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

Key Takeaway

  • MIL-DTL-15024F provides standardized requirements for nameplates, placards, and identification tags used in demanding environments, ensuring critical information remains legible and durable under extreme conditions.
  • Ever wondered how military equipment maintains consistent, reliable labeling—even after braving extreme heat, subzero cold, or corrosive environments? That’s where MIL-DTL-15024F comes into play.

    This stringent military specification defines the design, performance, and durability requirements for identification plates, bands, and tags used across a wide array of defense applications. In other words, it’s the ultimate guide to ensuring that critical information remains legible and intact in the toughest conditions imaginable.

    Whether you’re a procurement specialist, an engineering manager, or simply curious about how these highly regulated markings work, buckle up. This article will take you on a deep dive into MIL-DTL-15024F—covering everything you need to know about the standard that helps keep our troops and their equipment safe, organized, and mission-ready.

    What is MIL-DTL-15024F?

    MIL-DTL-15024F specifications

    MIL-DTL-15024F is a performance standard that explains the acceptable physical traits of identification devices such as plates, tags, and bands used to identify equipment.

    What types of ID devices does MIL-DTL-15024F cover?

    • Etched or chemically-engraved plate
    • Engraved plate
    • Stamped plate
    • Cast plate
    • Screen or litho print plate
    • Laminated plate
    • Adhesive-backed plate
    • Photosensitive plate (Type H)
    • Cable band
    • Cable band (heat shrinkable)
    • Laser-generated plate

    Intended Use for ID Devices

    The plates, tags, and bands are intended to identify electrical, electronic, or mechanical equipment. Also, when required for the installation, use, operation, or maintenance of equipment items.

    What Must the Acquisition Documents Specify?

    When acquiring identification devices for military or government use, it is essential that acquisition documents (such as contracts, statements of work, or purchase descriptions) contain detailed specifications to ensure compliance with standards and interoperability.

    The following elements should be clearly addressed:

    Type of Identification Device
    Specify the exact type of identification device required, such as a UID (Unique Identification) label, RFID tag, barcode label, or data matrix code. Indicate whether it should be metallic, non-metallic, flexible, rigid, etc., based on the application and environment.

    Issue of DoDISS to be Cited in Solicitation
    Indicate the applicable issue of the Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards (DoDISS) that governs the identification device. This ensures consistency with current military standards and regulations at the time of procurement.

    Required Marking Information, Format, and Redundancy
    Define the specific data to be marked on the device (e.g., serial number, part number, manufacturer code), the format in which this data must be presented (e.g., linear barcode, 2D data matrix), and whether redundant marking (e.g., human-readable alongside machine-readable formats) is required for verification and reliability.

    Color of Filler
    If the identification device includes engraved or etched features filled with a contrasting color for visibility, specify the required color of the filler material. This can affect legibility and compliance with visibility standards.

    Color Style
    Clarify whether the identification device should have a specific color scheme or style (e.g., black text on white background, subdued colors for tactical equipment) to meet aesthetic, functional, or camouflage needs.

    Specific Size of UID Device
    Provide the precise dimensions (length, width, height) of the UID device. This is particularly important when the tag or label must fit within a designated area on the asset or equipment.

    Thickness of Plates
    For plate-style identification devices (typically metal or rigid plastic), specify the minimum and/or maximum thickness required to ensure durability and compatibility with mounting methods.

    Mounting Provisions
    Detail how the identification device must be affixed to the item—such as with adhesive backing, rivets, screws, or welding. Include requirements for permanence, environmental resistance, and location on the item.

    Whether Testing is Required
    State whether the devices must undergo testing for compliance (e.g., environmental resistance, abrasion, readability after exposure). If so, list the specific tests and standards to be met.

    Criteria for Lot Acceptance or Rejection
    Define the criteria by which a lot of identification devices will be accepted or rejected during inspection. This could include sample size, acceptable defect levels, testing thresholds, and documentation required for acceptance.

    Packaging Requirements
    Specify how the identification devices should be packaged for shipment and storage. This includes protective materials, labeling of packages, quantities per package, and any special handling requirements (e.g., anti-static bags, cleanroom conditions).

      Which Materials Should Be Used?

      ID devices are to be made of materials that cannot be altered by fungus and can withstand the environmental and cleaning conditions associated to the part in which it’s attached.

      Examples of Allowed Materials

      • Brass (commercial)
      • Bronze
      • Corrosion-resistant steel
      • Aluminum alloy
      • Plastic

      Can recycled materials be used?

      Recycled, recovered, or environmentally-friendly materials may be used as long as they meet or exceed operational and maintenance requirements.

      What are Recognized Defects?

      The following are considered major defects of UIDs and associated materials:

      • The finish is blistered, flaked, peeled, chipped, cracked, softened, or not as specified
      • The finish is burred, silvered, splintered, split, delaminated, or poses threat of injury
      • The UID is of incorrect color
      • The UID is illegible
      • The related inscription or description does not conform to the specification sheet or contract requirements
      • The related materials are not as specified
      • The dimensions do not meet specified requirements.

      Applicable Testing

      Samples of any type can be selected and subjected to applicable tests. A marked item is considered a unit of product. If any sample fails a test, the lot from which the sample was taken shall be rejected.

      Example of a Test

      A deterioration test looks for evidence of flaking, peeling, dissolving, distorting, softening, the presence of oxidation, discoloration, or visible presence of fungus. Presence of any of the described constitutes a failure to meet standards.

      A slight discoloration or fading is permissible if it does not influence the legibility of the UID.

      Other Types of Tests

      • Temperature
      • Moisture resistance
      • Solvent resistance
      • Salt spray
      • Weather
      • Flammability
      • Abrasion resistance
      • Cleaning resistance
      • Thermal shock
      • Gloss
      • Fungus

      Final Thoughts on MIL-DTL-15024F

      MIL-DTL-15024F underscores the critical importance of reliable identification and labeling in mission-critical environments. By adhering to this specification, you’re ensuring that vital information remains accessible and intact—no matter how hostile the conditions—thereby enhancing safety, efficiency, and overall operational readiness.

      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 Industrial Control Panel Design Guide?

      Enter your information and get a free guide of the key design considerations applicable to industrial control panel design, including schematics, relevant regulatory standards, and design considerations relating to every facet of effective control panel design for industrial equipment and machinery.

      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.