Archive: Oct 2018

Screen Printing Process

Screen printing is the most economical process for producing aluminum, stainless steel, brass, or bronze. A wide variety of colors are possible and durable coats of baked varnishes are added to ensure long-lasting serviceability. Through the screen printing process, all of your screen printed metal labels and nameplates will withstand multiple environmental conditions, so you can use them inside or outside as needed.

Take a quick look at the informative photo describing the screen printing process involving a squeegee, film negatives, photo emulsion, ink, screen, and the material of your choice.

A mesh screen acts as a stencil and covers the metal surface, while a squeegee-type applicator applies inks and epoxies to your tag. The final step in the screen printing process is where a surface coat is applied to the nameplate, creating a seal for your color and extending your decal’s lifespan.

Chemical Etching Process

What is Chemical Etching?

Similar to an engraving process, American Nameplate can offer the unique process of Chemical Etching for your parts. While engraving is usually produced manually one piece at a time, Chemical Etching has the benefit to produce large-run quantity nameplates and generate the permanent impression needed for your parts. Our etch depth typically ranges between .003” to .007” deep, depending on customer requirements. Customers have a few options to choose from. The first option is either Etch the copy into the metal and fill it with a color or to etch the copy and leave its natural color. Another option is to Etch the background, which results in a slightly raised and bumped-up copy/logo. Customers again have the option to fill in the etched background with a color for a specific contrast or leave it natural for a subtle look.

Chemical Etching Benefits

There are many benefits to getting an etched metal nameplate. This type of nameplate process can be done on various materials including (but not limited to): aluminum, stainless steel, brass, bronze, nickel silver, CRS, Monel, and Zinc.

Secondly, while it is similar to engraving, etching can be done to many pieces simultaneously and sheered to size. This is important when comparing the cost and turnaround time with a manual engraving machine.

Another added benefit of Chemical Etching is the permanently etched impressions built to last the lifetime of the nameplate. We recommend Chemical Etched parts to companies that need a permanent marking and may be exposed to harsh environments. Companies will rest easy knowing that their parts will always be identifiable when needed. While their natural environments may eat away at the surface, paint, or ink, rest assured that the etched copy or background is a permanent marking that will always remain.

Contact our sales team to speak to a specialist about what nameplate process is best for your company and product. Call us at 800-878-6186 or email us a blueprint at: sales@american-nameplate.com 

Before ordering a Nameplate – Here are some things to consider…

There are many different aspects to consider before buying a nameplate, decal, graphic overlay, dial, or label for your company.

First, consider its main and primary function. Will this be used for product identification, safety, serial numbering, or just branding purposes?

Determining the use can help narrow down the process which works best for you and your company. For example, if you’re looking to have your brand “stand out” above the rest, embossing is a great way to create a lasting 3D impression. Keep in mind that embossing a nameplate can have its drawbacks for its impeccable style. Some of these draw backs will be highlighted later in our blog, but one main concern is the cost produce a male and female die set special for your 1 of a kind nameplate. Perhaps you’re looking for a nameplate that’s main focus is safety or legibility? This type of nameplate may be better suited for an Etched process. Etched nameplates can hinder fading or illegibility over generations of use.  Looking for a more economical route with a bit more color? Check out our Screened nameplates as an alternative.

Second, consider is how the nameplate/label will be handled?

This is essential in determining if any corner fabrication is needed. For example, is the nameplate being handled daily by workers? In these cases, rounded corners are often preferred. We here at American Nameplate have various corner radius sizes to fit your needs including scalloped, squared, rounded, and if a specific size/shape is needed for your design, our specialists can always quote a specific tool for the job at a premium cost.

Lastly, Where and how will the nameplate/label be displayed?

We offer multiple fabrication options such as holes and a variety of adhesives. Concluding the final placement of your nameplate is imperative to configuring location and size of holes in order to mount your nameplate with screws/fasteners. If you don’t have a need for holes, we stock various types of adhesives that may work best for your product and surface. Different finishes such as: paints, bare metals, power-coats, wood, heated surfaces, and etc can affect the way your adhesives bonds to the surface.

Our specialists can help you determine which nameplate will best fit your needs based on quantity, purpose, needs, handling, and surface material. Call our office today to speak directly with a member of our sales team!