Black 3M Reflective Tape - 3M Scotchlite 580-85E
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Product Description
3M™ Scotchlite™ 580-85E Black Reflective Tape is a premium black self-adhesive reflective tape that reflects bright white when illuminated by headlights, torches or other direct light sources. It is ideal for adding discreet low-light visibility to suitable hard surfaces while keeping a clean black appearance in normal daylight.
This black reflective tape is useful for bicycles, helmets, posts, equipment, cases, signs, tools and other items where you want improved night-time visibility without using a bright coloured tape. The self-adhesive backing allows quick peel-and-stick application to suitable clean, dry and smooth surfaces.
Important: This product is designed for general visibility marking. It is not a substitute for ECE104 vehicle conspicuity tape where regulated reflective tape is required.
Key Features
- Black in normal light with bright white reflection when illuminated
- Discreet reflective finish for low-profile visibility marking
- Self-adhesive backing, can be cut to size
- Suitable for bicycles, helmets, equipment, posts, cases and signs
- Widths from 10mm to 100mm, lengths from 0.5 to 22.5 metres
- Not suitable for clothing, flexible fabrics or washable garments
3M™ and Scotchlite™ are trademarks of 3M Company. Flashback Tape is an independent reseller and is not affiliated with or endorsed by 3M Company.
Uses & suitable surfaces
3M™ Scotchlite™ 580-85E Black Reflective Tape is suitable for a wide range of general visibility marking tasks where a discreet black reflective tape is preferred.
- Bicycles and bike frames
- Cycle helmets and hard helmets, subject to testing
- Cases, toolboxes and equipment
- Posts, gates and barriers
- Signs and hard surfaces
- Outdoor equipment and accessories
- Low-profile safety marking
- General night-time visibility marking
- Hard vehicle surfaces where regulated tape is not required
Suitable surfaces: many clean, dry, smooth and rigid surfaces, including metal, painted metal, plastic, glass, UPVC, smooth painted surfaces and general hard surfaces. Adhesion can vary depending on surface condition, texture, temperature, exposure and application pressure. Always test first if applying to painted, coated, delicate, textured or high-value surfaces.
Product specifications
Product: 3M™ Scotchlite™ 580-85E Black Reflective Tape
Colour: Black
Reflection Colour: Bright white when illuminated
Brand: 3M™
Backing: Self-adhesive
Widths: 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 100mm
Lengths: 0.5m to 22.5m
Use: General visibility marking and reflective identification
Application: Suitable clean, dry, smooth and rigid surfaces
Not Suitable For: Clothing, flexible fabrics, washable garments or regulated ECE104 vehicle marking applications
How to apply
- Make sure the surface is clean, dry and free from dust, grease, wax, polish or loose material.
- Cut the reflective tape to the required length, size or shape.
- Peel away the backing liner.
- Position carefully before pressing down.
- Apply firm, even pressure across the full surface of the tape.
- Pay special attention to edges and corners to help improve adhesion.
- Allow time for the adhesive to bond before heavy exposure, washing or cleaning.
Certification & product guidance
Vehicle use: This tape is suitable for general visibility marking, but it is not a substitute for regulated ECE104 reflective tape. For HGVs over 7.5 tonnes and trailers over 3.5 tonnes where regulated conspicuity marking is required, use approved ECE104 Reflective Tape instead.
If applying to vehicle paintwork, always test a small hidden area first. Removal may damage weak, old, repaired, poorly bonded or already deteriorating paintwork.
This tape is designed for general reflective visibility marking on suitable rigid surfaces. It is not intended for clothing, flexible fabrics, PPE, regulated vehicle conspicuity marking, safety-critical use where a different certified product is required, or any application where material failure could create a safety risk. The buyer or installer is responsible for checking that the tape is suitable for their specific use and any relevant regulations or project requirements.
Adhesion, reflectivity and outdoor performance depend on correct installation, surface preparation, exposure, cleaning methods, weathering and general maintenance. Always test suitability before full application.
We take no responsibility for damage caused during removal, incorrect application or use on unsuitable surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
Does this black tape really reflect?
Yes. The tape appears black in normal light but reflects bright white when illuminated by headlights, torches or other direct light sources.
Is this suitable for bicycles?
Yes, it can be used on suitable clean, dry and smooth bicycle surfaces. Always test first, especially on delicate finishes, carbon frames, painted parts or high-value surfaces.
Can I use it on clothing?
No. This tape is not suitable for clothing, flexible fabrics, washable garments or PPE. For garments, use a sew-on or fabric-specific reflective product.
Can I cut it to size?
Yes, the tape can be cut to the required length or shape using scissors or a sharp knife.
How do I remove it?
Warm gently with a hairdryer or heat gun, peel slowly at a low angle and clean any remaining adhesive with a suitable adhesive remover. Always test first, as removal may damage some surfaces.