Equipment nameplates – durability vs aesthetics vs cost

In many industries and workplaces, it is necessary to identify, tag and brand items such as machinery, portable equipment, switchboxes, control panels and many other physical assets. 

Unique identification information such as serial numbers, QR and bar codes, ID tags and registration data often need to be attached to enable product tracking, item identification, and time or location recording.

Durable, readable, cost effective

Any nameplates used in such applications will need to have proven longevity, be highly durable, easily readable and provide a cost effective solution. The durability and aesthetics of the nameplate, the material used and type of finish, and cost should all be considered when choosing a nameplate. Here’s our guide to choosing the right nameplate based upon all those factors:

Base materials

For equipment and assets used in a wide variety of application environments, metal nameplates present an ideal solution. Metal nameplates are inherently more resistant to chemicals, abrasion and direct sunlight, and provide the longevity needed to be cost effective in the first place. They’re available in aluminium, brass and stainless steel which will all provide a series of benefits for certain application.

Surface finishes

Surface printed – artwork is silk-screenprinted directly onto the surface of the nameplate material and coated with a protective lacquer. Ideal for general purpose nameplates where there is no physical contact or wear and tear. Surface printed nameplates provide the most cost-effective nameplate solution. For more challenging environments a more durable finish is recommended.

Anodic printing –  is the process of physically embedding and sealing colour dyes into the surface layer of anodised aluminium – this creates a highly durable print media. Anodising also enhances resistance to surface scratching and chemicals. Anodic printing is the most popular form of nameplate produced and is used extensively in the automotive industry for VIN and trailer plates.

Etching – an image is chemically etched into the material surface and then coloured with a permanent infill paint, providing an extremely durable, robust surface finish. Highly resistant to physical wear and tear, and corrosive solutions. Etching involves a greater number of production processes which results in a premium, but aesthetically pleasing nameplate solution. Used in a wide array of industries including automotive, construction and petrochemical.

The right supplier

One of the most important factors in getting a cost effective and high quality solution is working with a supplier that are able to provide experience, knowledge and application advice to ensure that an engineered nameplate solution can be sourced and supplied. With our vast and considerable experience, Inform Products are more than able to provide the most effective nameplate for your needs.

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With their wealth of knowledge, staff at Inform Products will be more than happy to talk through ideas and processes to make sure a nameplate will be built to last. Call us now on 01473 820060 or contact us.

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