Identity Solutions

process
Screen printed texture on aluminum

application
Harley-Davidson Fuel Cap Cover

challenge
• Duplicate milled surface created in early prototypes

solution
Early modeling of the fuel cap cover insert was done with a mill.  Harley-Davidson designers wanted to keep the fine milled lines in the prototype logo on the production version of the insert.  Northern Engraving designers developed a subtle line pattern which uses a screen printed texture to duplicate the milled look.  The texture is applied in the silver area of the insert contrasting with the matte black background.  It is interesting to see a second version of the insert printed with a black logo on bright aluminum. 

process
NovaTrim

application
Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

challenge
• Hammered look on aluminum

solution
This Screamin' Eagle aluminum trim features an embossed texture which creates a hammered metal look.  Harley-Davidson designers challenged Northern Engraving with duplicating the look of hammered metal on aluminum trim.  Our engineers used the Nova Trim process to achieve the effect.

The Nova Trim process integrates texture into aluminum mechanically creating dimensional effects.  It can be combined with traditional processes such as printing, diamond cutting and mechanical finishes to add elegance and dimension to aluminum trim. The resulting trim has texture built right into the aluminum substrate for an authentic metal look.

solution
Northern Engraving introduced the ability to combine the decorative quality of aluminum with the functional deadfront and backlit properties of polycarbonate. Our expertise in decorating aluminum and polycarbonate substrates creates a premium look.  The aluminum on this speedometer is spun so that highlights radiate from the center of the metal dial.  Major gradations are highlighted with embossed details.  The look is carried across a series of gauge faces. 

application
Harley-Davidson Motorcycle

challenge
• Rugged, worn look for nameplate to be applied
to a contoured surface
• Alternative to zinc die-cast

solution
Our designer skillfully combined hand-rendering with graphics software to produce a custom finish that gives a worn and rugged appearance. Northern Engraving’s tool engineering knowledge developed the part to conform to the contour of the motorcycle tank.