1)  1095 spring steel is unquestionably the finest steel available for precision diameter tapes where thermal expansion and minimum stretch under normal operating tension ranges are a primary consideration.  Pi Tape has received spring steel tapes for recalibration service which were manufactured over 50 years ago and are still within our tolerance of 0.001”.  A light film coating of LPS3 oil is the only maintenance needed for these incredibly accurate instruments.

2)  Our 716 Stainless Steel, a specialty steel manufactured by Uddeholm, is utilized in more corrosive environments.  Although stainless steel is a softer material with similar thermal expansion qualities as spring steel, it is used effectively in a multitude of industrial applications.

3)  Our blue easy to read utilizes 1095 spring steel and is an extremely durable instrument, often utilized in low light environments or highly reflective conditions.

4)  The white easy to read is manufactured using 1095 spring steel or, on special request, 716 stainless steel.  These tapes are very popular and can also be used in low light applications.  This instrument relies on a coating for the surface of the tape and should not be exposed to paints, solvents or corrosive work environments.

Physical Properties of Steel - Pi Tape Corporation

THE RELEVANT CRITERIA REGARDING THERMAL QUALITIES OF STEEL

Comparing coefficient of thermal expansion

As profiled, the smaller coefficient of thermal expansion available with our materials makes a significant difference when working in variable temp environments.   

Pi Tape chooses to acid etch the majority of our products.  Our .010” thick material is acid etched with markings that are .001” to .002” deep.  This etch is more durable and does not rub off easily under heavy usage.