Aluminum Photo Seal / Photosensitive Nameplates
When you’re in need of an identification label that’s built to last, photo seal or photosensitive nameplates are the product for you. American Nameplate is a supplier for photo seal nameplates and labels. Send us your specific image to be handcrafted, or we’ll work with you to determine the best design for your identification and business needs.
How Photo Seal Labels Are Made
Aluminum is the metal you’ll want to use for a photo seal nameplate, and during the first step of the photo sealing process, ink for your text or design is screened onto a piece of aluminum that hasn’t been finished or sealed. Once the ink is transferred onto the surface, a finishing layer of chemicals is used to seal the aluminum. The result is a metal tag that has ink on an inner surface, not the top. It’s also permanently sealed, so the design of your tag or label is unable to be scratched off or removed.
What Are the Benefits of a Photo Seal Aluminum Nameplates?
The most obvious benefit of a photo seal metal nameplate is that your design cannot be removed. Any type of abrasive material used against the nameplate won’t damage the visual or textual display. A photo seal nameplate is also resistant to corrosion. In extreme environments, this tag can even withstand exposure to heat and UV rays.
A photo seal nameplate used for an equipment label is one of the most durable identification labels available. It is also the strongest custom aluminum substrate due to its high-resolution capability.
While the photo seal/photosensitive process is very common among businesses and industries tied to the military and aerospace, other applications are possible. Some of the other uses of photo seal nameplates include:
- Wiring diagrams
- Procedure identification
- Equipment and utility tags
- CMMS and LDAR plates
- Medical tags
- Specification plates
UID Photo Seal Metal Decals at American Nameplate
While photo sealing is limited to aluminum, there is flexibility in the customization process. American Nameplate offers 10 thickness options for two types of alloy. You can request your decals to be adhesive, or you can choose mechanical fasteners to ensure they can go where they need to.
Specification
 Aluminum | |
|---|---|
| Alloy | 5005, 1100 |
| Thickness (in.) | 0.003 in., 0.005 in., 0.008 in., 0.012 in., 0.020 in., 0.025 in., 0.032 in., 0.040 in., 0.050 in., 0.063 in. |
| Finish | Clear Anodize |
| Adhesives |
|
| Rounded Corners | Optional |
| Serial Numbering Height | 0.063, 0.093, 0.125, 0.186, 0.375 |
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about photo seal nameplates, check out our common FAQ section!
What is a Photo Seal Nameplate?
A photo seal nameplate is a high-grade identification label that embeds a high-resolution design beneath a protective chemical layer. This process, where the ink is screened onto the metal and permanently sealed beneath an anodic layer, delivers superior durability for long-lasting identification. The design process makes photo seal nameplates one of the most durable options available.
How Long Do Photo Seal Nameplates Last?
In indoor applications, photo seal nameplates often last a lifetime. They last longer than standard painted or printed labels because they are permanently sealed beneath the protective layer rather than sitting on top of the surface.
The photo sealing process also helps resist abrasion, corrosion, UV rays and heat exposure. That’s why they’re ideal for harsh environments and long-term, complex applications.
What’s the Difference Between Photo Seal and Other Nameplate Types?
Unlike surface-printed nameplates, photo seal has ink sealed beneath the surface rather than on top. This means the design cannot be scratched, worn or rubbed off, providing superior durability compared to standard labels or decals. Since photo seal nameplate resists UV rays, heat and corrosion, they make an excellent choice for outdoor applications and extreme environments.
At American Nameplate, we offer photo seal nameplates that are compliant with relevant industry standards. We maintain product integrity, performance and safety by complying with REACH and RoHS, and by working with certified bodies, including FM Approvals, UL and Intertek, to meet various compliance requirements.
What Industries Use Photo Seal Nameplates?
Our photo seal nameplates serve a wide range of industries, especially those with demanding environments and complex identification requirements. Whether your project calls for permanent rugged identification or aesthetic branding panels, you can trust us to craft durable, custom solutions for any application.
- Military and defense
- Aerospace and aviation
- Medical and healthcare
- Industrial manufacturing
- Municipalities
What Customization Options Are Available?
At American Nameplate, we offer customization options based on your needs. Our photo seal technology offers high-resolution capability for detailed logos, complex graphics, technical diagrams and fine text. Barcodes and variable data can also be incorporated into your design. Our customization capabilities include:
- Size and shape, including rounded or square corners
- Thickness ranging from 0.003 inches to 0.063 inches
- Aluminum alloy, either 5005 or 1100
- Adhesive options, including multiple 3M adhesives
- Serial numbering with various heights, from 0.063 inches to 0.375 inches
Fill out our online quote form with material specs, quantity, part size, number of colors and other special requirements. Upload your design file if available. A representative will contact you quickly.
Request a Quote and Learn More
An online form is available on our site to request a quote. After you submit the form, a representative will be in touch quickly to further discuss the specifications of your design. Trust American Nameplate to be your photo seal nameplate supplier today.
