Imagine a driver going around a corner at night. Reflective traffic signs help a lot. Reflective sheeting is put on these signs to make them easier to see. RA1 sheeting gives road signs simple reflective features for quiet roads. RA2 sheeting is brighter, so signs on busy roads or important signs are easier to spot. Reflective traffic signs with RA2 sheeting help drivers notice key signs better. The type of sheeting changes how well signs guide people on the road.
OPTRAFFIC provides high-quality reflective traffic signs with RA1 and RA2 sheeting to ensure maximum visibility and safety. Our signs are designed to meet the needs of different road conditions, helping drivers stay safe and informed. Explore our range of reflective signage solutions today to enhance road safety and compliance.
RA1 vs RA2 Differences
Reflectivity and Visibility
RA1 and RA2 sheeting both help road signs stand out. But they do this at different levels. RA1 sheeting uses engineering grade retro-reflective materials. These materials give back some light. This makes them good for signs on quiet roads or where cars go slow. RA2 sheeting uses micro prismatic reflective sheeting. This type is much brighter and easier to see. It helps signs stand out on busy roads, especially at night or in bad weather.
Drivers can see signs with RA1 sheeting from up to 150 metres away at night. RA2 micro prismatic reflective sheeting lets drivers see signs from about 250 metres away. This extra distance gives drivers more time to notice and react to signs.
| Reflective Sheeting Type | Visibility Distance at Night |
|---|---|
| RA1 (Grade d'ingénierie) | Up to approximately 150 mètres |
| RA2 (Prismatique de haute intensité) | Up to approximately 250 mètres |
RA2 signs use micro prismatic reflective sheeting. This gives better light return and makes the signs easier to see. RA2 is the best choice for main roads, motorways, and places where signs must be very clear.
Material and Technology
RA1 and RA2 sheeting use different technology. RA1 sheeting uses engineering grade retro-reflective materials. These have glass beads that send light back to where it came from. This helps signs show up at night, but the light is not as strong as other types.
RA2 sheeting uses micro prismatic reflective sheeting. This has tiny prisms that reflect light better. The prisms send more light back to drivers, so the signs are much brighter. RA2 micro prismatic reflective sheeting also helps signs stand out in fog, pluie, or when it is dark.
RA2 signs resist dirt and glue damage better than RA1. The micro prismatic reflective sheeting keeps signs bright and clear for longer. This is why RA2 is used for important signs on busy roads.
Durabilité
Durability is important when choosing between RA1 and RA2 sheeting. RA1 sheeting lasts about 7 years outside. It is good for signs in quiet places with less bad weather. RA2 micro prismatic reflective sheeting lasts 10 à 12 années. The strong materials handle sun, pluie, and heat much better.
The table below shows how long each type lasts and how tough they are:
| Reflective Sheeting Class | Average Lifespan (Years) | Durability Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| RA1 | Approximately 7 | Engineering quality sheeting; moins robuste; suitable for less trafficked areas; meets highway sign standards but less resistant to weather and sunlight |
| RA2 | 10 à 12 | More durable microprismatic materials; withstands sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations better; maintains clarity and brightness longer; used for speed limit, avertissement, directional, and regulatory signs in various environments |
RA1 signs need to be replaced and fixed more often. RA2 micro prismatic reflective sheeting does not need as many repairs because it is stronger. Both types of signs should be cleaned and checked often to keep them working well.
Conseil: Clean reflective signs two times a year. Check for fading or damage. Fix problems quickly to keep signs easy to see and make them last longer. Looking after signs saves money over time.
The table below shows the main differences between RA1 and RA2 sheeting:
| Fonctionnalité | RA1 (Engineer Grade) | RA2 (Prismatique de haute intensité) |
|---|---|---|
| Durabilité | 3-5 années | 7-10 années |
| Typical Usage | Temporary or low-speed urban roads | Permanent signs on urban highways and regulatory signage |
| Maintenance Frequency | More frequent replacement and maintenance | Regular cleaning twice a year and inspections for fading or damage |
| Resistance to Environment | Less resistant to weather, saleté, and adhesive degradation | More resistant due to prismatic technology and stronger materials |
| Visibility Range | Up to ~150 metres | Up to ~250 metres |
RA2 signs with micro prismatic reflective sheeting give back more light, durer plus longtemps, and work better. This makes RA2 the best choice for signs on busy roads and in tough conditions.
Applications for Reflective Traffic Signs
RA1 Use Cases
RA1 reflective sheeting is used on signs in quiet places. Councils use RA1 for street name plates and signs in neighbourhoods. It is also used for lane markings. Many building sites pick RA1 for signs that warn people about dangers. RA1 is found on traffic cones, barricades, and posts. These materials help cars and people move safely through work areas and stop accidents.
- RA1 works well for:
- Local and neighbourhood road signs
- Lane markings and warning signs
- Building site signs
- Temporary traffic control items
RA1 signs help keep roads safe by showing lanes and dangers clearly. They are cheaper for signs that do not need to be very bright. Many councils use RA1 for “White on Red” et “Black on White” signes. These signs stay easy to see even after bad weather.
RA2 Use Cases
RA2 reflective sheeting is brighter and lasts longer. Councils and builders use RA2 for main roads and busy streets. RA2 is put on warning signs, speed limit signs, and rules signs. Its special technology makes sure signs can be seen day and night.
- RA2 is best for:
- Main roads and busy streets
- Speed limit and warning signs
- Rules and direction signs
- Places with lots of rain or fog
RA2 materials make roads safer where there is lots of traffic. The bright colours help signs stand out, Même par mauvais temps. This helps drivers see signs fast and stops more accidents.
Regulatory Compliance for Traffic Signs
UK rules say what kind of reflective materials must be used on road signs. The Traffic Signs Manual says all signs at road works on motorways and dual carriageways must use RA2 or a similar type. On roads without lights, RA1 or RA2 can be used, but RA2 is better for roads with lights unless the sign has its own light. These rules make sure signs are bright and last long enough for each road.
Note: Le Règlements sur les panneaux de circulation et instructions générales (Tsrgd) and standards like BS EN 12899-1:2007 and BS 8442 tell how to use reflective signs. Cleaning and checking signs often keeps them safe and following the rules.
Performance of Reflective Signs
Day and Night Visibility
Reflective signs are very important for road safety. In the daytime, both RA1 and RA2 help signs stand out. La nuit, micro prismatic reflective sheeting is very bright. Tiny prisms in the sheeting send car lights back to drivers. RA2 signs with this sheeting can be seen from far away. Drivers can see these signs from up to 250 metres away. RA1 signs use glass beads and are not as bright. These signs can only be seen from closer distances. Micro prismatic reflective sheeting works well in all weather. It is best for busy roads.
Résistance aux intempéries
Road signs must handle rain, brouillard, sun, and dirt. Micro prismatic reflective sheeting stands up to bad weather better than other types. RA2 reflective traffic signs stay bright and clear for many years. They do not fade quickly in the sun or rain. The layers in micro prismatic reflective sheeting stop scratches and chemicals. This means these signs need less cleaning and fixing. RA1 signs may lose their shine faster in harsh weather. Micro prismatic reflective sheeting keeps roads safe even when the weather is bad.
Cost and Value
Micro prismatic reflective sheeting costs more at first. But it saves money over time. RA2 signs last up to 15 années. RA1 signs last about 7 années. Fewer repairs and replacements mean you spend less each year. The table below shows the costs:
| Sheeting Type | Upfront Cost | Lifespan (années) | Annualised Cost (Cost ÷ Lifespan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RA1 (Engineer Grade) | £80 | 7 | £11.43/year |
| RA2 (Grade de diamant) | £140 | 15 | £9.33/year |
Micro prismatic reflective sheeting gives great performance and is easy to see. It is a smart choice for signs on busy roads. Road managers pick it because it is safe, dure longtemps, and saves money.
Choosing Reflective Sheeting for Traffic
Key Factors
Picking the right sheeting for traffic signs is important. You need to think about a few things before you choose.
- Location and Road Type: RA1 sheeting is good for quiet roads or signs used for a short time. RA2 sheeting is better for main roads, autoroutes, and places where cars go fast.
- Visibility Needs: RA2 reflective sheeting materials have microprismatic lenses. These lenses reflect more light than RA1. This makes signs brighter and easier to see from far away.
- Signage Lifespan: RA1 sheeting lasts about 3 à 5 années. RA2 sheeting lasts 7 à 10 années. This makes RA2 better for signs that stay up for a long time.
- Conformité: Signs that stay up must follow UK rules like BS EN 12899. RA2 sheeting usually meets these rules for brightness and strength.
- Budget: RA1 sheeting costs less at first. RA2 sheeting costs more but saves money later. This is because it lasts longer and does not need to be replaced as often.
- Conditions environnementales: Busy roads, intempéries, and fast cars need brighter and stronger reflective sheeting materials.
Conseil: Always pick the sheeting type that matches the road speed and what the sign is for. This helps keep drivers safe and follows the rules.
Decision Checklist
A simple checklist can help you pick the right reflective sheeting for traffic signs:
- Look at the road type and how fast cars go.
- Decide if the sign will be used for a short time or a long time.
- Check how far away drivers need to see the sign.
- Make sure the sheeting follows UK rules for reflective signs.
- Compare how long each sheeting type lasts and how much care it needs.
- Think about how much money you have now and in the future.
- Talk to suppliers to make sure you get the right reflective sheeting materials.
- Plan to check and clean signs often to keep them bright and safe.
Note: Using RA1 on main roads can make signs too hard to see, especially at night or when the weather is bad. Always pick the right sheeting for the road and traffic.
RA1 and RA2 reflective sheeting are used for different jobs. RA1 is good for local roads, car parks, and signs that are not very important. It gives a medium level of reflectivity and costs less money. RA2 uses prismatic technology, so it is brighter and lasts longer. This makes RA2 better for busy roads, Signes de règles, and building sites. Picking the right type helps keep people safe on the road. Always think about the weather, the rules, and how much care the signs need. Use the checklist to help you choose the best sheeting for your project.
FAQ
What is the main difference between RA1 and RA2 reflective sheeting?
RA1 has engineering grade materials with glass beads. RA2 uses micro prismatic technology instead. RA2 reflects more light than RA1. This means RA2 signs can be seen from further away. RA2 is best for busy roads. RA1 works better in quiet places.
Can RA1 sheeting be used for motorway signs?
UK rules say motorway signs must use RA2 or better. RA1 does not give enough visibility for fast or busy roads. RA2 helps drivers see reflective traffic signs from far away.
How long does RA2 reflective sheeting last outdoors?
RA2 sheeting lasts about 10 à 12 years outside. The micro prismatic layer protects against weather, sun, and dirt. This makes RA2 a good choice for signs that stay up for a long time.
Is RA2 reflective sheeting more expensive than RA1?
- RA2 costs more when you buy it.
- RA2 saves money later because it lasts longer and needs less replacing.
- Many councils pick RA2 because it is safer and gives better value.
Do both RA1 and RA2 meet UK road sign regulations?
Both RA1 and RA2 follow UK rules for some signs. RA2 is needed for many motorway and important signs. Always check the latest rules before picking reflective sheeting.
