When you’re pulling cable through conduit, small decisions can create big consequences. Friction adds force. Missed measurements add rework.
That’s why muletape has become a standard tool on utility installation jobsites – and why MULETAPE® is available at your local Vermeer dealership – your one-stop for HDD support.
What is muletape and why is it used in HDD work?
Muletape is a flat, woven polyester pulling and measuring tape used to install fiber optic, copper and coaxial cables in underground conduit. Unlike round pulling rope, it is designed specifically for conduit environments where friction, heat and measurement accuracy matter.
For HDD operations, it is commonly used to:
- Pull product through installed conduit
- Measure installed lengths accurately during the pull
- Help reduce friction and heat on longer or more complex runs
Because it’s flat, low‑profile and pre‑marked, MULETAPE moves easily through conduit and gives crews optimal control during the pull — especially when conditions aren’t perfect.
Why MULETAPE performs differently than rope
Not all pulling media behaves the same under load. The way MULETAPE is built directly impacts consistency and productivity on the job.
Low elongation for more controlled pulls
Engineered for low elongation, MULETAPE minimizes stretch during the pull. According to Chase Corporation, “rope stretches and can store energy,” while MULETAPE is designed to reduce that effect—helping crews maintain control and limit stored energy in the line.
Flat, woven design to manage friction and heat
The flat profile spreads load across a wider surface area. Combined with built‑in lubrication, this design helps lower friction and distribute heat as cable moves through the conduit, which is especially useful on longer runs or tighter bends.
Built‑in measurement to reduce guesswork
MULETAPE is printed with sequential footage or meter markings. That means crews can track progress during the pull, verify installed length and reduce the chance of over‑ or under‑pulling cable.
MULETAPE FAQs
How do I choose the right muletape for my job?
Choosing the right muletape isn’t just about selecting the highest strength available. The right choice depends on your installation environment.
Key factors to consider include:
- Conduit material and condition
- Number and severity of bends
- Whether duct is lubricated
- Expected pulling distance and cable weight
- Abrasion risk or debris in conduit
Using the right pulling tape helps balance performance and cost. Your Vermeer dealer can help guide your selection based on how and where you’re working — not just what product you’re pulling back.
Why does planning the entire pull matter?
Pulling force increases with distance, friction and bends. Even with MULETAPE, understanding the full pull path helps avoid surprises once the job is underway.
Before starting a pull, it’s important to:
- Review conduit layout and total bend angles
- Estimate pulling force based on cable weight and friction
- Confirm knot or splice methods
- Select MULETAPE with enough margin for real‑world conditions
This planning approach helps reduce mid‑pull interruptions and rework.
Is muletape only about strengthening the pull?
No. While strength matters, muletape is just as much about control and consistency. Low elongation, reduced friction and accurate footage markings all contribute to smoother, more predictable pulls — especially on utility installations where conditions vary from bore to bore.
Why buy MULETAPE through my Vermeer dealer instead of sourcing it elsewhere?
Your local Vermeer dealer is equipped to support the entire HDD jobsite. As a single source for drilling equipment, parts, tooling and fluid solutions, dealers can help guide selections that align with your specific jobsite conditions while also offering insight into additional products and services that support underground utility work from start to finish.
Get MULETAPE from your Vermeer dealer
Muletape isn’t just another consumable — it’s a purpose‑built pulling solution designed for underground conduit installations. When you pair the right MULETAPE with thoughtful planning and local dealer support, pulls become more predictable and efficient.
Talk with your Vermeer dealer about adding MULETAPE to your next HDD parts order.
MULETAPE manufactured by Chase Corporation. Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation.
Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or componentsspecific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications. Vermeer, the Vermeer logo and Equipped to Do More are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. MULETAPE is a trademark of Neptco Incorporated.
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