Aluminum Nameplates

Aluminum Nameplates

Aluminum plates are unique among other nameplate materials like brass, copper and gold in that they are not very vulnerable to sustained exposure to extreme weather, oxidation, trauma, UV rays or other damaging forces. For this reason, they are often used outdoors and on machinery that is likely to be subject to sustained inhospitable weather conditions, abrasion and impact. They can also be used as indoor signage and labeling, though they are often painted or coated to enhance their appearance. They can be attached to surfaces with fasteners or adhesive. Because many adhesives are vulnerable to variable temperatures and weather conditions, they are more frequently used to fasten nameplates indoors than outdoors. Consumer products manufacturers, office suppliers, automotive manufacturers and many other operations deal in and supply aluminum nameplates.

Aluminum nameplates are available in many shapes and sizes, and a variety of metalworking processes are used to make them. All aluminum nameplates must be cut from aluminum stock; cutting, machining and pressing are essential parts of the aluminum nameplate fabrication process. Once an aluminum nameplate has been cut and shaped to the right specifications, it can be subject to more shaping processes like bending, stamping, punching and pressing. There are many ways in which words and symbols can be imparted onto a newly-shaped aluminum nameplate. The least expensive and least involved method of nameplate labeling is ink labeling. This can be done with precise machinery in a shop, though blank aluminum nameplates are sometimes sold in office supply stores, and they can be labeled by the end user. More expensive, permanent physical labeling processes like stamping, etching and engraving can give an aluminum nameplate a more professional look and are likely to outlast ink labeling. Depending on which labeling method is chosen, an aluminum nameplate can be subject to surface treatments to increase the nameplate's resistance to heat and corrosion. Anodization is one method; when applied to plates after they have been stamped with letters, the plate can be expected to last much longer than an untreated plate.

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