Let’s Talk 800-528-4058
Get Quote › Get Samples ›

Everything You Need to Know about Anodized Aluminum Blanks for Labels and Tags

Free Label Samples
Get Custom Label Quote
Alumamark anodized labels

Key Takeaways

  • Anodized aluminum as the preferred choice for labels and tags due to its lightweight, durability, and affordability, especially in hazardous environments.
  • With options like foil and rigid anodized aluminum labels, companies can tailor their choices based on surface needs, whether for flat or flexible applications.
  • Corporations accumulate a large volume of assets as their business grows, and employees often need to find specific items in order to do their jobs. When it comes to equipment labels and tags, anodized aluminum blanks are frequently a popular choice, due to their light weight, affordable price, and durability.

    Enterprises have a number of choices for their label material. Metal is often selected over alternatives, such as plastic, when they need sturdy markers that will hold up under hazardous conditions. Aluminum is a popular option because of its pliable nature, high availability and low cost, and anodized aluminum adds extra protection for hazardous environments.

    Anodized aluminum nameplate

    What is Anodization?

    Anodized aluminum is produced by continuously exposing a sheet of aluminum to multiple electrolytic chemicals and then introducing a current to trigger a reaction, enabling oxidation to take place. The process continues until the metal sheet creates a protective and tough film on its surface. The oxidized layer in the aluminum sheet adds to the original sheet’s robustness and strength and provides additional benefits, such as unmatched anti-rust ability.

    Want a FREE Manufacturer’s Guide to Metal Labeling?

    Click the button below to receive a free PDF of our Manufacturer’s Guide to Metal Labeling, which contains the benefits, options, and key tips of product labelling for manufacturers.
    Get The Guide ›

    Foil or Rigid Anodized Aluminum?

    Companies have two anodized aluminum choices, and their equipment surface needs will determine which is best. In many cases, tags are affixed to a flat surface, while flexibility is often needed when affixed to products or equipment, like piping. Anodized aluminum blank labels and tags are available in pliable Foil Anodized Aluminum labels for the former use case, and Rigid Anodized Aluminum blank labels for the latter.

    Foil Anodized Aluminum Blank Labels

    These labels have a thin surface, and are available in .003″, .005″ and .008″ thicknesses. They are designed to provide a flexible material option, and can be used where equipment may have unusual shapes.

    These strong and lightweight markers work well in nearly any indoor application, as well as industrial applications where abrasives may be present. Foil anodized aluminum labels are available as blanks to mark on-site, or with pre-printed information.

    Rigid Anodized Aluminum blank labels

    These sturdy and durable labels are built for situations where tags are needed in harsh environments (for example, where abrasives are present) and are available in .012″ to .125″ thicknesses. Rigid anodized aluminum labels provide greater impact resistance than foil, and are therefore better able to withstand bumps and knocks.

    Anodized aluminum rigid labels and tags are a popular option for asset tracking and product identification labels, property ID tags, instructional labels, safety and warning labels, schematic diagrams, and machine data labels.

    Blank anodized labels

    A Durable Material

    Many businesses operate in conditions far removed from a cozy, high rise office building, and industrial equipment is found in manufacturing plants, warehouses, power plants, on ships, at marinas, and in the wild. As a result, corporations need materials that provide resistance to weather, abrasion, corrosion, chemicals, and solvents.

    Also, user designed high-contrast graphics are sealed beneath an anodic layer of aluminum, which protects the surface and preserves the integrity of its graphics. Consequently, anodized aluminum is durable, and can last 10 years or more in even the harshest conditions.

    Design Flexibility

    Every company has different label requirements, and the more flexible the material options, the more likely it will meet the customers’ expectations. This flexibility is just one reason why anodized aluminum is so popular.

    The purchasing decision often starts with color choice, and customers have many with this material. Anodized aluminum blank labels and tags are an ideal choice for on-site marking using YAG or fiber lasers, or engraving processes. Backgrounds are available in black or a variety of colors and tags are sealed beneath a durable anodic layer, an option that offers high contrast and excellent readability.

    Adhesion Options

    Anodized aluminum’s flexibility also extends to its attachment options, as customers can use adhesives and/or holes for mechanical attachment. Anodized aluminum creates labels that are extremely thin yet still feature high surface strength, while foil labels can also be attached to uneven surfaces and curved equipment, such as pipes and cables. Since these aluminum stickers also use a high-performance, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive, they are difficult to remove, an important consideration for security labels and tags.

    Low Cost

    Aluminum is one of the sturdiest and longest lasting materials available, and can also be one of the least expensive. This combination makes the metal a very popular selection.

    Companies have many material choices, and anodized aluminum has become popular thanks to its flexibility, durability, and economics. As a result, it is found in a wide range of industries and sectors: manufacturing, energy, warehouse, and even the military. From your office and conference room to your factory floor and warehouse, regardless of your business, anodized aluminum can provide the labels and tags you need.

    Implementing Anodized Aluminum Labels and Tags Into Your Workplace

    Implementing anodized aluminum tags and labels in an organization involves several key steps to ensure effective usage and integration into existing processes.

    1. Assess the organization’s specific needs and requirements for labeling equipment, products, or assets. Determine the types of surfaces where the labels will be affixed and the environmental conditions they will endure.
    2. Select the appropriate type of anodized aluminum labels based on the application. For instance, choose between foil anodized aluminum for flexibility or rigid anodized aluminum for durability in harsh environments. Consider the thickness and size of the labels based on visibility and space constraints.
    3. Establish a labeling system and protocol. This includes deciding on the information to be included on the labels, such as serial numbers, safety warnings, or instructional messages. Standardize labeling formats and ensure consistency across all labeled items.
    4. Train employees on the proper application and maintenance of anodized aluminum labels. Provide guidance on how to affix the labels securely to surfaces and how to care for them to ensure longevity.
    5. Integrate the use of anodized aluminum labels into existing inventory or asset management systems. Incorporate labeling processes into workflow procedures to streamline operations and ensure accurate tracking and identification of assets.
    6. Regularly monitor the condition of the labels and replace any damaged or worn ones promptly. Periodically review and update labeling standards and procedures to adapt to changing organizational needs.

    By following these steps, an organization can effectively implement anodized aluminum tags and labels to enhance asset management, safety, and efficiency across various operations.

    Need advice on choosing the right labels and tags for your business? Call us today at 800-528-4058 or order your free sample kit to see the difference for yourself.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Questions about the article? Let us help!

    Our sales engineers are experts in automatic asset tracking, tagging and identification,a nd can answer all your questions. Get in touch now.

    Lets Talk ›

    Create The Ideal Solution For Your Product Identification Needs

    If you’re having trouble finding the ideal identification solution for your project or application, build it with Metalphoto of Cincinnati. Talk with our experienced sales engineers today.
    Let’s Talk ›
    Want a FREE Guide to Metal Labeling for Manufacturers?

    Enter your information and get a free guide that will give you a detailed overview of metal labeling, its advantages over alternative label materials, and all the best practices for using metal labels in your own business or organization.

    No Thanks
    Thank You!
    Download Your Free Guide Below!
    Click the button to access a PDF version of the guide that you can download to your device:
    If you have any pressing questions or need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out and Contact Us Now or call 800-528-4058.