Embossing Machines

Embossing Machines

The process of embossing creates a three-dimensional image on paper, leather, plastic, or other ductile material through the use of heat and pressure. Embossing machines use a (female) metal die, often made of brass, and a (male) counter die, which together actually stretch the material. Embossing of metal is sometimes referred to as repoussé or repoussage.

There are a number of machines available for different types of embossing. Embossing machines with large rollers can emboss any design onto leather, glass, paper, and plastic materials. Special indent marking dies for marking metal parts are also widely used to identify and mark motor vehicle components, tools, and other metal parts.

One of the most common uses of embossing machines is to create plastic cards such as credit cards. There are special plastic card printers that do just this, many with their own keyboards for easy use.