A T1 field tape measure is a type of measuring tape used for surveying, construction, engineering and other applications that require high accuracy distance measurements. Some key features of T1 field tape measures include:
- Graduated markings in feet, tenths and hundredths of a foot for precision measurement.
- Durable construction from materials like fiberglass to resist stretching and provide stable measurements.
- Reinforced metal handles on each end for grip and support.
- Designed for use both horizontally and vertically.
- Lengths up to 500 feet or more.
T1 field tapes get their name from Accuracy Class 1 – the highest accuracy rating for steel measuring tapes according to federal specification GGG-T-106E. This means they are engineered and manufactured to very tight tolerances in order to provide reliable measurements time after time.
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What are T1 field tape measures used for?
T1 field tape measures have a variety of professional uses across multiple industries including:
- Surveying – T1 tapes are essential for boundary and topographic surveys to precisely measure distances between survey markers, buildings, land contours and other survey points.
- Construction – Builders, carpenters, electricians and other tradespeople rely on T1 tapes for laying out buildings, positioning walls, running conduit and more.
- Crime scene investigation – Investigators use T1 tapes to document crime scenes by carefully measuring rooms, bullet trajectories, blood spatter patterns and other important evidence.
- Accident reconstruction – Crash scenes require careful measurement of skid marks, debris fields, points of impact and more to analyze accident dynamics and determine causes.
- Civil engineering – From mapping infrastructure like roads and bridges to staking out channels, culverts and drainage, engineers depend on T1 field tapes.
- Military – T1 tapes see use in tactical planning, range finding, base layout, aircraft crash sites and other distance measurement needs.
The consistent precision of T1 field tape measures makes them indispensable for work that requires reliable, evidence-grade distance data. The tapes provide vital measurability for mapping, planning, inspection, estimating and documenting across many technical disciplines.
Key design features and specifications
T1 field tape measures include a number of important design elements and specifications that improve durability, accuracy and ease of use:
- Graduations – Measurement markings in feet, tenths and hundredths of a foot are printed along the full length of the tape blade on both sides.
- Accuracy – +/- 0.015 foot over the entire tape length based on federal Accuracy Class 1 standards.
- Tape material – Fiberglass coated with durable plastic, stainless steel or other stable materials that resist stretching or shrinkage from use.
- Temperature compensation – Special coating treatments help minimize measurement errors due to thermal expansion or contraction.
- Reinforced handles – Durable metal or heavy-duty plastic handgrips provide strength and prevent attached pull cords from slipping.
- End hooks – Built-in metal end hooks allow tapes to be anchored and kept tight for inclined or vertical measurements.
- Printed serial numbers – Unique serial numbers help identify each tape and track calibrations and maintenance.
Following strict manufacturing standards enables T1 tapes to deliver reliable measurements time and time again even after heavy field use. Careful tape handling and periodic calibrations help maintain accuracy.
How are T1 field tape measures calibrated and tested?
To ensure T1 field tapes meet Accuracy Class 1 tolerances, both manufacturing calibration and periodic recalibration are critical:
Manufacturing Calibration
- Tapes are tested end-to-end on precision calibration equipment.
- Graduation spacing is adjusted as needed to align with standards.
- Tension gauges confirm proper spring tension in wind-up tapes.
- Printing plates imprint precisely located measurement markings.
- Quality control checks verify tolerances across production runs.
Periodic Recalibration
- Recommend recalibrating T1 tapes at least annually depending on use.
- Calibration labs check tapes on certified equipment and make adjustments if measurements vary.
- Reports document corrections and confirmation of tolerances.
- Updated calibration stickers are applied with new expiration dates.
- Proper recalibration maintains accuracy and integrity of measurements.
Following a regular calibration schedule based on usage helps professionals maintain confidence in the accuracy of their T1 field tapes. Proper tape handling in the field also protects integrity – avoiding stepping on tapes, yanking or dropping from heights.
Top manufacturers and models
Some of the top manufacturers and models of T1 field tape measures on the market today include:
| Manufacturer | Model |
|---|---|
| Stanley | Lufkin Pro Series Pocket Tape |
| Komelon | Premier Fiberglass Power Tape |
| Fastcap | FatMax Open Reel Fiberglass Tape |
| Hultafors | Craftsman Fiberglass Survey Tape |
| Milwaukee | Inkzall Laminated Steel Tape |
These represent some of the most popular T1 field tape models used by surveying, construction and engineering professionals today. Key features buyers look for are durability, ease of use, legible markings and maintaining Accuracy Class 1 tolerances over time.
Stanley Lufkin Pro Series Pocket Tape
– Compact fiberglass pocket tape construction.
– Lengths of 25, 50, 75 and 100 ft.
– High contrast markings for readability.
– Reinforced handles with grip pads.
– Shoulder strap included for carrying.
– Meets Accuracy Class 1 standards.
Komelon Premier Fiberglass Power Tape
– Open reel fiberglass tape up to 500 ft lengths.
– Coated with HDP protection and temperature stabilization.
– Ergonomic handle with rubber grip.
– End hook for measuring inclines and declines.
– Meets federal Accuracy Class 1 specifications.
– 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Fastcap FatMax Open Reel Fiberglass Tape
– Extreme fiberglass tape strength and durability.
– Lengths from 16 ft to 165 ft.
– High-visibility v-groove frame for clear markings.
– Ribbon reinforced blades with polymer coating.
– Ergonomic hand crank and sturdy handle.
– Jobsite tough nylon carry case.
Hultafors Craftsman Fiberglass Survey Tape
– Open reel survey tape with compact gear shape.
– Lengths from 50m to 300m with metric graduations.
– Yellow coating with black markings for visibility.
– Reinforced tape end tabs for accessory connectors.
– Corrosion resistant aluminum reel.
– Craftsman lifetime warranty.
Milwaukee Inkzall Laminated Steel Tape
– 25 ft pocket steel tape with 0.1 ft markings.
– Proprietary lacquer coating helps prevent rust.
– High contrast graduated markings.
– Impact resistant 5-point reinforced frame.
– Inkzall marker for marking measurements.
– Compact design fits pocket or tool belt.
Conclusion
T1 field tape measures represent an essential tool for distance measurement across surveying, engineering, construction and investigation applications. Key characteristics like Accuracy Class 1 graduations, durable materials, reinforced frames and periodic recalibration help provide reliable, evidence-grade linear measurements. Leading manufacturers offer various models from pocket tapes to high-capacity open reel tapes to suit specific measurement needs. Proper use and handling helps maintain the integrity of measurements from T1 field tapes over their lengthy service lifetimes.