Nameplate Blog

Each product has its own unique set of challenges in creating a strong brand presence which differentiates the product in the marketplace.  A nameplate can help a product stand out among others and deliver a clear consistent look for a brand.

Simmons wanted to create a cost effective nameplate that would catch attention on the showroom floor.  They also needed the nameplate to be applied to a variety of types of fabric.  Since the side of the mattress flexed in use, it was important that the label also flex.

The domed label that was designed met all challenges unique to a mattress application.  A chrome polyester substrate was combined with a deep transparent purple tint for visual depth.  This was accented further when a flexible urethane dome was applied to the label.  The dome also complimented the mother of pearl effect used in the background of the nameplate.

The solution for applying the domed label to fabric was to stitch the label to the mattress right through the urethane dome.  A pressure sensitive adhesive was used for initial placement of the label.

A common question that arises during the design phase of a nameplate is: how can I hide the raw edge of aluminum on my nameplate?  This is especially a concern when the nameplate is a very dark color and is being applied to a dark colored substrate.  In this case, the exposed silver edge of the aluminum is objectionable.  There are several options to consider:

1. Create a recess: a recess in the product allows the nameplate to be set in, hiding the raw silver edge of aluminum
2. Form the nameplate: the edge of the nameplate can be formed creating a dimensional nameplate with the edge hidden
3. Add a silver border: a silver border around the edge of the nameplate will help disguise the silver edge
4. Roll the edge: a slight rolled edge on the outside of the nameplate turns the edge back so the silver edge is minimized

Hiding the aluminum colored edge of the nameplate was a challenge during the design of the new Dell Adamo nameplate.  The solution involved a combination of approaches.  First, there was a slight recess in the product where the nameplate was placed.  However, space was limited and the depth of the recess was limited.  The next step involved putting a slight rolled edge on the part.  The silver edge was turned back slightly to help minimize the visible aluminum edge.  A third step involved making the overall transparent tint of color slightly lighter.  The original design called for a near black tint of color.  The laptop is also brushed black.  The two black areas highlighted any silver edge.  The final design direction used a dark grey tint of color for the nameplate.  This helped visually to minimize the appearance of silver.

A second version of the aluminum nameplate was created using the same tools.  This was an economical option for differentiating the product in the marketplace.  This version featured the same mechanical processes for the decoration of the nameplate.  The Dell logo is highlighted with an emboss and spin.  The spin is a circular brush which adds visual movement to the logo.  The background is brushed.  Both nameplates created a premium look for the brand.

In this article, I will cover the options for silver areas in a nameplate.  We often receive requests for nameplates which call out a silver graphic.  There are many alternatives to consider when creating a nameplate which includes silver graphics, borders or background.  Here are some of the possibilities.

1. Bright Aluminum: Consider high gloss or low gloss for a polished or satin effect.
2. Brushed Aluminum: Determine which direction the brush should appear.
3. Spin on Aluminum: Consider high gloss or low gloss for a polished or satin effect.
4. Metallic Silver: Review the various the looks available using different metallic flakes.
5. Diamond Cut: Consider the types of diamond cut available.
6. Etch: Determine whether a standard or deep etch is desired.
7. Other Mechanical Finishes: Consider engine stripe or engine turn as options.

Bright Aluminum

How bright the aluminum surface looks is somewhat dependent on the finishes around it.  It tends to have a brighter appearance next to high contrast colors.  However, a premium look can be created when combining various silvers.  A protective topcoat is applied to the surface of the nameplate.  This is what determines your gloss level.  A high, medium or low gloss topcoat create very different looks on bright aluminum.

Brushed Aluminum

Brushed aluminum is also available in various gloss levels.  In addition you need to consider if you want a horizontal or vertical brush.  The brush can also be applied selectively creating graphics, borders or patterns.

Spin on Aluminum

A spin is often used on round dials but can be an attention getting look on graphics or on the background of a rectangular nameplate.  A natural movement is created as light is reflected off the spin.  Both high gloss and low gloss options are attractive.

Metallic Silver

Metallic silver is available in a range of looks which rely on the metal flake used to change the appearance of the surface.  A very fine metallic flake creates refined satin look while a coarse flake offers a more rugged appearance.  The metallic colors in low gloss offer a nice contrast with bright aluminum.

Diamond Cut

The diamond cut process creates a highly reflective surface with crisp graphics.  The graphics must be embossed prior to diamond cutting allowing the surface of the raised areas to be cut.  There are several diamond cut looks to choose from.

Etched Aluminum

It is popular to use the etching process to etch either graphics or the background of a nameplate.  The etched surface results in a matte silver effect.  A standard etched aluminum creates a very subtle relief while a deep etch is used for more defined graphics.

Engine Stripe & Engine Turn

Engine stripe and engine turn create movement in graphics.  They are very effective when used in small areas to add depth and dimension.  A subtle sheen results in a standout effect on your graphics.

In this article, I will offer insights into the steps involved in designing an aluminum nameplate.  It is easy to overlook some of these steps and end up spending time redesigning the nameplate.  This is a quick checklist when working on a new nameplate.

1. Objective: Consider what the overall intent is for your nameplate.
2. Graphics: Determine what graphics are to be include on the nameplate.
3. Shape & size: Consider what the overall dimensions and silhouette are for the nameplate.
4. Colors: Determine what colors are to be used in your nameplate design.
5. Appearance: Consider what overall effect you would like to achieve in the nameplate.
6. Environment: Provide a listing of product specifications or environmental requirements to be met.
7. Attachment: Review options for attaching your nameplate to your product.

Nameplate Design

There are many possibilities to consider when designing an aluminum nameplate.  It is often helpful to work with us at the very beginning of your project.  We can work with you to show you your options and offer suggestions that will help you meet your design intent.  We offer concept drawings to help explore different looks.  They are a quick way to evaluate your options. 

Objective of Nameplate

What is the statement you want your nameplate to make?  Does it need to work across your product line on a variety of different colored products?  Do you need it to stand out and catch attention?  Are you looking for a refined elegant look?  Is this an industrial application that requires a durable tough look?  What is the budget for this project?  These are some of the questions to consider when beginning the nameplate design process. 

Logo or Graphic Design

Many nameplates include simply a logo.  Others incorporate a model or product name into the nameplate.  Borders are often added for visual interest or to set off key elements on the nameplate.  It is possible to add patterns to create additional detail.  They can be subtle or bold and printed to create a subtle texture.

Shape & Size of the Nameplate

Many times your specific logo or graphics will provide visual cues which help you determine the appropriate shape for the nameplate.  A block logo or font may be more appropriate on a rectangular nameplate.  The nameplate can also be created in a silhouette of the logo with a minimal amount of background supporting the graphics.  In addition, stock dies are available in a wide variety of sizes and offer a way to help control tooling costs.

Colors

This one sounds straight forward.  I want black and silver and I'm done.  The reality is there are options with each color.  For example, colors can be opaque or transparent.  Transparent colors allow the reflective quality of the aluminum to show through.  Consideration also needs to be made for what gloss level is desired.  A low gloss black against a bright aluminum creates a completely different look than a piano black with bright accents.  Even with silver there are many options, one of which is metallics.  Metallic colors have small metal flakes in the pigment.  They are naturally low gloss and contrast nicely with bright aluminum.  Four color process is also an option for nameplates with multiple colors and gradations of color.

Appearance

You're well on your way by the time you are at this step in your design.  However, there are still additional considerations.  Do you want a dimensional look to your nameplate?  Will your nameplate sit in a recess?  Is the nameplate applied to a contoured surface?  Embossing, debossing and forming are tooling options available to add dimension to your nameplate.  Doming can also be used to add depth. 

Environment & Specifications

The environment your nameplate will be used in determines what protective topcoats we will use in the aluminum decoration process.  The clear topcoat provides the overall gloss level for the part and protects the nameplate from harsh environments.  We offer different topcoats depending on your end requirements.

Attachment

A wide array of pressure sensitive and heat activated adhesives can be used to attach your nameplate.  Foam adhesives are available in a variety of thicknesses and are often used for attaching to rough surfaces.  In addition, mechanical options such as snap fit, tabs and studs can be used for attachment to the final product.

The result when consideration is put in up front for all of these aspects is a successful nameplate.  Taking the time to consider each of these areas will actually speed up the design and production process.  It will focus efforts on the path which leads to a nameplate that represents your brand as you need it to.

Nameplates are used on a diverse range of products, each with their own set of unique needs.  A smooth cleanable surface was one of the requirements for the Whirlpool ice and water nameplates.  The nameplates also needed to be adhered to a curved surface.   A custom aluminum nameplate was created to meet these needs. 

The solution, which Whirlpool and Northern Engraving worked together to design, is a truly unique urethane domed nameplate which is formed.  The norlens, or doming process, is combined with embossed graphics.  The dimensional graphics catch the light while the lens provides a smooth surface.  A simple change in background color allowed the same nameplate to be used on different models.

Nameplates consisting of individual letters create a clean look on the final product.  In addition, single letters make the badge versatile.  The same nameplate can be used on a variety of different colored products.  Singular ID and NECODome provide many options for creating a nameplate with individual graphic elements using metal or plastic substrates. 

The Singular ID process can be combined with a full range of decorating options on aluminum.  Possibilities include selective color or pattern, mechanical finishes and diamond cutting.

The mechanical finish used on the Singular ID HP nameplate is an engine stripe.  The engine stripe is similar to an arching brush.  It creates subtle movement over the surface of the nameplate.  The result creates a premium look.

Singular ID is combined with one of many diamond cut surfaces on the CommScope nameplate.  This creates a highly reflective surface that is eye-catching.  A heat activated adhesive is used to adhere the nameplate to the product.

Yamaha takes advantage of selective color on the aluminum in its Singular ID nameplate.  The logo and graphic are combined into one nameplate.  Further dimension is achieved through embossing and forming the aluminum.  Precise alignment on the final product is achieved through a placement mask and a pressure sensitive adhesive.

NECODome is an option for creating plastic nameplates with individual letters.  This process involves a layering of materials to create a dimensional graphic.  The result is a flexible nameplate with a flat back that can be applied to a contoured surface.  NECODome nameplates are available in different thicknesses and hardnesses.  The letters can be softly rounded or flat. 

The NECODome Zeltiq nameplate has the look of a brushed metal.  The softly rounded letters compliment the flowing script.  A placement mask and pressure sensitive adhesive are used for placement on the final product.

Yamaha uses the NECODome process to create a sharp chrome look for their brand.  The nameplate stands up to exterior specifications and is complementary to the wide variety of colors it may be applied to.

Nameplates made up of individual letters mean there isn't the need to color key the background of your nameplate to the final product.  This can reduce the amount of part numbers required to be kept in inventory.  This option also eliminates the need for a bridge between letters or islands which can detract from the overall appearance of your brand.