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Pull Tape vs. Pulling Rope: What’s Safer, Cheaper & Easier?

Written by Chase Corp Editor | Sep 10, 2025 1:34:35 AM

Low-elongation pull tape (Muletape®) reduces snap-back risk, friction, and rework—often delivering faster installs and lower total cost than rope, especially on long routes and tight bends. 

Pull Tape vs. Pulling Rope: What’s Safer, Cheaper & Easier?

If you’re still deciding between pull tape and rope, consider what matters most on site: safety,  speed, and total installed cost. Pull tape—especially the original Muletape®—was engineered for conduit pulls: flat, low-elongation, pre-lubricated, footage-marked, splice-free. That combination reduces snap-back risk, lowers force, and speeds fishing and pulling compared to rope.

Safety First — Low-Elongation vs. Stretch

  •  Rope stretches and can store energy, leading to dangerous snap-back.
  • Muletape® is low-elongation, minimizing stored energy and reducing snap-back risk to crews and equipment.

Force, Friction & Duct Burn

  • Muletape’s flat profile + integrated silicone (~3%) lower friction and distribute heat, helping prevent duct burn.
  • Add Muleglide™ for long runs and tight bends to reduce force even further.

Field data: In a controlled route with multiple bends, Muleglide™ delivered ~2× faster pulls, ~50% less force, and ~50% less lubricant than a water-based product.

Read the case results: [Case Study: Field Test Comparisons of Cable Pulling Lubricants]


Speed & Productivity Gain

  •   Blows/fishes faster: Flat, lightweight tape moves easily with standard mice.

  • Footage markings: Track as you go; avoid over- or under-pulling.

  • Splice-free lengths: Fewer interruptions and mid-pull failures.

Total Cost (Not Just Price per Reel)

Contractors report savings from:

  • Reduced labor time (fewer restarts, faster pulls)
  • Less lube (silicone efficiency + Muleglide™ assist)
  • Fewer failures/rework (splice-free lengths, low-elongation safety)
  • Less damage to cable jackets and duct

When Rope Still Shows Up (and Why Tape Wins Anyway)

Rope remains common out of habit or availability. But for underground conduit, engineered pull tape nearly always outperforms on safety, force, and install speed—especially as routes get longer and more complex. 

FAQ'S

Q1. Can pull tape be blown or vacuumed?
Yes—Muletape® blows or vacuums fast with standard mice.

Q2. Is external lube still helpful with pull tape?
Yes. Muleglide™ pairs perfectly with Muletape® for long runs, tight bends, or rough 
conduit.

Q3. How do I choose break strength?
Use the [Muletape® Selection Guide]—match route, cable, and conduit.

Q4. Will pull tape reduce snap-back risk vs rope?
Muletape’s low-elongation design reduces stored energy—safer than high-stretch rope.

Q5. Does tape help with duct burn?
Yes—the flat profile + silicone help lower COF and spread heat vs. round rope.

Q6. Reuse policy?
Treat pull tape as single-use for safety

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