Nameplate Blog

Pierced openings in aluminum and stainless steel nameplates, labels and dials typically serve a functional purpose.  The pierced holes are often round and used for attachment purposes.  Pierced holes are used for riveting or the centerpost of a gauge.  What happens when you think beyond the typical use of this functional process?

Aluminum Hang Tags

Pierced openings aren't limited to being round or square.  These metal hang tags feature a detailed figure pierced in the aluminum.  Thick aluminum is printed on both sides creating a unique custom tag. 

The metal tags are one example of thinking beyond the typical use of materials and processes used in product branding.  What other examples come to mind?  How might you use pierced openings in a decorative or unexpected way?

Request samples of metal hang tags or pierced openings to begin exploring the options available to you.

Spun Aluminum Nameplates

Spin is added to aluminum nameplates to create natural movement.  The mechanical finish reflects light creating natural highlights and shadows in the metal.  The most typical application of the spin process is to use it in the background of a round nameplate or dial. 

A spin doesn't need to be limited to the background of circular nameplates and dials.  The subtle movement created with spin can be used in other ways to create unique looks on nameplates.  This article will cover four applications for the spin process on nameplates. 

Options for Integrating Spin into Nameplates

1. Spin background of a round dial:
2. Spin background of an oval or square nameplate:
3. Spin graphics:
4. Spin accent area or logo:

Spin Background of Round Nameplates

Spin is a mechanical process which abrades the surface of the metal.  A printed mask can be used to apply spin selectively leaving areas of bright aluminum.  In addition, transparent tints of color are available to be printed on spin in a full range of colors.

Spin Background of Oval Nameplate or Other Shapes

Spin is not limited to application on circular parts.  Very interesting results can be achieved when applying a spin to an oval, square or triangle.

Spin Graphics

Using spin in small letters and borders disguises the spin.  The graphics take on an almost holographic effect.  When combined with embossing, this is an attractive alternative to diamond cutting.

Spin Accent Area or Logo

The natural instinct is to place a spin in the center of a nameplate.  Placing the spin off center creates unique looks.  The off center spin might be used as a background or to highlight a logo.

What are some of your favorite spun nameplates?  What makes them stand out in your mind? 

Request samples of spun nameplates to begin exploring the options available to you in nameplate design.

In-mold components may be used to incorporate functional graphics, brand names and logos into plastic components.  The In-mold Decoration (IMD) process may also be used for purely decorative components or trim.

In-mold Process for Product Identification

The Kenmore nameplate uses the in-mold decoration process to create a nameplate with durable graphics integrated into a dimensional product branding solution.  No adhesive is needed for assembly since the part is designed to snap fit.  The nameplate is manufactured in three colorways.  Overlay graphics are modified prior to insertion in the mold.  Colored resin is injected into the mold encapsulating the graphics.

Request samples of nameplates and trim which use the in-mold decoration process to begin exploring the options available to you in product design.

Flexible Nameplate and Label Tooling

Nameplates and labels printed on flexible plastic substrates offer a wide range options in product branding.  Following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the tooling of plastic nameplates. 

Q) What tolerances do you hold in tooling for plastic nameplates?

A) Most plastic nameplate jobs are manufactured with steel rule dies.  Hard tooling is available for more complex forms and tighter tolerances.  Standard tooling tolerances are:

Q) Do you offer prototype tooling?

A) Yes. Depending on the complexity of the part, we offer prototype parts via:

Q) What is your standard nameplate tool timing on plastic?

A) Standard tooling lead time is three to four weeks for steel rule dies and four to six weeks for hard tools.  This may vary slightly depending on complexity of part, availability of materials and work load.  We understand there are cases where we need to rush an order - we will do our utmost to meet those requests.

Q) Do you offer stock dies for plastic substrates?

A)  We suggest plotter cutting for low volume jobs as an alternative to stock dies.  This is a cost effective option since tooling is not required.  Plotter cutting is best suited to substrates .010" or less in thickness.

This is the second article in a series of posts featuring notes from my co-workers on their favorite nameplate.  Northern Engraving employees, see the results of our daily efforts in our automobiles, our homes and on the retail floor.  It gives us a sense of pride to see our part in a diverse range of products sold around the world.  The domed nameplate that our guest blogger, Kevin Rink, writes about is one example.  

Guest Blogger

		Kevin Rink Process Chemist Kevin works in the Northern Engraving Central Lab.  He is responsible for research and development of new inks and coatings.
As an owner of Mathews products, I know they are made from the best materials, are rated very high, and perform well under extreme conditions.  They also need to identify and protect their product with a durable long lasting badge such as the Mathews Genesis.  This decorative badge combines a "weathered" brushed aluminum look with functionality obtained by the domed material.  The domed material acts as a magnifying glass, which adds clarity and protection to the Mathews name for many years.  The name stands out and compliments the finished product.   The Mathews name appears to float in the three dimensional matrix.  This badge can handle the rugged conditions experienced in both interior and exterior environments, while maintaining an elegance worthy of the Mathews name.  The graphics, while very crisp and clear, seem to flow with the geometry of the badge, thus providing more depth to the entire logo.  This badge is produced in such a way that it will blend in and yet stand out on the finished product.  In a competitive international market, one needs to broadcast yet preserve their name for others to recognize for the life of the product.

Product Branding

When you need an orthopedic knee brace, you look for a quality brace that provides protection and support.  When an orthopedic knee brace manufacturer needs a nameplate, they look for branding that represents the quality and innovation their brand stands for.

Aluminum Nameplates and Domed Labels

DonJoy nameplates use both aluminum and plastic substrates to represent the quality their brand stands for.  Doming, engine turn, printed patterns and texture are used to create distinctly different nameplates for various products.  Consistent use of the logo ties the nameplates together for brand recognition.

How would you use nameplates across a series of products?  One common nameplate for all?  Or adapt the nameplate to the product?

Request nameplate samples to begin exploring the options available to you in product branding. 

A wide range of adhesives are available in nameplate manufacturing.  Our customer service representatives are available to help walk you through your options.  In addition, here is a listing of some of the most frequently asked questions about metal and plastic nameplate adhesives.

Q) What type of adhesive do I need for my nameplate?

A) Adhesive recommendations are made based on the type of substrate the nameplate is applied to and the specs the bond needs to meet.  We can help with recommendations providing technical data sheets and testing as needed.

Q) Do you offer 3M^TM adhesives?

A) Yes.  We also offer Necal adhesives as cost effective alternative to 3M^TM adhesives.  You make the choice.  We can provide you with suggested alternatives and technical data sheets to support our recommendations.

Q) Can I have a selective adhesive on my nameplate?

A) Yes.  Selective adhesive can be applied through screen printing or as an assembled die cut piece.  Screen printed adhesives are applied in a very thin layer and allow tighter control of tolerance.  Die cut adhesives is appropriate for thicker adhesives and foam adhesives. 

Q) Can you supply parts with a tab for assistance in removal of the adhesive liner?

A) Yes.  There are several tab options available depending on your needs.  We will work with you recommending solutions to assist you in assembly of your nameplate to your product. 

Stamping is a broad manufacturing term used to cover blanking, embossing, forming and punching of sheet metal for nameplates and labels.  Graphic options range from a simple emboss or deboss to a multi-level emboss.  Our engineers can work with you to answer questions specific to your design.  Some of the most frequently asked questions regarding tooling for metal nameplates are listed below. 

Q) What options do I have for embossing my logo in aluminum?

A) We offer etch emboss and cut emboss tools.  Etch emboss tools are a more cost effective option with an emboss height of .006".  The depth of emboss for a cut emboss tool is dependent on the thickness of the substrate and ranges from .012"-.032". 

Q) What is a rolled edge?

A)  Rolling the outside edge of a nameplate turns the edge down so the silver edge is minimized.

Q) How can I hide the raw edge of aluminum on my nameplate?

A) There are several options available for hiding the exposed silver edge of a nameplate.  We will work with you defining a solution that meets your needs in the most cost effective manner available.

Q) Do you offer nameplate prototype tooling?

A) Yes.  Depending on the complexity of your part and your needs (visual review or fit and function) we have several options ranging from hand filing to prototype tooling to pre-production tooling. 

Q) What is your standard nameplate tool timing on metal?

A) Standard tooling lead time is four to five weeks for blanking dies and five to six weeks for emboss tools.  This may vary slightly depending on complexity of part, availability of materials and work load.  We understand there are cases where we need to rush an order - we will do our utmost to meet those requests.

Q) Do you offer stock dies for metal substrates?

A) Yes.  Stock dies are a cost effective option for your nameplate.  We can recommend options available to you. 

Putting it all Together

The Nameplate Blog focuses on options in creating nameplates and labels.  I would like to challenge you to think beyond creating only a nameplate to using aluminum or plastic to create a decorative trim piece which integrates the nameplate into the design.

Aluminum trim increases the perceived value or quality of consumer products, appliances and automobile interiors.  Metal and plastic overlays serve a functional and decorative purpose typically integrating graphics on an accent finish. 

Combining your nameplate or brand into aluminum trim and graphic overlays is a cost effective option which minimizes assembly and number of parts.  This article explores some of the options available to you when integrating a nameplate into a larger trim piece.

Options

1. Print / Selective Decoration: mechanical finishes, color and gloss applied selectively
2. Emboss Letters: individual letters or logos embossed and selectively decorated
3. Emboss Border: square, oval, circle or custom shape defined with an embossed border
4. Emboss Pad: entire nameplate embossed to stand out from trim
5. Doming: selective lens applied to highlight a logo
6. Plastic: many of the options available on metal can used on plastic trim 

Print / Selective Decoration

Selectively decorating aluminum creates a contrast between your logo and the background finish.  Bright aluminum graphics are often used.  Other options include brushing, engine stripe or selective color.  The interior trim for the Cadillac Escalade uses selective decoration to incorporate the Cadillac logo into the passenger dash panel (instrument panel) trim.

Emboss Letters

Combining selective decoration with embossed letters further enhances the illusion of a separate nameplate applied to the trim.  Tight registration between printing and embossing is key to the success of this option.  This option is illustrated in the Dell Lattitude trim which features an embossed metallic silver logo against a screen printed pattern in the background.   

Emboss Border

Embossing a border around your logo gives gives you additional area to decorate selectively.  The larger area can be used to draw more attention or focus to your brand.  This option is also a good fit when the logo involves small or intricate details.  Ranger boats places their logo front and center on their overlay.

Emboss Pad

Embossing a pad is similar to embossing a border.  Instead, the entire logo with its background shape is embossed as a pad.  Graphics can be embossed or debossed (recessed) on the pad.  Many logos already have a background shape (circle, oval etc.) built into their design.  The Tesla Motors nameplate features an embossed logo combined with a printed halftone to further give the illusion of being two separate parts.

Doming

When doming is applied selectively to an overlay, it creates an attention getting look.  A dam is embossed to control and stop liquid polyurethane when it is applied to the trim.  The dome is cured into a crystal cure lens as shown on the aluminum control panel manufactured for Crown.

Plastic

All of the options for incorporating nameplates into trim are also available on plastic substrates.  The Whirlpool graphic overlay is one example incorporating an embossed pad (the Whirlpool oval) into an overlay.  The Whirlpool logo is printed to register to the embossing.

What applications come to mind for a trim piece which incorporates a nameplate into the design?  Are there other examples that come to mind? 

Request samples of trim, overlays and nameplates to begin putting it all together for your next project.