How do I attach my tags to my products?

In this article, see a few options for affixing RFID tags and Barcode labels to your products for product tracking

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Overview

There are two primary methods of affixing RFID tags to precast concrete units while wet, and several ways to affix barcode labels to units once dry.  RFID tags are usually embedded in the concrete and can be flush with the surface so that a human-readable label is visible, or completely submerged in the concrete if an architectural finish is desired.  Barcode labels are affixed to surface once the concrete is dry enough to allow an for adhesive bond.

Topics in this article include:

     Embedding RFID Tags
          Floating
          Attached to the Cage
          Attached to the Form
          Affixing RFID Tags Post Pour
    Attaching Barcode Labels
          Tags with adhesive

Embedding RFID Tags

Floating

Workers insert RFID tags into wet concrete after the Product has been poured. Making sure the anchors are securely embedded and the label faces the surface.

Tags can be pressed, anchors down, into the wet concrete until they are flush with the surface so that the human-readable label remains exposed, or embedded below the surface if an architectural finish is desired.

Attached to the Cage

Tags can be affixed to the form cage prior to pouring the concrete.  Tags can be wired, zip tied, or even hung using an attached hanger.  This method hids the RFID tag below the surface of the concrete and provides a smooth, architectural finish.

Attached to the Form

Tags can be purchased with a variety of posts, anchors, and hangers.  The example below is a tag that includes 1 hanger, 2 anchors (only 1 visible in photo), 2 posts with 2 ears.

Tags can be embedded at surface level by inserting the posts into drilled holes on the inside of the Form. When the concrete is poured, the tag's anchors will be firmly embedded in the concrete. When the Form is stripped, the Posts break off and the tag is visible on the surface of the product.

Affixing RFID Tags Post Pour

On occasion, a tag may need to be affixed to a product post-pour.  A section of concrete can be chipped out, the tag placed, and a patch applied around the tag, including the anchors.  Posts that would have been removed during stripping can then be clipped or knocked off, if desired.

Attaching Barcode Labels

Tags with adhesive

Weather resistant labels that will adhere to porous surfaces like concrete can be purchased from many different manufacturers, either preprinted, or on rolls and sheets that will allow you to design and print a label that includes information of your choosing, including the barcode.  Some examples are below.

ID Label is a good source for barcode labels that adhere to porous concrete.