1. Pressure Sensitive Metal Labels & Decals
Definition
Pressure Sensitive Metal Labels & Decals are self-adhesive metal identification products that bond to surfaces via pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA), requiring no heat, water, or solvents for installation. They combine the durability of metal with the convenience of peel-and-stick application, widely used for asset marking, equipment branding, and industrial identification.
Core Materials
- Metal Substrates: 304/316 stainless steel (corrosion-resistant, outdoor-rated), aluminum (lightweight, cost-effective), brass/copper (decorative, high-end), and zinc alloy (durable, customizable).
- Adhesive: High-performance pressure-sensitive adhesive (acrylic or rubber-based) with options for permanent bonding, removable, high-temperature resistance, or chemical resistance.
- Protective Film: Optional clear PET or polycarbonate overlamination to shield graphics from scratches, UV, and chemicals.
Key Processes
- Material Preparation: Cut metal sheets to size, clean and degrease to ensure adhesive bonding.
2. Engraved Dual-Color Sheets (Engraved Two-Color Plastic Laminate)
Definition
Engraved Dual-Color Sheets (also called two-color plastic laminate or engraving stock) are rigid plastic sheets consisting of a surface color layer and a core color layer, typically made of ABS, PVC, or modified acrylic. When the top color layer is engraved away, the contrasting core color is revealed, creating sharp, durable, and high-contrast graphics without ink or paint.
Core Materials
- ABS Dual-Color Sheet: Most common, good impact resistance, easy to engrave, ideal for indoor and general industrial use.
- PVC Dual-Color Sheet: Low cost, good chemical resistance, suitable for signage and labels.
- Modified Acrylic (Polycarbonate Blend): High clarity, UV resistance, suitable for outdoor and high-end applications.
- Structure: Typically 0.020”–0.125” (0.5mm–3mm) total thickness; surface layer ~0.002”–0.006” (0.05mm–0.15mm) thick.
Key Processes
- Design & Toolpath: Convert graphics/text into vector files for CNC or laser engraving.
- Engraving: Use CNC router or laser engraver to remove the top color layer precisely, exposing the core color.
- CNC Engraving: Ideal for deep, tactile marks and large text; suitable for thick sheets.
- Laser Engraving: High precision for fine details, small text, and complex logos; fast for small-to-medium runs.
- Deburring & Cleaning: Remove engraving residue and burrs for a clean finish.
- Finishing: Optional coating (clear lacquer, UV protectant) for outdoor durability; die cutting to shape.
Advantages
- High Contrast & Legibility: Engraved graphics are sharp and long-lasting; no fading or peeling (unlike printed labels).
- Tactile Marking: Engraved recesses provide tactile feedback, ideal for visually impaired or low-light environments.
- Cost-Effective: No ink, paint, or plating required; lower cost than metal engraving for many applications.
- Easy Machining: Cuts, drills, and engraves cleanly with standard tools.
- Wide Color Selection: Hundreds of color combinations (e.g., black/white, blue/yellow, red/silver) for visibility and branding.
Typical Applications
- Control panel labels, equipment nameplates, switch and button markers.
- Indoor and outdoor signage, safety labels, directional signs.
- Architectural plaques, trophy plates, educational and institutional markers.
- Electronic device labels, medical equipment control interfaces.
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