Communicating your needs to your manufacturer is vital to achieve the most optimal product for your business. Regarding the design of your nameplates, you might have different requirements and specifics due to their designated purposes. To help streamline the process, here are three factors you should consider when manufacturing your custom nameplate.
1. Choice of materials
When deciding the material choice for your nameplate, consider the functionality of it. What is the primary purpose or objective of the nameplate you are trying to manufacture? Are the nameplates functional or purely decorative? These are questions you should ponder about before selecting the required material.
For businesses that operate in industrial settings, it would be best to choose metallic nameplates for their durability. Metals such as stainless steel are weather-resistant, durable, and do not rust or corrode. The structural integrity and characteristics of stainless steel make it the go-to choice for companies who require nameplates for production lines, heavy plant machinery or signages that need to weather harsh conditions. Aluminium is another popular material of choice as it is lightweight and durable. Similar to stainless steel, aluminium is also rust and corrosion-resistant. At Hillier, we can manufacture both stainless steel and aluminium nameplates according to your needs.
For non-metal options, vinyl and polycarbonate are popular choices. Plastic derivatives are waterproof and abrasion resistant, making them suitable for outdoor use.
2. Printing process
Depending on the design and material of your nameplate, different printing methods are used during manufacture. We recommend using the chemical etching technique for metallic nameplates during manufacture. Chemical etching is a process where indents are carved into metal surfaces using a chemical acid. The acid removes the unwanted material, leaving your design permanently etched onto your nameplate. Our machines can then use high-quality ink to fill the indents for a coloured finish.
The silkscreen printing method is typically used for non-metallic nameplates such as those made out of polycarbonate. Using a stencil, your desired design is silkscreen printed onto your nameplate, leaving a vibrant and colourful finish. The colours on nameplates that are silkscreen printed are also long-lasting.
3. Additional design features
It is crucial that you communicate any extra needs you have to your manufacturer, whether it be to include additional features or designs to your nameplate.However, do note that you might require notches on your nameplate for mounting purposes.
At Hillier, we use press stamping to carve out unique shapes according to your design template for specific designs that may require cutting. Using a custom die, your design can be easily cut out from the metal, leaving it clean and crisp.
Conclusion
Designing your nameplates can be easy if you communicate your needs to your manufacturer. For peace of mind, pick a company that is well-versed and knowledgeable about the processes. Hillier Industries has been in the printing industry for decades and has a range of services, such as UV rotary printing press stamping, high-quality label and sticker printing, and offset printing in Singapore. Speak with us, and we will advise you on the best solution for your printing needs!