6 Industrial Nameplates & Labels Your Business Needs

Posted on: December 5th, 2021 by | No Comments

industrial nameplates, warning labels, asset tags, serial plates, control panels

 

Running a successful business involves a lot of details, and some important ones often get overlooked. If you’re in charge of operations, promotion, or manufacturing, you probably have a lot of decisions to make and too many options to count. Nameplates/Labels may not be high on your list of priorities, but they should be.

If your business involves any type of manufactured goods, machinery, electronics, or industrial equipment, find out how U.S. Nameplate Company can help your business. From inventory management to safety and efficiency, we’ll explain why these are the six nameplates/labels your business needs.

 

Serial Plates

Serial plates contain valuable information about your manufactured products including your company name, the model number and serial number, the date the product was made, and information regarding the batch the product was made with.  Serial plates are attached to the products and the information is recorded before products are shipped off to be sold. This helps your company, your retailers, and your consumers easily communicate and track important information about each product.

Many companies manufacture similar products with just slight differences. If there are any issues with a product, consumers are expected to call the hotline number printed on serial plates. Having this information on serial plates helps consumers identify the specific model number and serial number for the particular product so that your representatives in customer service can quickly locate and provide troubleshooting information to the consumer.

Serial plates also help identify a product’s warranty information. From the terms to the lifespan and status of the warranty, serial numbers and model numbers on serial plates are able to easily provide warranty specifics when a consumer calls in for replacement, repair, or return.

At the end of the day, everything comes down to the bottom line – sales.  With serial plates, you are able to track how many products were sold, at which dealers/locations/divisions they were sold, and which products had the highest number of sales.

 

Safety Labels / Warning Labels

To keep things running smoothly, it is important to keep both equipment and employees safe in what can be a dangerous environment. With the help of safety labels, companies are able to warn and inform employees about possible workplace dangers, including exposures to chemicals, loud noises, flying debris, and many other environmental dangers.

Warning labels are also necessary for dangerous equipment that can pose an injury to the operators, such as heavy equipment, electronics and machinery with high voltage. With the help of safety and warning labels, companies are able to lower the risk of injury and increase efficiency and production.

 

Control Panels and Graphic Overlays

Your equipment, machinery, or electronic devices have switches, buttons, or other means of controlling the system. Control panels and graphic overlays help ensure proper operating procedure by clearly labeling controls on complex machinery and equipment.

Control panels, graphic overlays, and deadfront graphics are just some of the different types of protective coverings you may need, depending on the physical needs of the specific device or equipment. Each of these are specially designed to correlate with the look, feel, and function of the specific application.

Control panels and graphic overlays can be placed on a variety of equipment, including industrial machinery, vending machines, sound systems, medical equipment, appliances, telecommunication devices, and many more. Any equipment with keypads, switches, or any other controllers need to have identification to keep the operator safe and the equipment from malfunctioning.

 

Property and Asset Tags

Whatever your industry, your business likely has physical assets that are important to keep track of for your own inventory and accounting purposes. Property and asset tags are used to more easily track and monitor those assets.

For moveable assets, tags help to keep track of where equipment is in each step of its transportation. This can also help with theft prevention since these products can change hands often and are at a greater risk of being stolen or misplaced. The asset tag contains your company identification and specific tracking information, so it is much easier to get products returned to the proper place.

Though fixed assets don’t typically change locations, it is still important to keep track of these for inventory audits. Property tags help you with inventory control and give you the ability to easily calculate the value of each asset over its life cycle.

Furthermore, asset tags with sequential numbering or barcodes can help track maintenance and repairs. Scanning a tag can quickly direct a user to a database of repair instructions or maintenance schedules.

 

Company Identification Plates

Branding is an important part of any business, in order to keep your company top of mind for consumers. Identification plates and products can contain your company name, logo, address and any other important information about your company.

Whether it is through the use of a building sign, industrial decal, or product label, identification products are long-lasting branding materials to promote your company and your products.

 

Data Rating Plates / Specification Plates

Data rating and specification plates document the different limitations of industrial equipment for several industries, such as construction, mining, and manufacturing. Common applications for data rating and specification plates are motors, pumps, fans, heating equipment, and lighting fixtures.

These plates help operators understand a product’s performance specifications to help ensure proper use and safety for both the operator and the equipment. Specification plates can display information about weight limits, temperature ranges, lifting capacities, electrical hookup information, and more.

 

How U.S. Nameplate Co. Can Help

With 70 years of experience in the industry, U.S. Nameplate Company has become the supplier of choice for over 3000 Original Equipment Manufacturers. We’ve manufactured identification products across multiple industries, including construction, mining, farming, transportation, medical, utilities and military.

We are also an ISO certified facility and a UL approved label supplier, so you can be sure your nameplates will meet industry standards.  Our knowledgeable and experienced staff is happy to help provide solutions to meet any need specific to your industry.

Everything that we do is custom designed and we offer a variety of options for materials, thickness, finishes, attachment methods, and fabrication to meet your exact specifications. All of our products are built to withstand harsh environments and last for years so that your company’s brand and products are represented with professional, high quality nameplates.

 

Trust the staff at U.S. Nameplate Company for all of your industrial identification needs. Request a free quote or contact us today for more information.

Posted in Control Panels, Data Rating Plates, Deadfront Graphics, Graphic Overlays, Identification Plates, Industrial Decals, Nameplates, Property and Asset Tags, Safety Labels, Serial Plates, Signs | No Comments »

Four Reasons to Choose Custom Metalphoto® Nameplates for Permanent Identification

Posted on: October 4th, 2021 by | No Comments

durable safety tags

Durable. Impenetrable. Rugged. Indestructible.

At U.S. Nameplate Company, we design and manufacture all of our products to withstand the harshest conditions imaginable. The industries we serve—from aerospace to the military to mining—count on us to create permanent identification through our custom metal nameplates.

We manufacture photosensitive, anodized aluminum nameplates—called Metalphoto®—that have been specified by governmental, military, and industrial Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) for more than 65 years. We’re proud of this long and stellar reputation.

Using Metalphoto, we can produce a wide variety of custom long-lasting labels, nameplates, signs, and control panels. We strongly recommend Metalphoto nameplates for the following four reasons:

 

Built to Last

Freezing weather, moisture, chemical and fungal exposure, high altitudes, scorching temperatures . . . name a damaging condition and our custom Metalphoto nameplates have and will outlast them all. How? Unsealed aluminum is quite porous. We create a sub-surface image—much like a black and white photograph—that is then sealed inside the anodized aluminum plate. This anodic layer seals out even the harshest environmental conditions, making it an ideal identification plate for the military and government.

 

Custom Designed for You

You’re in charge of your design and you’re spoiled for choice. At U.S. Nameplate Co., we’re a one-stop shop. We design and manufacture all of your identification products under one roof. Our Metalphoto process can be used for your panels, asset tags, data-rating plates, labels, signs, nameplates, serial plates, and other needs. We offer varying metal thicknesses and handle jobs of nearly any size. And the Metalphoto process supports a wide variety of images and data, including barcodes, symbology, and brands. Clear and easy-to-read information reduces errors and accidents and saves time.

 

Attention to Detail

So precise are the markings of our Metalphoto process, that we can photo-image even the smallest of surfaces in minute detail. The resulting high resolution image is easy to read and scan. With Metalphoto, we can also offer you security printing, including micro text and watermarks. It’s another reason Metalphoto nameplates are the perfect solution for industries like the military that rely on strict standards and specifications.

 

Tested and True

Boeing, NASA, U.S. Army, Lockheed Martin, and Honeywell are just a few of the OEM’s who specify Metalphoto products for their industries. Why? Since 1950, they have trusted the unique features, durability, and proven performance of Metalphoto. At U.S. Nameplate Co., we’re honored to manufacture rugged products and to partner with these industries.

 

Since 1946, we’ve been the supplier of choice to more than 3,000 OEM’s. At U.S. Nameplate Company, quality matters. In all we do, we’re customer driven. We’re proud to be an ISO certified facility and UL approved label supplier.

Contact us today to see how we can provide custom Metalphoto solutions for your business.

 

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Quick Reference Guide–Techniques & Design Considerations for Metal Components

Posted on: September 24th, 2021 by | No Comments

Metal nameplates and components are as valuable as the product they’re attached to, which means the design phase in creating them is a critical process. There are specific considerations that should be made before moving forward with a design, so taking time to weigh the implication of your particular application carefully will lead you toward a safe and great looking nameplate or component.

 

Who will lay eyes on it?

Metal components such as emblems can act as an eye-catching accent on products such as vehicles; however, when chosen hastily they can easily become an eyesore. Creating a badge for your product that complies with company brand standards not only maintains an integrated look but conveys an easily identifiable message whether it’s for the safety of the user or simple aesthetic pleasure. Consider the following when creating your next component or nameplate:

 

  • When building brand awareness and drawing attention to your product, using metal components adds a sleek, stunning, high-end aesthetic that draws more attention to it than a blandly designed component. Simply stated, metal nameplates, labels, and components have a significant impact on how your product is viewed are representative of your brand.
  • U.S. Nameplate Co. has devised a way to simplify the process to assist customers in selecting the correct material for their nameplates and labels based on industry, environment, and application. We have a staff of technical professionals, engineers, and graphic artists with experience and are more than capable and willing to assist companies of all industries in the design, specification, and ordering of custom nameplates.

 

Communicate Your Requirements

Specific applications require a reliable performance standard which is expected within the nameplate industry, so don’t hesitate to communicate any requirements and tolerances you may have. Consider the conditions your label or nameplate will face; are any of the following likely to occur?

  • Will the nameplate or label be outside? If yes, for how long? 1-3 years, 3-5 years, 20 years or more?
  • Will it be prone to scratching, rubbing, scraping, or scouring? Nameplates in these situations require a resistance to abrasion—measured in cycles on a tabor abrader (500, 1,000, 4,000, 7,000+).
  • Is the label likely to be close to a heat source such as an engine, pump, generator, furnace, etc.? Such applications commonly require the label to be heat resistant in excess of 1,200ºF.
  • Geographically, where will the product be used? Resistance to a salty solution will add life to the label or nameplate when deployed on the coasts or areas where snow removal is common.
  • What is the probability the nameplate or label will come into contact with harmful or corrosive liquids and chemicals? Resistance to chemicals—such as Skydrol, diesel fuel, hydraulic fluid, and MEK; measured in hours before degradation.

 

U.S. Nameplate Co. offers an extensive list of products and materials from flexibles like polycarbonate and vinyl to metals like aluminum, brass, Metalphoto, and stainless steel which offer a wide range of durability to meet your product specifications.

 

What will it say?

To effectively communicate information, a nameplate needs to be optimally-legible. It’s important to know exactly what the nameplate is intended to communicate so the following can be addressed.

  • Know what data your nameplate or label needs to hold, so you get an idea of how large it needs to be.
  • Does your nameplate have to follow OSHA, ANSI, ISO, or perhaps other standards?
  • Will the date be the same on every nameplate or will it be serialized?
  • Will the product include barcodes or other machine-readable (AIDC) marks?
  • Do you need other graphic features like micro-text for anti-counterfeit features or high-resolution maintenance schematics?
  • Ensure that the material your supplier recommends is certified to any commercial or military specification you need to meet.

 

 

Consider the Physical Attributes

Focus in on the specifics. Think about the size, specifically, thickness, height, and width. Equally important are attributes such as sheen and pattern, and even the methods of attachment. Choose wisely by weighing the following.

Thickness

Thinner foil labels (.003” and .005” thick) will adhere to curved surfaces or sit inside recessed areas of your part. This feature affects the location a label can be used and even the amount of abrasion it must withstand.

Size

Does your application require the nameplate to fit in incredibly small spaces or be easily seen from afar? Different materials lend themselves to performing well at specific sizes such as Metalphoto, which is available as small as .25” x .25” and as large as 24” x 40”.

Attachment

The surface type and environment are the major determining factors in which method of attachment can be utilized. Think about the texture, material, and elements the nameplate will be exposed to.

 

Enlist the Help of Experts

The knowledgeable professionals at U.S. Nameplate Co. are prepared to assist you in creating the perfect nameplate or label for your product. When creating your nameplate, we understand the importance of considering who will see it, special requirements that must be met, what it says, and physical attributes such as thickness, size, and how it will be attached to a surface. Contact us for everything you need in your next nameplate.

Posted in Digital Printing, Identification Plates, Industrial Decals, Metal Etching, Metalphoto, Nameplates, Property and Asset Tags, Safety Labels, Screen Printing, Serial Plates, Signs | No Comments »

Choosing the Best Metal Marking Methods

Posted on: September 9th, 2021 by | No Comments

 

Businesses and individuals are often told to go make their mark in the world. At U.S. Nameplate, we make our mark with every custom design we create for our clients.

Since 1946, we have been the supplier of choice for metal nameplates to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) throughout the world. In fact, more than 3,000 OEM’s trust us to design and deliver custom products—including decals, labels, tags, control panels, signs, and nameplates—for all their industry needs.

To help you make your mark, our experienced representatives will discuss the many options for your machinery and your products. When it comes to metal nameplates, you’re spoiled for choice with our materials and marking processes.

We’ll begin by determining the proper metal thickness for your application. Once you select your preferred metal, you can choose from thicknesses ranging between .005” – .125.”

We work with a wide variety of industries—including aerospace, mining, and utilities—and we know each customer has unique specifications. The thickness of the metal depends on your use, how you will affix the nameplate, and what type of mark we can offer. We’re exacting in all we do and proud to be an ISO certified facility and UL approved label supplier.

Following are brief descriptions of five of our marking methods:

Metalphoto®: Known as the most durable aluminum substrate on the market, Metalphoto is a photosensitive, anodized metal used in a wide range of industrial applications. Using your design requirements, we imprint the plate with your custom instructions. Next we embed the metal with graphics by embossing the surface with metallic silver particles. Finally, we seal the marks and cover them with a hard anodic layer. Available in thicknesses ranging from .003″ – .125,” we offer matte, satin, and satin gold finishes.

Metal Etching: Using a chemical etching process, we create designs in aluminum and anodized aluminum which can be manufactured at any size, though most thicknesses vary from .005″ – .125.” We can also etch the surface, then fill those spaces with screen printed inks. At U.S. Nameplate, we recommend the etching process for applications in harsh outdoor conditions, including the aircraft, automotive, and marine industries. We offer finishes in a variety of colors.

Screen Printing: You’ll appreciate all the options when it comes to this process. Why? Screen printing is equally effective on metal or flexible materials like polyester or vinyl. We use a woven mesh with an ink-blocking stencil to create your custom design. In addition to flexible materials, we use a variety of metals and thicknesses to cut and machine your ideal printed project.

Digital printing: Like screen printing above, we can employ a wide variety of media and thicknesses. We apply a digital image directly atop your preferred material. It’s a great choice for small production runs and on-demand printing. In addition to nameplates, digital printing is a great choice for for decals, safety labels, graphic overlays, and control panels.

Embossing: A centuries old process, metal embossing adds three dimensional printing—a raised, sunken, or relief design—to your chosen material. We can emboss on metal or flexible materials, like polycarbonate, up to .032” thick. Embossing creates a tactile and textured surface, useful for products like graphic overlays and buttons.

No matter what the metal, material, thickness, or product, you’ll appreciate the durability of everything we produce at U.S. Nameplate. Our fabricated products last up to 25 years with outdoor and extreme exposures. Contact us today to see how we can help with your metal nameplates.

Posted in Digital Printing, Embossing, Metal Etching, Metalphoto, Nameplates, Screen Printing | No Comments »

How to Choose the Ideal Custom Nameplate

Posted on: August 24th, 2021 by | No Comments

Size does matter.

When jobs and businesses and even lives depend on precision, rely on U.S. Nameplate. Our custom metal nameplates and safety labels are used in a wide variety of industries, including construction, medicine, electronics, the military, and mining.

Our nameplates are designed to contain crucial and easy-to-read information for your industry. They’re formed and sized to adhere perfectly to your equipment. Our durable, high-quality, and custom nameplates provide instructions, offer warnings, and include critical information.

From start to finish, in all we do, U.S. Nameplate provides in-house design, manufacturing, and service. For 70 years, we have been the supplier of choice to more than 3,000 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) throughout the world.

As we help you select the proper sizing factors for your custom nameplate, we’ll discuss the following six considerations:

Material

At U.S. Nameplate Company, we offer five different types of metals: aluminum, anodized aluminum, Metalphoto®, stainless steel, and brass. Depending on your working conditions—whether your plate will be exposed to extreme weather fluctuations, chemicals, humidity, direct sunlight, and/or the interior of a mine shaft, for example—we’ll make sure your metal nameplate is the ideal fit. Our rugged metal nameplates are designed to last up to 25 years in all weather conditions. Click here to learn about the unique properties of each type of metal.

Thickness

We know you have specific requirements for your metal nameplates. We also know the proper size makes all the difference for your projects. Your plates must adhere to many different surfaces. That’s why we’re happy to offer a wide variety of thicknesses for your final product. Once you select your preferred metal, you’ll appreciate that you can choose from thicknesses ranging between .005” – .125.”

Finishes

You can further customize your nameplate by adding beautiful and durable finishes, including satin, clear, red, matte, foil, brushed finishes, and gold. Whether these colors represent your business or brand or they simply help your nameplate and label stand out, you’re spoiled for choice at U.S. Nameplate.

Manufacturing Runs

No job is too small or too large for U.S. Nameplate. From quick orders to enormous runs, we will custom design and produce a rating plate tailored to your project and your industry. And because everything we do is completed under one roof, our friendly staff can immediately respond to all your needs.

Data Rating

Many industries require specific safety information including limitations for weight, temperature, lifting, or electrical hookups. We can design your data rating based on your specifications or can leave your plate empty for later written instructions. We’re proud to be an ISO certified facility and UL-approved label supplier.

Product Variety

As an OEM, your job is to provide critical information. If you have a need, we can fulfill it. Our designers will work with you every step of the way. In addition to metal nameplates, we also offer decals, safety labels, signs, control panels, serial plates, and much more.

Count on the professionals at U.S. Nameplate for all your identification products. Contact us today for a quote. We look forward to designing solutions for your needs.

 

Posted in Data Rating Plates, Metalphoto, Nameplates | No Comments »

How to Choose Adhesives for Nameplates, Labels & Tags

Posted on: August 9th, 2021 by | No Comments

industrial safety labels

 

When you choose the brand name for your business, the hope is to make it stick in your consumer’s minds. The same is true for labeling your equipment and products with your brand logo, specifications or tracking information. You need something that sticks, literally. When it comes to choosing the right adhesives for industrial labels or nameplates, there are a variety of things to consider to be sure you’ll have a lasting hold. On what surface will the nameplate be attached to? Will it be used indoors or outdoors? Will it be exposed to chemicals or extreme temperature ranges? In the following guide, we’ll walk through the different factors that affect adhesion and discuss solutions for each.

 

Surface Condition

First, the surface of both your nameplate and the surface it will adhere to are two of the most important determinants. This can include the materials used, their texture, size, flexibility, surface energy, and any treatment that’s been applied to either surface.

 

Materials

Generally, adhesives are known for easily attaching to metals. And U.S. Nameplate offers the industry’s top choice in foam adhesive for metal nameplates. Some plastic materials like polyester, polycarbonate and vinyl, require a plasticizer-resistant adhesive to prevent softening or loosening of the bond. The flexible material options at U.S. Nameplate Co., however, accept a variety of adhesives including tapes and instant solutions.

 

Texture

Texture also plays a role in determining the type of adhesive you’ll need. If you are attaching to a rough or irregular surface, a foam adhesive can fill the gaps between the two surfaces. Smooth surfaces, on the other hand, have a much wider variety of adhesive options depending on the other factors discussed in this blog.

 

Treatment

We mentioned earlier that metals are often easy to adhere to, however, there is an exception when the metal has been powder coat painted. In this case, the coating becomes the bonding surface and requires an adhesive made specifically for that. U.S. Nameplate Co. offers a foam adhesive for just this situation with the 3M 300LSE Series.

 

Size

Size is another important factor. As a general rule, the larger the size, the greater the strength of adhesion you’ll need to form a durable bond. For instance, hanging a large metal sign will require a much stronger adhesive than a small plastic tag.

 

 

Cleanliness

Regardless of the material, texture or other attributes, it is essential that the surface you’re adhering your nameplate to is dry and clean to maximize the strength of the bond. This means removing any dirt, grease or other residues that may prevent adhesion. For most surfaces, a 50-50 mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol will suffice, however, certain materials or impurities may require additional preparation. Make sure to follow the application guidelines provided with your adhesive backed nameplates for optimal durability.

 

Surface Energy

The last component of the surface to consider is the surface energy. Surface energy determines the strength of attraction between two materials. The higher the surface energy, the greater the bond. Metals and plastics like acrylic, polyester and polycarbonate all have high surface energies and are easier to adhere to. Low surface energy plastics include polyvinyl, polystyrene, polyethylene. There are, however, many adhesive solutions made specifically for low surface energy materials like the 3M LSE Series.

 

Application Orientation

Just as a surface’s attributes affect its adhesive bond capability, the orientation of an application also plays a role. If you are placing your adhesive nameplate on a stationary horizontal plane like the top of an electrical box, the weight of the nameplate really isn’t a factor. If you are hanging a nameplate on a wall or any other vertical plane, however, you have gravity working against you. This means you’ll need to consider the weight of the nameplate and choose a stronger adhesive to hold the product in place.

 

Environment & Use

Orientation isn’t the only component of an adhesive nameplate’s application that you need to consider. The type of product the nameplate is being applied to (mobile or stationary) and where it will be located (indoor or outdoor) will also affect the adhesive. For example, machinery that is constantly moving will need a stronger adhesive than a stationary application. And if that machinery is often used outdoors like construction or farm equipment, you’ll need an adhesive that is resistant to harsh outdoor environments. Some indoor environments can be just as demanding, such as in the medical or food service industries. Indoor applications in these environments may also require stronger adhesives.

 

Exposure to the Elements

Along with its environment, an application’s potential exposure to elements like extreme temperatures, harsh chemicals, UV light and humidity will also require specific adhesive solutions. U.S. Nameplate Co. offers a variety of 3M adhesives made specifically for these situations, including the following:

 

  • High heat: 3M 200MP Series has excellent high temperature performance
  • Extreme cold: 3M 300LSO Series has excellent high and low temperature performance
  • Chemicals: 3M Series are resistant to occasional contact with chemicals
  • UV Light: 3M 200MP Series & 300LSE Series are UV resistant
  • Humidity: 3M 200MP Series & 3M 300LSE Series are waterproof

 

At U.S. Nameplate Co., we strive to offer custom and innovative solutions to fit your business or industrial needs. We work closely with adhesive manufacturers to provide you the best solution, even if we don’t currently have it in stock.

For more information about the specific materials or adhesives that are best for your project, give us a call or send us a message and one of our highly skilled team members will help create a custom solution for you.

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Why Custom Nameplates Are Better Than Blanks

Posted on: June 30th, 2021 by | No Comments

Reasons why custom nameplates are better than blanks

 

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U.S. Nameplate Lead Time

Posted on: May 26th, 2021 by | No Comments

U.S. Nameplate Lead Time

U.S. Nameplate Lead Time

U.S. Nameplate Co. Lead Time

From concept through to completion, U.S. Nameplate Company is a one-stop shop, ready and able to manufacture all of your identification products’ requirements.

The process begins when products are requested online or through a U.S. Nameplate Co. representative. We are please to offer custom solutions for both metal and flexible products ranging from decals to graphic overlays to aluminum tags of all kinds, saving our customers time and money. Once your request is processed, a quote is generated and submitted in 48 hours or less.

Once the customer accepts the pricing/processes, they can then submit a purchase order. As soon as the purchase order is received, a paper proof is created in 48 hours or less.

Once the paper proof is approved, production takes place in our modern, 55,000 square foot, climate controlled facility. By day 15, your order is shipped. With seven decades of experience, you can rely on our service and delivery.

Contact us for more information about our processes or get a quote.

 

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Nameplate Printing Durability Infographic

Posted on: April 20th, 2021 by | No Comments

nameplate durability

Nameplate Processes & Durability

The printing process and materials used for your nameplate will affect its durability and longevity. Generally, digital printing will last 2-3 years on paper, 4 years on vinyl and around 7 years on metal. Screen printing can last up to 12-13 years on metal, but only 5 years on film and 2-3 on paper. Etching and Metalphoto are the most durable processes used on metal nameplates and can last up to 30 years.

Our nameplate experts are happy to help you find the right material and printing option for your nameplate needs. Give us a call or contact us for more information.

 

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4 Types of Damage That Affect Nameplate Longevity & Readability

Posted on: April 16th, 2021 by | No Comments

There’s no denying how quickly some nameplates can deteriorate and lose readability depending on the environment they are in. There are many factors that lead to ineffective nameplates, but we’ve identified four main processes that are common across industries and damage nameplates the most. Knowing these types of damage, how to identify them, and how to avoid them (if possible), can help you determine which nameplate material is best for your application.

Abrasion

Abrasion is the process of scraping a surface that results in its deterioration or wearing away. The types of identification products that are commonly exposed to conditions associated with abrasion are nameplates, labels, graphic overlays, and products that are constantly touched, pushed and prodded.

These conditions are likely to cause buttons, icons, and instructions that were printed on the nameplate, graphic overlay, or membrane switch to become difficult to see, which can make an inherently dangerous environment even more so. When important nameplates aren’t clearly readable to employees and visitors, serious damage and/or injury is likely to occur. It’s important when deciding on and placing nameplates, to take into account the type of contact they’re likely to encounter such as abrasion. Seeking specific abrasion resistant nameplates will help you avoid these unnecessarily dangerous situations.

Corrosion

Corrosion, a process most people are familiar with, is a gradual destruction of materials by chemical and/or electrochemical reaction with their environment. As it relates to nameplates, serial tags, data rating plates, control panels, and signs, the factor that will affect corrosion of these materials the most is the environment they are used in. Utilizing the properly designed or treated materials within a given environment is the most effective deterrent of corrosion.

If equipment is stored or operates in a hot, moist climate, corrosion will occur at a faster rate. Taking it a step further, if water comes into contact with a nameplate it may become damaged over time. The lower the pH (acidity) of the water that comes into contact with your nameplate, the quicker the rate of corrosion. Whether it’s road salt or saltwater, salt accelerates the rate of metal rust and corrosion as well. Bacteria has a corrosive nature that is unknown to many people. When colonies of bacteria form on metal, they speed up the corrosion process and cause pitting on the metal surface. Once atmospheric oxidation begins, the materials disintegrate at the surface through a chemical reaction, removing important information and can affect attachment. Taking a proactive approach to avoid corrosion will allow you to save money and promote safety within the workplace.

Chemicals

Chemicals can be detrimental to the readability of warning and instructional plates, schematics, model and serial plates, barcode plates, and asset tags. Because various chemicals are so prevalent across many industries, it is likely each business should consider a nameplate that is resistant to such damage. The most common types of chemicals within a business that cause damage are alcohol, gas, and acetone, which can destroy printed labels, remove ink, cause adhesion problems and related safety issues.

Temperature

Extreme heat from friction, welding, stovetops, engines, prolonged sunlight, etc., and cold temps found in freezers, extreme winter weather conditions, and refrigeration equipment can create issues for nameplates used in a facility. Extreme high temperatures can distort images and wording which can completely change the meaning of a label or nameplate. High temps are also associated with catastrophic failure in nameplate adhesion and can cause them to fall off the surface their affixed to. They can also be faded beyond recognition if left in direct sunlight for an extended period of time. High temperature nameplates and high temperature labels may be the only solution to a need for nameplate durability.

Nameplates, labels, data rating plates, serial tags, and signs that are held on a surface through adhesion may also be affected by extreme cold. Adhesive materials may shrink, become brittle, and lose properties that make them ‘sticky’ to begin with. Nameplates that become distorted or fall off a surface create the opportunity for accidents, which can cost a business greatly. Avoiding such conditions will help in prolonging the life of nameplates, but if avoidance isn’t possible businesses need to invest in nameplates that can stand up to these conditions.

Durable Options from U.S. Nameplate Co.

At U.S. Nameplate Co., we build our products to withstand harsh environments. In fact, some of our nameplates are built to last up to 25 years. No matter what the conditions or job-sweltering heat, freezing cold, underground work, and continual outdoor exposure-our metal nameplates really take a beating. We offer custom work using aluminum, stainless steel and brass metal plates. For outdoor use, U.S. Nameplate Company uses a special metal etching process that actually becomes part of the metal. While these materials and processes are durable and tough, there are tried and true methods to ensure they last even longer. The more effectively you can protect and preserve your metal nameplate, the more time and money you’ll save.

The following list provides an overview for the durable nameplate and label materials we offer. Depending on the application of the nameplate there may be multiple options available for your durability needs. If your business is experiencing nameplate damage similar to the types listed above, we have a practical and affordable solution for you.

Polyester

Polyester has high tensile strength and is resistant to chemicals, abrasion and tears. This material is frequently used for panel overlays, labels and nameplates.

Brass

Brass is resistant to saltwater, corrosion and chemicals and Is generally a durable choice for nameplates and signs.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has exceptional resistance to chemicals and corrosion. It is the preferred choice for caustic and acidic environments and is commonly used for nameplates, panels and signs.

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight and provides good corrosion resistance. This is another popular choice for nameplates, panels and signs.

Anodized Aluminum

Anodized aluminum has exceptional abrasion resistance and durability against corrosion, extreme temperatures, chemicals and solvents. Anodized aluminum is frequently used for nameplates, panels, overlays and labels.

Metalphoto

Metalphoto is the most durable and widely used material for nameplates, panels, overlays, signs and labels. It has superior resistance to abrasion, cleaning solvents, most chemicals, UV and extreme temperatures with ability to withstand outdoor exposure for 20 years or more.

Optional Finishes to Increase Durability

Screen Printing

Screen printing is a finish option that helps increase resistance to abrasion, chemicals and solvents.

Aluminum Etching

Aluminum etching increases resistance to chemicals and harsh, outdoor environments.

Contact us today for more information about our durable identification products or to get a quote.

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