Abstract: A machine for wrapping tape on a pipe including an improved means of controlling the tension on the tape, the machine having a bracket supported for rotation around the pipe and axial advancement along the pipe, a spindle rotatably supported to the bracket, tape to be wrapped about the pipe being placed in the form of a roll on the spindle, a brake means affixed to the spindle, a brake shoe supported to the bracket arranged to contact the brake member to impart variable frictional force thereagainst, a follower arm having the inner end pivotally supported to the bracket and the outer end in engagement with the external periphery of the roll of tape mounted on the spindle, and means actuated by the follower arm of increasing the frictional contact of the brake shoe with the brake member in proportion to the diameter of the roll of tape on the spindle.