long. Steel tapes are very durable and accurate, and they are ideal for measuring long distances.
2. Fiberglass Tape: Fiberglass tapes are also commonly used in surveying. These tapes are made of fiberglass, and they are available in lengths up to 500 meters long. Fiberglass tapes are lightweight and flexible, and they are ideal for measuring long distances with high accuracy.
3. Vinyl Tape: Vinyl tapes are the most economical type of tape used in surveying. These tapes are made of vinyl, and they are available in lengths up to 50 meters long. Vinyl tapes are lightweight and flexible, and they are ideal for measuring short distances.
4. Paper Tape: Paper tapes are the least expensive type of tape used in surveying. These tapes are made of paper, and they are available in lengths up to 10 meters long. Paper tapes are lightweight and flexible, and they are ideal for measuring short distances with accuracy.
5. Plastic Tape: Plastic tapes are the most durable type of tape used in surveying. These tapes are made of plastic, and they are available in lengths up to 20 meters long. Plastic tapes are lightweight and flexible, and they are ideal for measuring long distances with accuracy.

Types of Tapes Used in Surveying

There are 5 types of tapes available in surveying for linear measurements and they are as follows :

1. Linen Tape
2. Woven Metallic Tape
3. Steel Tape
4. Synthetic Tape
5. Invar Tape

1. Linen Tape

What Is Linen Tape?

Linen tape, also known as cloth tape, is a varnished strip made of closely woven linen material. It typically has a width of 12 to 16 mm and comes in various lengths such as 10m, 20m, 30m, and 50m. It is usually wound in a leather or metal case, with both ends of the tape featuring metallic handles.

Available Lengths of Linen Tape

Linen tape is available in a variety of lengths, including 10m, 20m, 30m, and 50m. It has a width of 12 to 16 mm and is wound in a leather or metal case. Both ends of the tape are equipped with metallic handles for ease of use.

Features of Linen Tape

Linen tape is a varnished strip made of closely woven linen material. It features a width of 12 to 16 mm and comes in various lengths, from 10m to 50m. It is wound in a leather or metal case and both ends of the tape are provided with metallic handles.

Benefits of Using Linen Tapes

Linen tapes are light in weight and easy to handle, making them a great choice for a variety of applications. These tapes are also known for their durability and strength, making them suitable for a number of tasks. Additionally, linen tapes can be used for measuring offsets and for ordinary works.

Limitations of Using Linen Tapes

Linen tapes have their limitations, as they can shrink when exposed to water and also elongate when pulled. This makes them unsuitable for accurate surveying measurements. As such, these tapes are not recommended for tasks that require precise measurements.

2. Woven Metallic Tape

Introduction to Metallic Woven Tape

Metallic woven tape is an enhanced version of the traditional linen tape, featuring a reinforced material made from copper or brass wires. This construction makes the tape more durable than regular linen tape, and a brass ring is provided at the end of the tape to complete the length.

Durability of Metallic Woven Tape

The use of brass or copper wires as a reinforcement for the linen material makes the metallic woven tape much more durable than regular linen tape. Additionally, a brass ring is included at the end of the tape to further increase its strength and durability.

Benefits of Metallic Woven Tape

The use of metal reinforcements makes the metallic woven tape much more durable than regular linen tape. Additionally, the brass ring at the end of the tape adds further strength and stability. This makes the tape suitable for a variety of applications such as packaging, printing, and apparel.

Types of Measuring Tapes
Measuring tapes are available in different lengths, ranging from 2m to 50m. They are designed for survey works such as topographical survey works and are not suitable for precision measurements.

Uses of Measuring Tapes
Measuring tapes are used in survey works and other applications that do not require precise measurements. They are suitable for topographical surveys, construction works, and other similar activities where minor errors can be disregarded.

3. Steel Tape

What is a Steel Tape?
A steel tape is a measuring device made from steel or stainless steel. It consists of a steel strip that is 6mm to 16mm wide and is available in a range of lengths from 1m to 50m. Meters, decimeters, and centimeters are graduated on the steel strip.

Features of a Steel Tape
Steel tapes come with a metal case and an automatic winding device. The tape is drawn from the case by hand and can be rewound with the push of a button. This makes measuring and rewinding easier and more efficient.

Uses of a Steel Tape
Steel tapes are used for various measuring applications, such as measuring distances, areas, and other dimensions. They are commonly used in construction, engineering, and surveying.

What is a Steel Tape?

Steel tapes are measuring devices used for taking accurate measurements of leveled surfaces. They are not as flexible as other types of tapes, such as cloth or fiberglass, as they are mainly designed to measure leveled surfaces. Steel tapes can be used for standardizing chains, measurements of constriction works, and other measuring tasks.

Maintenance for Steel Tapes

Steel tapes can corrode easily when exposed to moisture, making it necessary to clean and oil them after every use to prevent this. This ensures that the tape remains accurate and in good condition over time, allowing for reliable and precise measurements.

Conclusion

Steel tapes are a useful measuring device for taking accurate measurements of leveled surfaces. They are not as flexible as other types of tapes and must be maintained regularly to ensure they remain accurate and in good condition. They are commonly used for standardizing chains, measurements of constriction works, and other measuring tasks.

4. Synthetic Tape

Synthetic Tapes: A Brief Overview

Synthetic tapes are a form of measuring tape made from PVC-coated glass fibers. They are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for a variety of uses. These tapes come in lengths of 5m, 10m, 20m, 30m, and 50m, and may stretch when exposed to tension. Despite this, synthetic tapes are often preferred over steel tapes for measuring in areas near electric fences and railway lines.

Advantages of Synthetic Tapes

Synthetic tapes have numerous advantages compared to steel tapes. They are much lighter and more flexible, making them easier to carry and store. Additionally, they are not prone to rust or corrosion, and they don’t cause sparks when used in situations with electrical equipment. Synthetic tapes are also more affordable than steel tapes, allowing them to be used in a wider range of applications.

Limitations of Synthetic Tapes

Despite their numerous advantages, synthetic tapes have some limitations. The main issue is that they may stretch when subjected to tension, making them unsuitable for accurate surveying works. Additionally, they require extra care when handling, as they are prone to damage from abrasion or impact.

Conclusion

Synthetic tapes are an ideal solution for measuring in areas where steel tapes are not suitable. They are lightweight and flexible, and are not prone to rust or corrosion. However, they may stretch when exposed to tension, making them unsuitable for accurate surveying works. Despite this, synthetic tapes are a reliable and affordable solution for a variety of measuring needs.

5. Invar Tape

What is Invar Tape?

Invar tape is an alloy made up of 36% nickel and 64% steel, with a 6mm wide strip, and available in different lengths of 30m, 50m, and 100m. Invar tape is widely used in high precision works due to its low coefficient of thermal expansion, which makes it unaffected by changes in temperature.

Advantages of Invar Tape

Invar tape has a number of advantages for use in surveying and other high precision works. It is resistant to temperature changes, and has a low coefficient of thermal expansion. In addition, it is more expensive than other types of tape, making it a popular choice for precision work.

Care for Invar Tape

Invar tape should be handled with care, as bends or kinks can easily be formed in it. This can affect its accuracy and reliability, making it unsuitable for use in high precision works. Careful handling and storage of the tape will help ensure its accuracy and reliability.