PVC / LX Tape

LX tape, electrical tape or insulation tape?

They are the same product. LX is the theatre and live-event name for the lighting department, and LX tape is what its crews call PVC electrical insulation tape.

Colours and specification

• Ten colours: black, blue, brown, green, grey, orange, pink, red, white and yellow.
• 19mm x 33m rolls, individually wrapped.
• Made to BS EN 60454-2, flame retardant and RoHS compliant.

The manufacturer lists it for insulating wires and cable joints, colour coding, bundling and low-voltage repairs. It isn't a waterproof seal: use a self-amalgamating tape where a connection must be fully waterproof.

What crews use LX tape for

• Colour bands on multicore tails, looms and fanouts so circuits can be matched at both ends.
• Insulating and finishing terminations.
• Quick ID on cable ends, dimmer patches and rack tails.

LX tape or gaffer tape?

PVC LX tape stretches, conforms tightly around a cable and insulates, so it's the right choice for electrical wraps and permanent colour coding. Cloth gaffer tape tears by hand and lifts cleanly, so it's better for temporary jobs on floors and cases.

Colour coding

Agree a colour scheme across the crew and keep spare rolls of every colour in the workbox. For marks on a dark stage, use fluorescent tape instead.

LX tape FAQ

What is LX tape?

LX tape is PVC electrical insulation tape. LX is the theatre and live-event name for the lighting department, and its crews use the tape to insulate and colour-code cables.

Is LX tape the same as electrical tape?

Yes. LX tape, electrical tape and insulation tape are names for the same PVC tape. Ours is made to BS EN 60454-2, flame retardant and RoHS compliant.

How big is a roll of LX tape?

Each roll is 19mm wide and 33m long, and comes individually wrapped.

What colours does LX tape come in?

Ten: black, blue, brown, green, grey, orange, pink, red, white and yellow. The manufacturer notes that the green can vary slightly in tone between batches.

Is LX tape waterproof?

No. Standard PVC tape is not intended to make a permanent waterproof seal. The manufacturer recommends a self-amalgamating or specialist waterproofing tape where a connection must be fully waterproof.

Should I use LX tape or gaffer tape?

Use LX tape to insulate and for lasting colour codes on cables. Use cloth gaffer tape for temporary jobs on floors and cases, as it tears by hand and lifts cleanly.

Where can I buy LX tape in the UK?

Order here, with next day delivery available, or collect from our shop at 60 Weir Road, London SW19 8UG.

Related

All stage tape.