Identity Solutions

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.

process
Aluminum and plastic medallions

application
Ping Golf Club

challenge
• Coordinate brand across aluminum and polycarbonate
• Chrome effect on plastic
• Multiple shaped parts with emboss for program

solution
Our designers worked with Ping exploring decorative options for the aluminum medallion.  Engine turn, a circular brush, was chosen for the eye-catching effect.  The success of the program was dependent on Northern Engraving's Tool Engineers working closely with Program Management to facilitate a timely launch.  Color matching was coordinated internally across both substrates.  In addition, an ink suitable for in-mold was used to achieve the chrome effect on plastic.  

See for yourself the engine turn detail on aluminum and the chrome effect on the formed plastic nameplate by requesting samples.

process
Aluminum in-mold and brushed aluminum

application
Whirlpool Refrigerator

challenge
· Upgrade overall look of product by replacing plastic trim with metal
· Match stainless steel finish on aluminum

solution
Aluminum in-mold was required on the trim piece to maintain the sharp edges and lines of the design. The stainless steel look was achieved with a coarse brush and transparent tint of color on aluminum. The aluminum trim continues the contemporary look and feel of stainless steel across the refrigerator. Ability to completely change the look economically by updating the finish allows the same trim piece to be used across different models.

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.