A pull tape is a very commonly used tool in the cable installation process. It is used by network installers to route wiring such as phone and speaker wires and network cables, through electrical conduit and walls. It eliminates the extra labor that would otherwise be required when working with a combination of strings, ropes and winch lines. Pull tapes are available in different lengths and strengths.
Pull tapes have special features that enable their super performance. They include:
- They are pre-lubricated to reduce friction and to guard against breaking. This makes it easy to use.
- They maintain their flat shape and therefore easily blown into shape.
- Their tension is balanced across the length of the pull tape which prevents flossing.
- They can be pre-installed.
- They are used to protect conduit infrastructure
- The pull tapes’ flat designs enable even distribution of the side-wall load and reduce duct burn-through.
- The tapes are very light making it very easy for installers to blow them through conduits.
- Pull tapes are able to disperse loads over large surface areas of conduit thereby reducing heat build-ups and burn-throughs caused by friction especially at corners.
- Pull tapes also have accurate sequential markings. They ensure precise measurements of conduits eliminate the use of measuring tapes as well as help in locating crushed cables.
- They can be easily spliced.
Some of the most commonly used pull tapes include the reliable polyester pull tapes and steel fish tapes. Polyester pull tapes have high tensile strength which means low stretching even under high strengths. They are specially lubricated with silicone to minimize the risk of burn-throughs. The steel fish pull tape is flat and rugged and excellent for tough jobs. The ruggedness offers easier grip and rapid tape payout and rewind. It can be used in all kinds of conduits.