In industrial environments, proper identification of cables, pipes, and valves is essential for safety and efficient maintenance. A well-tagged facility means faster fault finding, safer isolation procedures, easier compliance audits, and less downtime. Whether you're an electrician wiring a new switchroom, a plumber labelling a plant room, or a maintenance team keeping an ageing facility up to standard, the right tags make all the difference.
At RBZ 3D, we laser engrave custom cable tags and valve tags from durable materials like traffolyte, stainless steel, and aluminium — shipped Australia-wide. This guide covers everything you need to know about selecting, specifying, and ordering the right tags for your project.
Cable Tags
Cable tags are small, durable labels attached to cables to identify their purpose, destination, or circuit number. They're a core part of electrical documentation and are referenced throughout AS/NZS 3000 and AS/NZS 3439. In commercial and industrial settings, properly tagged cables aren't just good practice — they're often a compliance requirement.
When Are Cable Tags Required?
Cable tags are typically required in the following scenarios:
- Switchboard cable entries and exits — Every cable entering or leaving a switchboard should be tagged with its circuit reference and destination.
- Distribution boards — Cables feeding sub-boards should be tagged at both ends.
- Control panels — Cables connecting PLCs, relays, and field devices need clear identification.
- Data and comms racks — Structured cabling systems rely on tagging for network management.
- Underground and concealed runs — Cables that can't be visually traced need tags at every accessible point.
Cable Tag Materials
The material you choose depends on the environment and the permanence required:
- Traffolyte — The most common choice for indoor electrical work. Available in multiple colour combinations (white on black, white on red, black on yellow, etc.). Excellent UV and chemical resistance. Laser engraved text won't fade or rub off.
- Stainless Steel — Best for harsh environments: outdoor installations, chemical plants, food processing, and marine applications. Maximum durability and corrosion resistance.
- Aluminium — Good for general outdoor use. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective for large quantities.
- Brass — Traditional choice for high-end or heritage applications. Provides a professional appearance and long lifespan.
Standard Cable Tag Sizes
While we can produce any custom size, these are the most commonly ordered dimensions:
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 65mm x 17mm | Most common — fits standard cable and conduit runs |
| 80mm x 20mm | Larger text, easier to read at a distance |
| 90mm x 32mm | Maximum information — multiple lines of text, circuit numbers, and destinations |
| 50mm x 12mm | Compact — for tight spaces and smaller cables |
What to Include on a Cable Tag
A good cable tag should include enough information for someone unfamiliar with the installation to identify the cable. At minimum:
- Circuit reference — e.g., "CB12", "MSB-DB3"
- Destination — e.g., "TO LEVEL 2 DB", "CHILLER PLANT ROOM"
- Cable size (optional) — e.g., "4C+E 6mm²"
For critical infrastructure, you might also include voltage, cable type, or installation date.
Mounting Options
Cable tags can be attached using:
- Cable ties — Most common. We can add mounting holes to accommodate standard cable ties.
- Stainless steel wire — For high-temperature or outdoor environments where plastic ties may degrade.
- Adhesive backing — For flat surfaces where drilling isn't practical.
- Screw mounting — For permanent installations on cable trays or trunking.
Valve Tags
Valve tags identify valves in piping systems for safe isolation and maintenance planning. They're essential in any facility with multiple water, gas, or process lines — from commercial buildings to mining operations and water treatment plants.
Proper valve identification prevents dangerous mistakes during isolation procedures. If a maintenance worker closes the wrong valve because tags are missing, faded, or incorrect, the consequences can range from equipment damage to serious injury.
Valve Tag Colour Standards
Australian industry commonly uses colour coding to identify different piping systems at a glance:
| Colour | System |
|---|---|
| Green | Water / cooling |
| Blue | Compressed air |
| Red | Fire services |
| Yellow | Gas (natural gas, LPG) |
| Orange | Hydraulic oil |
| Brown | Combustible liquids |
| Silver/Grey | Steam |
| Black | Drainage / waste |
We can produce valve tags in matching traffolyte colours so the tag colour aligns with the pipe marking standard for your facility.
What to Include on a Valve Tag
A useful valve tag typically includes:
- Valve number — e.g., "V-101", "CW-003"
- System — e.g., "CHILLED WATER", "FIRE MAIN"
- Location (optional) — e.g., "PLANT ROOM B"
- Normal position (optional) — "N/O" (normally open) or "N/C" (normally closed)
Valve Tag Shapes and Sizes
Valve tags are commonly available in:
- Round — 40mm, 50mm, or 65mm diameter. The classic choice, easy to attach with wire.
- Rectangular — For more text. Common sizes are 75mm x 40mm or 90mm x 50mm.
- Octagonal or hexagonal — Used in some industries to differentiate valve tags from other signage at a glance.
Designing Custom Tags Online
At RBZ 3D, you can design cable tags and valve tags online with instant pricing and Australia-wide delivery. Our label designer lets you:
- Choose your material and colour combination
- Enter exact dimensions or pick a standard size
- Add multiple lines of text with font control
- Include mounting holes positioned exactly where you need them
- See a realistic preview before ordering
- Get instant pricing that updates as you adjust your design
For bulk orders — such as a full set of valve tags for a new facility or replacement cable tags for a switchroom upgrade — get in touch for trade pricing.
Ordering Tips
- Order spares — Tags get lost or damaged during installation. Adding 10–15% extra costs very little and saves you a second order.
- Use consistent formatting — Decide on a naming convention before you start (e.g., "CB" for circuit breakers, "V" for valves) and stick to it across the entire facility.
- Consider future expansion — Leave gaps in your numbering sequence so new circuits or valves can be added without renumbering.
- Double-check spelling — Engraved tags are permanent. Measure twice, order once.