Nail tag
Industrial & harsh environment
What is it?
A nail tag is an RFID transponder encapsulated in a cylindrical housing (typically ABS, nylon, or glass-filled polymer) shaped like a large nail or dowel. It is designed to be driven or pressed into a drilled hole in wood, concrete, or composite materials. Nail tags are widely used for tree tracking, timber management, utility pole identification, and railway sleeper monitoring.
How it works
The RFID transponder is sealed inside a cylindrical housing, typically 15–30 mm in diameter and 20–50 mm long. The housing is inserted into a pre-drilled hole and sits flush with or slightly below the surface. The robust encapsulation protects against moisture, UV, insects, and mechanical impacts. LF nail tags are preferred for applications where the tag is fully embedded in wood (LF signals penetrate organic materials better).
Use cases
- Forestry and tree tracking
- Utility pole identification
- Railway sleeper (tie) management
- Timber and lumber tracking
- Pallet identification
- Vineyard management
Pros
- Extremely long lifespan (20+ years outdoor)
- Tamper-resistant – embedded in material
- Weather, UV, and insect resistant
- Compact and unobtrusive when installed
- Low frequency versions work well in organic materials
Cons
- Requires a drilled hole for installation
- Short read range (especially LF)
- Cannot be easily transferred or removed
- Higher cost than labels or inlays
Specifications
| Power type | Passive – powered by reader signal |
|---|---|
| Frequency | LF (125/134.2 kHz) or UHF (860–960 MHz) |
| Read range | LF: up to 15 cm; UHF: 1–5 m |
| Lifespan | 20+ years |
| Price range | $1–$8 per unit |
| Environmental rating | IP68; -40°C to +85°C; UV and chemical resistant |