Pipe markers are either attached onto a pipe with an adhesive or strapped around the pipe mechanically. These two basic marker types are as described follows:

Adhesive Pipe Markers. Adhesive markers are the cheapest to purchase or print on-site. Cleaning, though, is 9/10's of the battle! Sticking a pipe marker on to a dirty or rusted pipe is like trying to paint a dirty gutter — it simply won't work. In this situation, many plants use one of the mechanically-applied pipe marker systems.But, when adhesive markers are used, we recommend Surface Prep 77, which was designed just for this purpose. Surface Prep is free of halogens and is a non-toxic, water-based cleaner.

Mechanically-Applied Markers. These include Snap-On, Strap-On and Wrap-Around markers. All of these pipe marking systems eliminate the step of cleaning the pipe. Snap-On Pipe markers can be installed two to three times faster than adhesive pipe markers. This may translate into a savings of $1.00 to $5.00 per pipe marker. Plus, Snap-On pipe markers can be disassembled and reattached, should your pipes be re-insulated. It is not possible to reuse adhesive pipe markers.

There are several differences, though, in these three types of mechanically applied markers.

Both Snap-On and Wrap-Around markers are pre-coiled and wrap around the pipe. Snap-On's, however, are made out of thicker material and have a greater "hugging power" than Wrap-Arounds. Both the Snap-On or Wrap-Around pipe markers should include an adhesive strip. This strip allows you to fasten the marker to itself, thereby tightening the marker to the pipe. Pre-coiled markers can lose a bit of their tension, even during shipment. The problem is especially aggravating on vertical pipe runs. The adhesive strip can solve the problem. Generally, pipes up to 8" OD are identified with Snap-Ons. In certain situations, however, certain users have required a Snap-On marker for pipes having a 20" outside diameter.

Strap-on markers are used for pipes greater than 8" in diameter and are attached to the pipe with ties, wire, springs or one-lock strapping.

Unfortunately, adhesive markers are not always suitable for larger pipes. As the pipe marker and the pipe itself get larger, it is hard not only to line the marker up, but almost impossible to reposition the marker. Invariably, you will find that a marker is not on straight; trying to adjust its placement after you have stuck it down can frustrate even the most patient of workers. For this reason, we often recommend a mechanically-applied marker for larger pipes.